Moving house can be argued as one of life’s most stressful events. However, with careful planning and our top 10 money saving tips for moving house, it can be an easy process rather than a stress-inducing ordeal. The key to a smooth house move lies in reducing unexpected costly surprises. Here at Macro Removals, we understand this all too well. We’ve written this blog to help guide you with practical and cost-effective strategies to ensure your journey from old house to new is as seamless and affordable as possible.
The Importance of Planning
Planning is the cornerstone of a successful and budget-friendly house move and it’s your preparedness that truly pays off. You can foresee potential hiccups by setting out a clear plan and taking appropriate measures to counteract them. It helps you anticipate the costs involved and align them with your budget to prevent any wallet-shocking surprises. Planning well also gives you ample time to compare removal services, settle administrative tasks, and organise your belongings, leading to a smoother, cost-effective move.
1. De-clutter & Sell Unwanted Items
We tend to accumulate a variety of items over the years and some of which we don’t use or need anymore. Before the big move, take some time to go through your belongings and de-clutter. You can sell items you no longer need or use – it’s a great way to make some extra money and save on potential storage costs. Remember, the fewer items you need to pack and move, the more time and money you save. It’s a win-win situation having a tidier house and a heavier wallet.
2. Get Multiple Quotes
Not all removal companies are created equal, and costs can vary dramatically. As a savvy mover, you should shop around and get quotes from multiple firms. Explain your specific needs clearly, as intricate details can affect the final price. Be sure to compare not just the costs, but also the services included, customer reviews, and company reputation. This will help you avoid hidden costs and ensure you choose a removal company that offers the best value for your money. Remember, the cheapest quote might not always provide the best service, so balance cost-effectiveness with quality.
3. Choose the Right Time to Move
Did you know that the timing of your move can significantly impact costs and this is particularly in the case of office removals? Peak times such as weekends, school holidays, or the beginning and end of the month are usually busier and more expensive. Schedule your move during a weekday or mid-month when demand is lower and this flexibility can lead to substantial savings. On top of this, you’ll likely get a wider choice of dates and times, so you can select a slot that’s most convenient for your home move or your business operations.
4. DIY or Hiring Professionals
A crucial budget decision you’ll need to make when moving house is whether to choose the DIY route or hire professionals. A man with a van service might be the best cost-effective solution If you’re moving within the same city or you don’t have many large or fragile items. However, for bigger full houses or flat moves, a professional removal company will be the better choice. They can often save you time and effort (even money) in the long run due to their expertise and efficiency. Call around and find out what services are on offer and always carefully weigh up the pros and cons of each approach.
5. Packing Smart
You can save a considerable amount of money if you’re creative with your packing solutions. Instead of going all out and purchasing expensive new packing materials, consider using what you already have at home. Old newspapers, magazines, and even clothes can be used to wrap and protect fragile items. Sturdy containers, suitcases, and baskets can serve as excellent alternatives to cardboard boxes but only use these items for non-fragile items. Failing this, try to source them second-hand or borrow from friends or family who have recently moved. The goal is to use as few resources as possible, minimising waste (think of the environment) while also keeping your moving costs down.
6. Insuring Your Belongings
The stress of moving house often comes from worrying about your belongings during transit and if they are damaged. Accidents can happen and that means it’s important to insure your possessions. Most removal companies offer insurance but not insurance policies are created equal. When inquiring, ask whether the insurance policy will replace the full value of lost or damaged items or only a fraction of the cost. You might want to consider getting additional coverage if you’re moving valuable or irreplaceable items. Investing in appropriate insurance can save you money in the long run and provide peace of mind during this life-changing event.
7. Utilities & Address Change
Having moving house checklists are essential for a smooth move or problems can quickly mount. Make a list of your utility companies and notify them about your move far in advance. These could include water, gas, electricity, broadband and other providers.
8. Recycle Packing Materials
In the process of moving, you’ll probably need to dismantle some furniture and this can reveal a host of potential packing materials. For example, drawers removed from desks or dressers can be used as moving boxes. Blankets or towels can be used for wrapping delicate items. Being innovative with available resources not only saves you money on packing materials but is also environmentally friendly. You should consider giving away or recycling your used packing materials rather than disposing of them once you’ve moved and unpacked. You’ll be helping others save on their moving costs and reduce waste at the same time.
9. Be Ready for the Movers
Efficiency is a key factor to a cost-effective move. You should be fully prepared when the removal team arrives. This means everything is packed, boxes are labelled, and ready to be loaded onto the truck or van. Any delay in this process might extend the time required for the move and could potentially increase the cost if you’re paying by the hour. You should ensure all pathways are clear of obstacles to facilitate smooth movement. If the removal team can operate without hindrance, the time taken (and thus the money spent) can be significantly reduced.
10. Prepare a Budget
Preparing a detailed budget is a must and this should cover all cost costs. From packing materials, removal company fees, and possible storage to unplanned expenses such as refreshments or last-minute supplies, it can really add up! This budget will help to keep track of your spending to ensure that the cost of the move doesn’t spiral out of control. It can happen! It’s also a good idea to factor in after-move expenses such as deep cleaning and new furniture.
Wrapping Up
Moving house doesn’t have to be a financially challenging event and you can make it both affordable and less stressful by implementing the ten cost-saving tips that we’ve discussed. Remember that every pound saved in this process is a pound that can be put towards turning your new house into a home.
We’re here to help you every step of the way when you’re ready to make your move. We’re just a phone call or email away from any advice or services you need for the big day. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a personalised quote. Let’s start this journey together!
