Here are 8 ways to save money when moving home:
1. Compare moving service costs
If you’re thinking about hiring a removalist, it’s a good idea to compare removal service costs online. You can pay as little as a few hundred dollars for a basic service and a small move. But you can pay up to $3,000 for large moves. It might be worth asking around to see if you can borrow a ute or van, or call around friends to help you move.
2. Compare storage costs
If you’re downsizing, you’ll need to have a think about whether or not you’ll need storage. If you’re getting rid of plenty, you may not need it. But if you do, you can hire out a self-storage unit for a small cost, usually paid on a monthly basis. You can pay for self-storage units for an average of $150 per month.
3. Find or rent used boxes
Boxes may appear cheap when you look at the amount per box. But if you’re moving a family home, the cost of dozens of boxes will add up. You can often find used boxes at supermarkets, large outlet stores, sports stores and electronics stores.
Some moving companies also offer boxes for rent, which can be a much cheaper option than purchasing them by the time you have an adequate supply.
4. Use existing storage items
By using existing storage/packing items, for example, plastic storage tubs, washing baskets, bags and suitcases, you not only save money on packing but you’re doing less harm to the environment by minimising the use of plastic tape.
Another good method of saving on packing materials is leaving your clothes and other belongings in their existing drawers. If you’re worried about things falling out, a simple solution is covering the drawers up with glad wrap to keep your belongings secure.
5. Garbage bags to pack clothes
Rather than packing your hanging clothes and linen in boxes, you can easily pack them into garbage bags – a much cheaper option. If you’re worried about the environment, you can purchase biodegradable garbage bags.
6. Use soft furnishings instead of bubble wrap
Rather than spending up on bubble wrap, you can use existing linen and cloth to separate your delicates when packing.
7. Visit the $2 shop
Before you spend money on permanent markers and other packing supplies, be sure to stock up at discount stores to get the most bang for your buck.
Look for things like tape, markers and colour coding stickers. They might also have cheap baskets and other storage items (maybe even cheaper than boxes).
8. Organise food for moving day
Rather than spending money on takeaway when you realise you’re starving at 6pm on moving day, prepare by creating a snack pack. If you’re feeding a family, pre-cooking dinner can save you $80 spent on takeaway.