It’s no secret that moving is expensive. Between hiring movers, renting a truck, and paying for all the necessary supplies, your average move can cost several thousand dollars. But what many people don’t know is that there are ways to reduce those costs – if you’re willing to get a little bit creative.
For example, did you know that you can often save money by moving during the off-season? Or by packing yourself? And did you know that you can save even more money by doing some of the work yourself?
If you’re looking to save money on your next move, keep reading. This article will outline several tips and tricks for reducing your moving costs, without sacrificing quality or convenience. So whether you’re hiring movers or doing it all yourself, read on for tips that will help keep your wallet happy.
1. Hiring a Professional Mover
The average cost to move a 3-bedroom house for a local move is $1,600, whereas a long-distance move exceeding 250 miles will be approximately $3,950. If you’re moving to another state where the distance surpasses 1,000 miles, then expect to pay around $7,800 for a 3-bedroom house.
2. Packing Materials
Another cost associated with moving a 3 bedroom house is the cost of packing materials. Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials can add up quickly. The average cost of packing materials for a 3 bedroom house is $200.
3. Storage Fees
If you need to store any of your belongings during the move, you will also incur storage fees. The average cost of storage for a 3 bedroom house is $100 per month.
4. Utility Transfer Fees
When you move to a new home, you will need to transfer your utilities into your name. Most utility companies charge a fee for this service, which can range from $25 to $50.
5. Cleaning Fees
Most landlords require that you have the home professionally cleaned before you move in. The average cost of professional cleaning for a 3 bedroom house is $200.
6. Change of Address Fees
There are also several fees associated with changing your address when you move. The United States Postal Service charges $1 to change your address online and $0.55 to change your address by mail. Additionally, many banks and other financial institutions charge fees for changing your address on account records. These fees can range from $5 to $10 per account.
Now that you know the costs associated with moving a 3-bedroom house, it’s time to start thinking of ways to save money. Here are a few tips for reducing your moving costs:
1. Plan Ahead
Planning ahead can be one of the most effective ways to reduce your moving costs. If you have plenty of time to prepare for the move, you can take steps such as packing yourself and shopping around for the best deals on movers and packing materials.
2. Ask Friends and Family
If you’re looking to save money on your move, don’t be afraid to ask friends or family members if they are willing to help out. Oftentimes, people are more than willing to lend a hand in exchange for dinner or a token of appreciation.
3. Get Creative
Sometimes, the best way to save money is to get creative. Consider using trash bags instead of boxes to move your clothes and linens, or request donations of used boxes from local stores. Every little bit helps!
4. Consider Doing It Yourself
If you’re feeling brave and have plenty of time before the move, consider doing it yourself. While this option may require more work, it can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in moving costs.
5. Take Advantage of Special Deals
Many movers and other moving-related companies offer special deals or discounts. Be sure to ask about any promotional offers that could help reduce your costs.
Moving can be a stressful but rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can save money on your move without sacrificing quality or convenience. Good luck!
FAQs
Q: How much does it typically cost to move a 3-bedroom house?
A: The average cost to move a 3-bedroom house for a local move is $1,600, whereas a long-distance move exceeding 250 miles will be approximately $3,950. If you’re moving to another state where the distance surpasses 1,000 miles, then expect to pay around $7,800 for a 3-bedroom house.
Q: What are some tips for saving money on my move?
A: Some tips for saving money on your move include planning ahead, asking friends or family members for help with the move, getting creative with packing materials and boxes, considering doing the move yourself if possible, and taking advantage of any special deals offered by movers or other moving-related companies.
Q: What are some additional costs associated with a move?
A: In addition to the cost of the actual move, there are several other costs involved including packing materials, storage fees, utility transfer fees, cleaning fees, and change of address fees. All of these costs can add up quickly so it’s important to plan ahead and shop around for the best prices.
Q: Are there any resources or services available to help with my move?
A: Yes, there are many resources and services available to help you with your move. Many moving companies offer full-service moving packages that include packing, loading, unloading, and storage services. Additionally, professional organizers can provide valuable advice on how to properly pack and organize your belongings for the move. Finally, there are many online resources such as budgeting calculators and checklists that make it easy to plan a successful move.
