When you move, it can feel as if you are juggling with flaming swords and riding on an unicycle. It’s really an art. No matter if you’re moving across the nation or just a few blocks, it won’t cost an arm-and-a leg. Here are Man With A Van Edinburgh tips on how to move without breaking the bank.

Let’s talk first about strategy. You need to plan if you want some savings. It’s like baking a dessert without knowing all the ingredients. Moves are no different. Make a list of everything you’ll need to do, such as packing, hiring moving companies (or paying friends pizza), changing address, etc. This list could be the lifeline you need.

This is where you’ll save the most money when it comes to packaging. Buy them new and they’re expensive. If you want free boxes, check out local stores and online marketplaces. Make sure you empty them before leaving the store. Bubble wrap is not the best way to protect fragile items. Instead, you can use linens and towels.

It’s time to talk about the timing. This is crucial for this relocation chess game. Avoid moving during high-demand times, such as weekends or summer months when everyone is on the same page. During the week or off-peak season, when business slows down like molasses during January, many moving companies will offer lower prices.

When hiring professionals, compare prices like you’re at a fleamarket. Ask for quotes from multiple firms and, if required, pit them against one another politely. Some may match prices of their competitors to win you over.

If you’re a DIY enthusiast and think renting a vehicle is easy, then kudos. Gas guzzlers don’t come cheap anymore, so be sure to calculate the fuel costs ahead of time. Otherwise you may find yourself at a pump station in Nebraska with an empty pocket.

Do not forget to insure your porcelain cat collection. Nobody would want it to break into oblivion on the journey from its old home to their new one. It is important to know what options you have for insurance, regardless if you use professional movers and/or rent wheels.

You can’t overstate the importance of labeling boxes. They save time and money when you unpack them later. Benjamin Franklin, who was wise in his day, once said that “time IS wealth”.

The inclusion of family members can help to create a fun atmosphere for bonding, while simultaneously reducing the workload.