NorthStar Moving® is all about getting the best value for your money! We understand that moving a home can become an expensive task very quickly. People often say they want to go with whatever moving company is the cheapest. But overall, the cheapest could end up costing you the most. How can you save the most money on your move and movers?
An article from the Chicago Tribune has featured numerous ways to transport items for less. Here is the shortened version’s list of money savers:
• Hiring a quality mover: When looking for moving companies get at least three price quotes from three different companies. Always have each company come look at your home in person to give an estimate. A full-service mover should provide a written estimate and “not give a quote over the phone or online.”
• Be Flexible with moving days: If your time is flexible, ask what the cheapest rates would be for different days and/or seasons. The busiest and most expensive moving times tend to be summer weekends near the 15th and 30th of the month.
• Save $$ on supplies: If your moving company will allow you to pack your own belongings, try these ideas. Boxes—Many moving companies sell recycled boxes to their clients at a cheaper price. Some companies will even give you money back for returning boxes after your move! Of course, boxes are cheapest when they’re free, so look carefully!
Packing Materials—Remnants from paper shredders and scarves seem to be the most popular replacements for bubble and packing peanuts. Get creative!
• Get Insurance: Things can break while being sent to your new home. Mishaps can happen with even the best moving companies. Check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to see if it covers your belongings during the move. If not, you will want the full replacement-value insurance. You can buy insurance from your moving company, but it is usually cheaper from a third party company. (Check out MovingInsurance.com)
• Most importantly, avoid rip-offs! Make sure the company doesn’t purely participate in the following: furniture nabbing, lowballing, large down payments, and giving only instant quotes without home-estimates. The best thing to do to avoid scams and rip-offs is to research!!
*Doing your research on moving companies* Check moving companies’ ratings with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), look at the number of years in business, read recommendations from past clients, find out about any awards/accolades, and read reviews on the Internet. Try sites like Yelp.com, Citysearch, and Angie’s List to get started.
Have any other tips on how to save money on your move? Everyone would love to hear!
