Even short distance moves can get expensive and time-consuming, but they don’t have to be. Here are some tips from moving services in Minneapolis-St Paul for making your across-town move easier:
Move Fewer Items
Moving is a great opportunity to downsize and declutter. Try on items in your closet and get rid of items that don’t fit or that you don’t wear anymore. Decide whether it’s worth it to move that old couch, or whether you’ll replace it after you’ve moved. If you want to sell your items, you can hold a yard sale or use a website or app. Consignment shops may be interested in items of used clothing. If you plan to donate, make sure that you keep a record of what you donated; you may be able to deduct your donation from your taxes. Some organizations will even pick up donations for you! Make sure to ask for a donation receipt.
Look for Free Boxes
You don’t have to dumpster dive to find free moving boxes. Check sites like Craigslist and local for sale groups on social media. Many people will offer their boxes for free after they move. U-Haul offers an exchange for boxes, among other things. Check to see if other moving companies have similar programs.
If you choose to look for your boxes in an alley or dumpster, use caution. Be aware of local laws, be aware of your surroundings, and be careful only to take boxes from designated cardboard dumpsters. Remember that you don’t know what might have encountered dumpster boxes, and the last thing you want at your new home is to track in insects and their eggs.
Get Creative with Packing Materials
You can save space and avoid spending money on things like tissue paper and bubble wrap if you pack your fragile items using linens or seldom used items of clothing. For example, if you’re moving in July you might pack your glassware in your wool socks and mittens.
Ask About Reimbursements
If you’re moving for work, even a short distance, check to see if your employer offers reimbursement or a bonus for relocation costs.
Compare Options and Shop Around
Is it less expensive to DIY move, rent a truck, or hire movers? There are many factors to consider. While it’s often less expensive in the short-term to move by yourself, consider the value of your time and health. If moving your own sofa means a day off of work and a trip to the chiropractor, it may not be the most economical after all.
If your move is time-sensitive, you may not want to rent a truck; companies often oversell their truck rentals, which could leave you stranded. Renting a truck also leaves you open to some liabilities.
Hiring movers are often the most expensive option, but if you compare quotes you can still get a good deal. Make sure to ask about things like insurance and additional charges.
Hopefully these tips help you save some money on your upcoming move. Don’t forget – you can easily comparison shop for movers in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area through the Cheap Movers Minneapolis platform!