More than 35 million Americans move each year. And summer seems to be the most popular season for moving. The kids are out of school which leaves more time for packing up the household, filling the moving truck and heading to a new home. Relocating to a new community can cost thousands of dollars-- even moving across town can be expensive. Consider these cost cutting steps for getting free or cheap help for your move.
Promise Friends Free Food
Food is a great motivator-- especially when you're asking friends and family to help you move. Promise them something tasty along with cold beverages in return for their muscles. It may not work as well as cold hard cash, but it's still a cheap way to reward friends for pitching in.
Use the Web to Recruit Cheap Labor
Use websites like Craigslist or iPhone apps like Zaarly to recruit cheap labor. Both are free and allow you to post want ads. Be up front about what you're willing to pay and keep in mind that it's best to hire people who are insured just in case there's an accident on your property. You can also get quotes from movers through HireaHelper.com. The website claims that their customers save an average of $3000 versus full-service movers.
Throw a Moving Party and Ask for Boxes
Friends of mine recently hosted a going away party. Instead of departing gifts they asked friends to bring boxes. They ended up with a huge stack of free materials for their move.
Consider Renting a Truck From a Home Improvement Store
If you're organized and only moving a short distance considering renting a truck from a home improvement store like Home Depot. They're affordable and may be more convenient than more traditional truck rental options.
Score Used Packing Materials
You will probably be amazed by the number of boxes your move will require. There's no reason why your boxes have to be brand new. Be kind to the planet and your wallet by purchasing used packing materials at a deep discount. You can even get them for free by asking at local retailers, grocery stores or recycling facilities. Check out what's available in your area through Boxquest.com and MovingBoxesMart.com.
Use Your Stuff to Protect Your Stuff
Don't waste money on bubble wrap or tissue. Instead use your towels, old clothes or bedding to protect your breakables. After all, it's all got to be moved anyway.
Got tips on how to save money when you move? Share them here, I'd love to hear from you!
4 Responses to “Moving? 6 Creative Ways to Cut Costs”
Offering food is always the best way to get friends to come over and help you out. Works like a charm.
Agreed! And more, I agree/offer to help friends move because, hey, we're friends and they'd do the same thing for me. But I always pay friends in pizza & GOOD beer (or soda) for helping me out... Way cheaper than hiring movers!
Helpful stuff especially since I just moved!
The girl holding the moving box in one of the pictures is really hot