Moving to a big city presents its own set of challenges, such as traffic, strict parking regulations, and narrow hallways in older buildings. However, metropolitan areas also have plenty of charm, whether you are excited for the diverse culture, thriving nightlife, and employment opportunities. Even if you already have a place to live, there is still much to do before you are fully settled. The primary concern is to make the transition as affordable as possible. Fortunately, a moving checklist can keep you under budget and on schedule.
Things to do When Moving into a Big City
Moving costs can add up fast when relocating into a big city. Therefore, saving up is the first thing to do when you decide to relocate. Also, ensure you can cover living expenses for the first few weeks. It is advisable to make a moving budget and stick to it. Other tips for the big transition include:
Do Your Research
The most important thing to do before transitioning into a big city is understanding its cost of living. One advantage of larger cities is that they have a variety of neighborhoods to choose from. There are many websites to check the costs for utilities, groceries, gas, and other amenities. Moreover, you can ask friends, family, or acquaintances living in your desired neighborhood. Another tip is to explore outside the trendy areas for affordable rents.
Make a Checklist
A moving checklist organizes all tasks and keeps you on schedule. It is advisable to start planning eight weeks early by giving notice to your landlord, finding a roommate, or discussing the relocation with your kids. Other checklist items include booking a truck rental, reserving a storage unit, ordering moving supplies, and hosting a garage sale.
Find a Mover
It can be hectic to move by yourself to a big city since there are many logistics involved. Instead, hire reputable and affordable cross-country movers. Ask for moving quotes from a couple of companies near you to narrow down your options. Also, ask the moving consultants questions to ensure they understand your needs.
Look for Moving Company Review
You should not sacrifice quality for affordable moving solutions. A seasoned long-distance mover will provide superior services at affordable rates, which is why you should take time to identify the right moving partner. Fortunately, you can check online reviews and run background checks using free resources like the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Pack Properly
If you are transitioning from a small town to a big city, you will likely have less space at the destination. Thus, pare down as much as you can. Also, account for the weather in the new city and leave items you won't wear. Another tip for an affordable moving experience is to get quality packing supplies to avoid damaging your belongings.
Tips for Saving Money When Moving
Saving money will be at the top of your mind when planning a big city move. Some tips to save costs include:
Declutter Your Home and Sell the Excess
The more moving boxes you have, the more money you pay. Therefore, it is best to downsize your belongings before the big move. Look for duplicate items, unused clothing, or bulky appliances that you don't need. Next, post ads on Nextdoor, eBay, or Craigslist.
Donate Bulky Items You Can't Sell
Donating items to local charities like Salvation Army is an easy way to declutter. Check if the organizations do pickups for larger items such as mattresses and couches.
Reuse Cheap or Free Packing Materials
Affordable moving boxes can bring down your moving costs significantly. You may even get free supplies from furniture or departmental stores around you. Other places to get cheap boxes include Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Letgo, or Offerup. Another tip is to ask the moving company for rental boxes or bins.
Measure Access Points Before Moving
If you have time to inspect your new apartment, use a measuring tape to plot a path for your items. Ensure that your couch or other bulky appliances can fit through sharp corners and hallways. If you are relocating to the new house unseen, ask the property manager for the size and width of doors and hallways. Also, identify the flights of stairs to get to your apartment and ask about freight elevators.
Don't Overbuy for Your New Home
If you want an affordable moving experience, wait to buy new items until you are settled. In this way, you avoid buying items that won't fit in the new space. After settling in, start buying the stuff you need first before proceeding to those you want.
Ask Your Company for Reimbursement
Many companies include moving costs in their job relocation packages. Before moving, negotiate an amount that suits you and your family. If you are in the military, your moving costs may be tax-deductible.
Determine If You Should Spend Money on Movers
Many people interested in affordable moving solutions opt to move on their own. However, things get complicated without the services of a seasoned moving consultant. An expert mover provides safety, experience, and efficiency in one package.
Don't Move During the Busy Season
The best tip for an affordable moving process is to move in the off-peak season. Most people relocate during summer and the weekends, and you can plan to move when movers are less busy to get good rates.
Shop Around for Better Prices
You need to get creative to cut down spending before moving day. For example, you can cancel internet or TV services early while scouting for more affordable providers.
Use Self-Storage When in a Pinch
Self-storage is useful when you have too much stuff. Big cities are infamous for having smaller houses than smaller towns, and it is common to leave stuff behind. Moreover, you can keep your belongings in a self-storage unit if you leave your old place before the new one is ready.
How to Find an Affordable Moving Company?
The best way to reduce relocation costs is to hire an affordable moving company. Start with suggestions from family and friends and search online for moving companies near you. Next, ask for in-home or virtual estimates from several options and compare them. Then, run background checks of the affordable companies and read online reviews. Keep in mind that most movers are willing to negotiate or customize your package.
In Summary
Finding reputable but affordable movers is no easy process. Thankfully, you can check online reviews and use free resources. At Sunshine Movers, we customize moving packages to suit your pocket and get you ready for the big move to the city. Contact us today to save moving costs.
