How to reduce moving costs

The summer time is the most popular time for moving. It’s also the most busy and expensive. In this article we have compiled a list of tips for how to reduce moving costs and keep them as low as possible.

Picking a Moving Company:

Hiring a moving company is the biggest expense you’ll pay for the moving process. However, many moving companies offer helpful alternatives to a full service move. You may be able to lower the cost by doing the packing yourself or renting your own truck. You can review your options by checking with the company and asking questions.

• Consider cost

  Most moving companies charge differently than the others. Some charge by the hour, others offer a flat rate. Depending on what you are moving and the distance you might consider one option over the other.

• Mind your deadlines 

  Moving can be stressful – a way to reduce the stress is to pick a day that doesn’t put you at risk of having to pay an extra month’s rent at your current home. You may also want to book your move in advance, many companies offer discounted prices for the summer if you book during a different season.

• Reserve your move early

  The best way to get a low price for your summer move is to book in advance. You may even be able to achieve this if you reserve 2 week ahead of time.

• Tip your movers

  Movers work hard on the move date. They often work for hours with nothing but a water break. A great way to show your appreciation is to tip the guys. A 15% – 20% tip is a good idea.

Making Packing Painless:

Packing on your own can be a bothersome task. Here are some tips to help that will make your boxes easier to manage.

• Pack a necessities box 

  In order to make sure that you have a great first night consider packing a box full of essentials. This box should include toiletries, and medications, and a change of clothes for the next 1 – 2 days.

• Use the right tape

  When securing boxes use packing tape. This will ensure that not of your boxes come undone at the bottom.

• Use proper packing methods 

  Try to keep the weight of your boxes between 20 – 50 lbs. You can put heavier items at the bottom of the box to make it more stable and avoid squishing smaller items. Also use padding for more fragile pieces. At Excalibur we recommend packing books in small boxes as a way to keep the weight of the box to a minimum.

Getting Your Security Deposit Back:

Ensuring that you receive your security deposit back is something to keep track of from the day you move in to the day you move out. It is not an easy task, however, here are some tips for what to pay attention to.

• Read your lease entirely

  Check for guidelines and limitations; there should be a list that must be agreed to before signing.

• Take pictures

  Take photos of your home before you move in and when you are moving out. This will serve as a record of damages that were already there. It will also ensure that the burden won’t fall on you.

• Get it in writing

  For any alterations you want to make such as painting, wall mounting, etc. make sure that you get written permission from your landlord to make sure you don’t get charged for it later.

• Clean up

  This will not only make the photo taking process easier but it will also increase your chances of receiving your security deposit back. Pay special attention to floors, cabinets, appliances, and bathrooms.

Excalibur Moving and Storage are a top rated moving company serving Maryland, Virginia and the Washington DC areas. We encourage you to take a look at some of our customer testimonials here.

Contact us today at 1-800-548-6052 or fill out the contact form to find out how we may be able to assist you for any moving, packing or storage needs you may have.