Moving can be one of the most stressful times in a person’s life, especially when it comes to making a long-distance move. Relocating often puts a significant strain on finances, and it is difficult to decide what to pack and what to leave behind. Additionally, there are the big items to worry about, such as cars and furniture. Staying organized by implementing the best ways to pack up and head out will help to ease this burden. Simplify your upcoming moving adventure by following these six tips.
Donate Your Car
Figuring out what to do with your car before a move can be overwhelming. If you are moving to a city with great public transportation or your destination is too far away to drive, chances are you will want to entirelyget rid of your vehicle. Donating your car to charity is a simple and financially rewarding way to solve this problem. Car donations can be made at no cost to you and can even earn you extra money by qualifying you for a sizable tax refund. Even if your car isn’t in the best shape, car donation sites are more than willing to take them off of your hands. You can find where to donate old cars online and locate the nearest drop-off location in your state.
Organize Before Packing
If moving seems like a dreaded task, you may be tempted to throw all of your belongings into some trash bags and organize it all later. Sorting your things ahead of time, however, will help you in the long run. Many movers charge per pound, so it will be worth your timeto discard the things you don’t need. If you are planning to move without the help of professionals, you will especially need to pack light. Repeated heavy lifting is one of the most stressful parts of moving, so why not make it easier on yourself? You’ll also be glad you took the time to box things up in an organized fashion once you arrive at your new destination.
Yard Sales to the Rescue
Moving will likely result in the realization you have more stuff than necessary. Instead of taking all of your items with you, save yourself some heavy lifting and earn extra money by having a yard sale. Identifythe things you will want to sell as you pack up your belongings. Display your items in an organized fashion and keep your pricing simple.
Successful advertising is essential to pulling off a money-making yard sale. Get the word out by placing an ad in the newspaper and putting up signs at busy intersections. Don’t forget to also use word of mouth and social media sites.
Hire a Reasonably Priced Mover
Talk to people who have recently moved or consult a trusted real estate agent to get an idea of the best movers in the area. After getting a list of potential companies, conduct your own background check by using sources such as the Better Business Bureau. Compare each company’s costs andget an in-home estimate so the movers have an idea of the level of assistance needed. Finally, once you have chosen your mover, ask for a written binding estimate to avoid paying more than you were promised.
Make a To-Do List
Make your life easier by writing things down and keeping a list as you prepare to move. Things that need to be done will likely pop into your mind; jot them down before you forget. While you pack up to go, be mindful of eventually unpacking your things. When you arrive at your new home, you’ll be glad you took the time to write what was in each box and container. Labeling your packed items is as simple as numbering each box and writing a description of the contents in a notebook. This will avoid confusion and stress when locating items once you’ve moved.
Don’t Go It Alone
Even the most organized person in the world needs a little help when it comes to a project as stressful as moving. Chances are, you’ve helped a friend move in the past and he or she owes you one. Call up these friends and relatives. They will likely be more than willing to help — and you can even make a party of it. This can also be a great opportunity to spend some additional time with people you will soon be moving away from.
While relocating can be an extremely stressful time, by following these six tips, you can ease the burden of moving — and save some money along the way.
