It is possible to move and keep it affordable! You can save a lot by being flexible and looking for solutions. We help you stay on budget and reduce the stress involved in moving to a new home.
Recommended playlist for this article: In the boxes
Different types of moves
It’s important to understand what type of move you’re making because this has a direct impact on the costs involved. Determine your requirements so you can plan the services you’ll need and budget for them: number of movers, type of truck, special requests (like protecting fragile objects), travel costs, etc.
And don't forget to plan for your change of address!
Local move
Are you staying in the same city or near your old home? This type of residential move involves short distances and minimal travel time, which generally means lower costs.
Transportation fees (including truck rental) and labour will cost less than international moves or long-distance ones.
Long-distance move
Are you changing cities, regions or even countries? You’ll no doubt need more resources, be they financial, material or human. Try to minimize the number of things that must be moved and the amount of help you need, it’s time to purge! Ask your friends and family to give you a hand. If you need a truck, choose a daily rental.
Regardless of the type of move, it’s highly recommended to contact various moving companies if you decide to use professional movers. Get some quotes and compare them to get a lower price.
What’s the right time to move to save money?
What’s the best time for your big departure? Since the demand for moving services and rentals is highest in summer, the prices tend to go up. If possible, to save money, choose a moving date in the off-peak season which includes both fall and winter months[JL1] . You’ll be able to negotiate more. Compare the rates from different companies and look for promotions offered, especially on weekdays.
In other words, avoid June to September for your move if you can. Also avoid weekends, last days of the month and holidays.
Regardless of what you decide, plan ahead to organize every aspect of your move.
What are the costs to consider?
The cost of moving depends on several factors, including the type of move and the time of year. Here are the other factors to consider:
Dwelling size
The bigger your home is, the more time, equipment and people you’ll need, plus your final bill will be higher. Try to do as much as possible yourself before moving day. Dismantle furniture and clear it out of the way, pile boxes and secure packed items. Ask your friends and family for help.
Amount of stuff to box up
The number of items that must be transported and loaded/unloaded also affects the price. It’s advisable to sort your personal belongings, and give some away or sell them, before boxing everything up to take to your new place. Fewer things to carry and unpack means less work and less cost!
Additional requests
Have you thought of everything: transporting heavy items like appliances, wrapping individual items, getting moving supplies (bubble wrap, paper, boxes), dismantling cupboards, storing things, and renting a vehicle? Try to make do with what you have instead of paying extra for these items.
Hourly rates vs. package deals
Being well-informed gives you more power to negotiate. When you contact a moving team, ask what each of their packages includes, because policies may vary from one company to another.
Hourly rate
In this case, you’re paying only for the time you use. The difficulty is predicting how long that will be. Regardless, an hourly rate is usually the better deal for small moves as it’s the economical approach.
Package rate
This is the option to choose if you need to budget more accurately. The price is fixed and will reflect the estimate, unless you fail to mention some essential information when requesting a quote. Be honest. That way you’ll know the actual amount you need to pay and won’t face any unpleasant surprises.
5 tricks to find inexpensive movers
We can’t say it enough: don’t wait until the last minute to get quotes from movers. And use these tips:
1. Check the reviews
Check the reviews of former clients online to gauge the moving company’s reputation.
2. Pick another date
Be open to changing your moving date to get a lower price. For instance, take a day off from work and move on a weekday.
3. Compare offers
Check social media to see as many offers as you can and sniff out the best prices. You may happen upon a promotion.
4. Obtain several quotes
Request several quotes and mention all your needs.
5. Talk about your reality
Explain your budget and situation. These professionals are human beings, after all, like us.
Could friends or family also benefit from EspaceProprio’s expertise? Invite them to look at what we have to offer.
