Relocation is a stressful period for many different reasons. First of all, moving presents a big change, especially if you are moving to another country. For example, moving from Hong Kong to USA means that you will have to adapt to a completely new culture and ways of living. Most people are not prepared for that. Next, moving is a complex procedure that involves a lot of planning and it requires good organization skills. Lastly, moving can be expensive. So, whether you are moving long-distance or just across the street, you will have to plan your budget carefully. In this article, we will discuss the ways to save some money when moving, and we will give you some tips for budgeting for a local move. So, don’t worry, and let’s see what we can do to help you pull this move off. Stay with us.
How to determine the moving costs of an average local move?
Calling your moving company and asking them to give you a written moving estimate is the starting point for determining your moving budget. Anyway, the American Moving and Storage Association states that the average cost of an interstate household move is about $4,300 (a distance of 1,225 miles) and the average cost of an intrastate move is about $2,300. So, how are these prices determined? Simply put, the price for every move is determined by two factors: The distance of the move, and the total weight of the shipment. This is without other moving services like packing services, storage services, and so forth. Also, moving includes other costs that are not closely related to moving-services:
- Traveling arrangements
- Accommodations
- Cleaning and repairs
- New furniture and renovation projects
- Real Estate agent fees
- Insurance costs
Budgeting for a local move means to write down all the moving-related costs
Hiring licensed movers will help with budgeting for a local move
To determine an accurate moving budget, you will have to take into account every single moving-related expense. Your moving company can give you a quite accurate moving estimate, but only if you hire a licensed, reliable local movers Hong Kong. Many moving companies operate on the market but not all present a good choice. Actually, finding an experienced yet affordable moving crew could prove to be a difficult task. Since your goal is to get an accurate moving estimate and to determine your moving budget, your best bet is to find a trustworthy moving agency. Licensed moving companies offer fully transparent and readable moving contracts that have no hidden clauses and costs. Furthermore, hiring a reliable moving partner has many other advantages. Quality moving crews have adequate tools and loads of experience, and they can help you to organize the move.
Budgeting for a local move? Try packing on your own
While you arguably need moving services to transport your stuff, you can pack on your own. We are more than certain that you have what it takes to pack your books and your clothes. You will just have to get some packing supplies, but more on that later. If you have to move in a hurry and you have to act quickly, you can ask your friends to help you out. Remember that you are not alone in this world and that your friends are there for you in difficult times. Furthermore, you are leaving soon, so this might be your last chance to spend some quality time with your friends, especially if you are moving long distance. You can even turn the relocation process into a fun activity and create some great memories with your family and friends. So, invite your friends now and order some drinks and snacks.
So, what do you need to pack on your own?
If you wish to pack on your own, you will have to get some moving tools. Moving tools are a very important ingredient for organizing a successful move. Using these tools will help you to pack your belongings in a more systematized and safer way. The easiest way to pack anything is to use cardboard boxes. You can visit your local DIY store and get these tools. You can also order these packing materials online. If your goal is to save some money you can ask your friends who recently moved if they have any leftover moving boxes. Anyway, moving tools also include:
- Bubble wrap
- Scissors
- Packing paper
- Packing tape
- Marker pens
- Labeling stickers
You should get some moving tools if you wish to pack on your own
Organize a day of decluttering
We already explained how moving companies use moving quotes to determine the price of your move. We would like to underline the fact that the weight of the shipment dictates your moving budget. In other words, the less stuff you decide to transport the less you will pay for the move. Simple as that. Therefore, you should dedicate a few days to decluttering your home. This is probably the perfect opportunity to throw away everything that you don’t need anymore. Here’s how you can do it:
- Selling items online. Anything you believe is still usable can be sold online. You can also organize a yard or a garage sale. It will surprise you to find out that people are buying all sorts of junk. You can earn a respectable amount of money this way. You can then add this income to your moving budget.
- Donating is always a good option. There is a lot of people in need. This could be your opportunity to give something back to the community.
- Just throw that junk out. If you have a lot of trash in your attic or basement, the best thing you could do is to throw it out. It is just attracting dust and allergens.
As you can see, budgeting for a local move is not an easy task, but if you start early and explore your options, you will be able to get the most for your budget.
