Saving Tips
Budget is an all important part of the move. It would be nice to just do a full service move where you do not need to lift a finger but since not everybody can do so, there are some ways to save during your move.
1. Pack by yourself- packing just takes time and organization, so pack a little everyday, while packing make a list of things you put inside the boxes and stick the list outside the box. This way you know what’s inside.
2. Lighten your load- the cost of shipping your items is determined by how much your load weighs. So if you have items that are not in use, consider putting them in storage or donating them. You can also hold a garage sale to make a few extra money. If you decide to donate your things to charity, make sure you get a receipt, it might be tax deductible.
3. Your move may be tax deductible so check with the IRS. If you are moving due to a change in job location or is starting a new job, your moving expense may be deducted from your federal income tax return
4. Collect your deposits before you move. Inform your utility providers and landlord of your move. You may have left deposits which may be collected.
5. Travel wisely. If you are moving to a location far away then plan ahead. Make travel trips and plan a route which will not only save you time but also gas and hotel money.
10 Helpful Moving Tips
Moving can be less of a hassle if you plan ahead. Here are some helpful moving tips to make relocating easier.
1. Make a list- if the moving company you use doesn’t have a check list make your own. Also include in the list your doctor’s, school and dental records. Make a list of all the things you need to do before you leave, a list of all the things you need to pack and another list to check for before you leave to make sure that you have everything with you.
2. Make a floor plan- a floor plan gives you an overview of where to put things in your new location. If you are using the services of the moving company to unpack, this is a handy guide to where everything needs to go.
3. Have plenty of supplies- buy lots of tape, bubble wrap, cartons, foam and other packaging materials. It is hard to estimate how much you need but buying in bulk saves you money and time.
4. Color coordinate- assign a color for every room in your house. Boxes don’t come in color so maybe you can use colored markers or post its. If you assign blue for kitchen then use a blue marker or a blue post it to label the box. This will make sorting easier.
5. Inventory- to make sure that everything will be there when you get to your new location, create an inventory of items for every box you pack. Tape the inventory on the outside of the box and file away another copy for your personal use.
6. Keep things together- keep light bulbs with lamps, extension cords with their respective appliance and pictures with picture frames. If they go together it would be better to keep them together.
7. Use your luggage- if you have empty suitcases lying around; use these to pack other house hold things.
8. Have a personal box- members of the family or individuals would want to pack their own personal things by themselves. Assign personal boxes to each person and orient them with your inventory and labeling system so that everything will remain organized.
9. Keep your valuables with yourself- If you have jewelry, certificates of stocks, bonds and other items of value, keep them with you during the move. This will minimize worry.
10. Pack ahead- everyday before the big move, start to pack your belongings. Start by packing up things you don’t use everyday. Things you do not need in your new home should either be given away or put in storage.
