Everyone knows that moving is very stressful. No matter how much you budget for the move, there’s always going to be added costs along with it.
In all reality, moving can easily run up a cost two or three times your original estimation. To lower those expenses, try some of these tips:
Start the packing yourself…
1) Before hiring movers, spend a few days packing on your own. This will not only give you an idea of how much you have to pack, but it will also help you cut back on unnecessary items. When you know what is essential and what can be disposed of, the number of boxes that are necessary for the move will decrease.
Rent a truck…
2) You may think your moving truck will be a good deal, but keep in mind that buying or leasing a moving truck can cost you an arm and a leg. If you have the time, do your research to find out what rental costs will be for the dates of your move as well as the distance you’re traveling.
This way, when it comes time to sign the lease, you can be sure it’s the most appropriate option for your budget.
Ask a friend…
3) Of course, if you want to save yourself the hassle altogether, you may consider asking a relative or friend for help, and preferably someone who has a truck or van!
Rather than add costs to your moving budget, this can be an inexpensive way of making sure your belongings arrive safely and on time from someone who can trust.
However, the problem with this is that you can’t pick the time or date for your move.
You may have to wait until they’re available which will cost extra if you’ve got movers scheduled already or you have to move out on a certain date.
Most people don’t think of all the little details (which add up to be important ones!) when going the DIY route and asking friends and family.
Sell your furniture…
4) For the more independent movers, consider selling your furniture and buying new ones when you get to your new location.
Why pay for a storage unit when you can sell everything in your old home and add it to how much you saved on buying or renting a truck? This way, there is no need to worry about leaving anything behind.
Sell, sell. sell…
5) Along with selling furniture, you may also want to sell appliances that can be replaced on your own once you’ve moved into your new place. While these things won’t recoup all the expenses of moving, it can be a starting point for some.
Know your budget…
6) Of course, you need to have a moving budget in place before your move occurs. Without knowing this, there is no way of calculating how much money can be saved on the process. When you figure out what your needs are (securing a truck/van and movers), make sure to write it down in your budget before your move.
Storage…
7) Planning to have the moving truck in storage for a while? Remember that, depending on where you are in the country, costs can vary. Check with your movers to find out how much storage space will cost you for every week or month you are looking to store it.
Depending on when you are moving, this could be much more expensive than you want to pay.
Shop around…
8) Shop around for the best deals on movers. While you may have found one that is in your general vicinity, others might do the job at a cheaper price. It’s important to remember that when it comes to long-distance moving, costs can increase.
Get to know the moving company…
9) Moving companies are usually much more inexpensive than anticipated. Before hiring a mover, ask questions about their policies so you know what to expect in advance. If you’re willing to do a few things yourself, you might be able to reduce what the movers charge you.
Overspending…
10) No matter what way you choose to move, it’s important that you don’t go overboard with your packing or buying of boxes and supplies. While it may seem like a good idea at the time, overspending can cost you a lot of extra money.
Is it cheaper to hire movers during the week?
The best day to hire movers is any weekday when you have off from work. Why? If it’s the only day that your movers are available, then you may be forced to take time off for them to give their full attention to packing and loading your belongings.
Also, if they normally charge more during weekends, this would be a good chance for you to get their weekday rate instead.
Can I move without hiring movers?
The short answer is yes! However, the long answer is a lot more complicated. Most people who would consider moving on their own haven’t considered the logistics behind it.
Boxes, tape, packing supplies – you’d have to buy these things (most won’t be included in your move), not to mention how much time it will take you to pack everything carefully by yourself.
You also run the risk of dropping or breaking something during all that packing and unpacking. Make sure to weigh out your options carefully before making the choice!
How can moving costs be reduced?
1) Estimate the total cost
Whether it’s your own or you’re hiring movers, you need to know how much the expense is going to be before you start packing.
2) Shop around for movers
There are many moving companies out there and it is important to get quotes from several of them. Take time in comparing each quote so that you can find the best price and service possible.
3) Save money on packing supplies
If you decide to pack yourself, buy supplies in bulk instead of buying them piece-by-piece. If you aren’t packing yourself, ask your mover what supplies they will provide and if there is anything that they might charge for.
4) Avoid overpaying for extra boxes
If you aren’t using packing paper or plastic, you might be tempted to buy a lot of boxes. Don’t do it! Most movers in Dublin have a minimum number of boxes that they require.
For instance, if your move is going to be done in two trucks and the second truck doesn’t have enough boxes for everyone, they may charge you for each box.
5) Do the packing yourself
If your movers provide supplies, great! If not, ask them what they recommend and go from there. Make sure that you aren’t overpacking and include all of your small boxes and bags in with your larger items. For instance, if you plan to put a lamp into a large box, put all of your accessories in a smaller box under that one.
6) Keep track of prices
If you have heavy items, they may require more men to carry them. So if your mover has an hourly rate and it takes more time due to a heavier item, you will be charged for the extra hours. Make sure to keep track of how many hours everything takes so you aren’t overcharged.
7) Get it in writing
When your move is complete and all is said and done, get all of the information in writing. If there were any additional charges or services provided, they should be listed on the bill that you receive. This will be helpful when it’s time to sort out the final costs.
How can I save the most money on my move?
Get quotes from different movers…
It’s important to get at least three quotes before you schedule your move. This way, you will know what the average costs are and how much of a discount each mover is willing to give.
Also, be sure to analyze each quote, because although one price may be cheaper it might not include everything you want to be done. Check what each moving company is providing you and choose from there. Sometimes the cheapest price is not always the best price!
Ask about an hourly rate…
While most movers will give you a flat fee, you should ask about getting a quote with an hourly rate. Sometimes this can save you a lot of money because they won’t charge you more time if your move takes longer than expected. If they do charge by the hour, make sure to keep track of all time spent moving – from start to finish!
Ask about hidden fees…
It’s important to get all of the information in writing before your move. If there were any additional charges or services provided, they should be listed on the bill that you receive. This will be helpful when it’s time to sort out the final costs.
Also, make sure you ask about any additional fees that you might not have expected; such as fuel surcharges, trip fees, and taxes. These can add up quickly and if they aren’t discussed with you before your bill is written up, you’ll have to deal with it later.
How much money should I save up to move?
Depending on the size and distance of your move, it can be a good idea to save up about €1,000. This should be enough to cover all of your expenses from beginning to end.
It’s also a good idea to keep about €200 for incidentals and unexpected costs. This way, you will have a nice cushion of money if something goes wrong or if anything extra comes up.
About Expert Removals in Dublin
At Expert Removals in Dublin, we understand that moving can be a difficult and stressful process. With over 20 years of moving experience, we take pride in our ability to provide quality services and an affordable price.
We work with both commercial and residential clients and do so on a daily basis. We have earned the reputation of being one of the best-reviewed movers in Dublin because we put our customers’ needs first.
Our moving services include:
House removals…
We know how hard it is to leave your beloved house. We’ll make sure you get everything out on time and with care.
Office removals…
We provide quality services for your company’s move, from the moment we step foot in your office to the second we leave. Trust us with all of your business needs.
Student moves…
If it is a student moving into college or another house in Dublin, we know how important it is to do it quickly and with care. You can trust us for all of your student moving needs.
Domestic moves…
We provide everything you need for a seamless transition from one house to another. And we do so at prices you’ll love!
Home storage…
If you need to store your things before moving, we are the perfect solution. We offer both short-term and long-term storage, so it’s all up to you!
Packing Service…
We can help you pack and unpack everything if needed. Our professional movers will ensure that all of your belongings are safely packed and unpacked for you.
When you are ready for your move, make sure to contact us for a free quote or visit our website at expertremovals.ie
