Moving is usually an expensive and stressful experience, but it doesn't have to be. With some planning and plotting, you can easily move without breaking the bank or sacrificing quality and safety.
For those moving items you do have to spend money on, don't forget to protect them with an extended warranty. Mulberry Unlimited lets you protect all of your purchases under the same protection plan for an affordable monthly price, without any deductibles or hidden fees.
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To help you get started, we’ve compiled a helpful list of tips for budget-friendly moving, no matter where you’re from or where you’re going.
Start by decluttering
Before you can even think about packing anything, you need to declutter your home. Go through your belongings and decide what you can’t live without and what you’re willing to part with. You can sell or donate items that you no longer need or use, which can help save money on moving costs. The less you have to move, the less expensive it’ll be.
Find cheap or free moving boxes
Moving boxes aren’t usually cheap to purchase, but there are still some ways to get them at a discount, or even for free. Check with your local grocery liquor stores, as they often have extra boxes that they're willing to give away. Home Depot moving boxes and Lowe's moving boxes are often available to customers for free, just call ahead to make sure they have enough on hand, so you aren’t wasting a trip.
If you can’t source them for free, U-Haul and Amazon offer affordable moving box packages, just do a little research to make sure you’re getting the best price.
Rent a trailer
If you're moving locally and have access to a vehicle with a hitch, you can rent a Harbor Freight trailer (or whatever is available near you). Renting a trailer can often be much more affordable than a moving truck, just make sure you know exactly what size you need before booking anything.
Move during off-peak season
If you move during peak season (June to August) you’re going to be subjected to peak pricing, so try and move during the off-peak season (September to May).
Check for garage sales
Scope out local garage sales for affordable moving supplies, including boxes, packing material, and furniture. Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist are also great places to source supplies.
Pack efficiently
Packing efficiently can help you save money on moving supplies and make the moving process more efficient. Instead of wasting money on packing paper or bubble wrap, use clothing, towels, and blankets to wrap up fragile items. Instead of buying boxes, you can use suitcases, laundry baskets, and reusable grocery bags to pack things up.
Hire help
If you think you’re going to need help with any heavy lifting or packing/unpacking a truck or trailer, check out service providers like TaskRabbit or HireAHelper. You can find people who are available to help with very specific tasks, at a fraction of the price of hiring through a traditional moving company.
At the end of the day, the key to a successful move is to stay organized, on budget, and focused on your goal. Don’t forget to install the Mulberry browser extension so you can earn rewards for any moving supplies you buy, and even secure product protection for free!