Guest Post provided by Wendy at Gimmie Freebies
As someone who moved 13 times in 9 years, I learned a thing or two about moving. First and foremost, I learned that I hate moving with a passion. Second, I learned how incredibly expensive it can be to move. Not only do you have the obvious moving expenses, you may have extra fees to turn on utilities and services, and there are all the little things – like how your sectional sofa no longer fits in your living room.
But don’t dismay, there are always ways to save money! I’ve included some tips, but please share in the comments section if you have any other ideas.
Savings
I’m not sure what law of nature it is, but a moving always seems makes the old place look worse and the new place look like it’s missing something. Whether it’s repairing a wall, painting a room, or just getting a different trash can – it’s always something. So, the beloved big box stores want to give you a little house warming gift in the way of savings.
- Home Depot moving – get a 10% savings coupon
- Lowe’s moving – get a 10% savings coupon via email
- TIP: Home Depot and Lowe’s take each others’ coupons!
Change of Address
You can also pick up a “Moving” pack from your local post office which contains a 10% coupon for Lowe’s and lots of other savings offers. Or, if you prefer, you can fill out a change of address online. This link also includes over $500 in valuable coupons for moving, including savings on services such as television, phone and Internet.
Free Moving Boxes
Why pay for new boxes when you can get free boxes!? Many stores are more than happy to give away boxes so they don’t have to pay to dispose of them (or recycle). I’ve gotten moving boxes from Walmart (they stock shelves at night and have boxes available early the next morning in the Customer Service department). I’ve also found great boxes at electronic and music stores. And I’ve even had luck finding (and later giving away) moving boxes on Freecycle and/or Craigslist. You can also use both services to downsize before your move.
Totes
If you move often or don’t plan to unpack some of your belongings, you may want to consider buying Rubbermaid Totes as opposed to using cardboard boxes. There is an initial investment, but it’s worth it to protect your cherished keepsakes that you may not unpack right away. They’re also wonderful for storing seasonal and holiday items. They don’t have to be Rubbermaid brand, but do try to get something sturdy. The cheaper ones (and especially the “cute” clear plastic ones) don’t hold up as well and once they’re broken they’re worthless. That’s not saving anything.
Moving Truck Rental
U-Haul is probably the most widely known do-it-yourself moving service. When I moved cross country, I did a little digging to find that U-Haul will match competitor prices, and that saved me a fortune! I found a much cheaper rate at Budget Truck Rental, but went with U-Haul to get access to the bigger fleet and more locations. Most, if not all the larger rental companies will match prices. Start by gathering general prices from their websites or main phone numbers (listed below). Be sure to do a quick Google search to find any available coupon codes too. Then try talking to your local branch to have them price match their competition. You’ll be amazed how much you can save! Wait to book a reservation until you’ve talked to all of them at least once, and given them a chance to give you the best price. Once you’re locked in it’ll be harder to cancel and barter on the price.
If you’re going to need their storage facility, be sure to factor that into the final cost and make your decision accordingly.
And lastly, consider renting a trailer instead of a truck so you won’t get stuck paying mileage. Don’t be fooled by the price tag. Add to the cheap $19.95 per day, almost $1 per mile plus gas for that big ol’ load. Depending on how far you’re moving, you can be looking at several hundred dollars. Chances are it may be a lot cheaper to pay for a day with a trailer even if you have to make more than one trip.
U-Haul 1-800-GO-UHAUL (1-800-468-4285)
Budget 1-800-462-8343 sign up for email deals
Enterprise 1-888-736-8287
Penske 1-888-996-5415
Hertz 1-888-999-5500
Ryder 1-800-BY-RYDER (1-800-297-9337) – no one-way rentals
About Wendy :
I’m a work-at-home mom with two stepsons in their mid 20s, and one 5-year old girl. I’ve always been frugal and love to find ways to save money that help others as well as the environment. I founded GimmieFreebies to connect with others looking for freebies and deals.
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