Our nation’s leaders may have trouble balancing the budget but this doesn’t need to extend to you. Moving to or from Washington DC can be surprisingly affordable. Are you ready to learn some budget-friendly moving strategies in the DC area? Don’t worry.
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These strategies are pretty simple and they aren’t going to take a lot of time or money.
Go through everything
When was the last time you went through your stuff? Do you have a junk drawer or a closet where unused stuff ends up? If you’re like a lot of other people, what ends up in these spaces is usually forgotten.
Your DC move is the perfect time to go through your stuff, including the junk. Decide what’s going on with you and which items are staying behind. The less you pack the cheaper it is to move.
Be eco-friendly
Moving and the environment usually aren’t a concern. You have enough to worry about without adding to the environment. However, you can save some money and reduce your move’s carbon footprint by reusing packing materials.
Reusing things like bubble wrap and plastic trash bags is better than buying them new. However, eventually, the plastic will end up in a landfill. A better option that’s also cost-effective is to go through your drawers and closets. Grab your old towels, bedding, and any clothes you never plan on wearing. These items make great packing materials and best of all they’re free.
You’re also not sending anything to the landfill. Some items you can donate to charity. The rest you can keep stored away for use on your next DC move. Anything you donate may also qualify for a tax credit meaning you’re saving a little on your move.
Scrounge for boxes and packing supplies
Cardboard boxes are expensive! Yes, it’s a little surprising but moving supplies aren’t cheap. You can easily skip purchasing pretty much everything you need for your move just by scrounging for supplies. You can even think of it as a fun scavenger hunt.
Grocery and liquor stores are great sources for cardboard boxes. Broken-down boxes work just fine. All you need is some packing tape to secure the bottom and the box is good to go. These same places may even have some packing supplies like newspapers lying around. If you can get past the ink, newsprint makes great packing paper.
Time your move
Did you know there’s a peak moving season? It usually runs from spring to early fall. Not only can it be a pain to schedule a moving date during the busy season, but prices also tend to go up.
If your move can wait until the fall or better yet winter, put relocating off. You’re going to get a better rate in the off-season. You’re also going to find it easier to schedule a move that works for your hectic schedule.
Compare shipping services
Shipping services aren’t equal and this means prices vary. Shop around until you find the best rate. However, don’t skip on services just to get the best deal. Sometimes this backfires and you end up doing most of the work.