· One way to cut your costs is by doing some of the packing yourself. Items such as linens, books and clothing are items that are easy to pack and usually cannot be damaged. When working with your fragile items it may be wise to have your movers pack these as issues may arise with your coverage.
· Fill your dresser drawers with clothing or linen to maximize the space. But DO NOT pack anything heavy or breakable inside any furniture. (If you are not going to storage)
· Go through all items and discard any old books, magazines, or anything heavy that you no longer use. Remember all shipments are based on weight and reducing this will lower your transportation charges.
· Other good ideas to lighten your load is to consider getting rid of items you no longer need and raise some additional cash by having a garage sale, online auction, or give the items to charity.
· Ignore the “I Might Need It Someday” syndrome. Remember junk is junk and now would be a great time to get rid of it.
· Take down items such as ceiling fans prior to the moving company coming out. Movers will charge you for the costs of an electrician to perform these types of services.
· Consider servicing your own appliances. Ice makers, washers, and dryers all need to serviced and prepared for moving prior to loading. This is VERY IMPORTANT for front loading washers.
· For items such as cleaners or canned goods, it is less expense to replace than pay for the weight of these items to be shipped. So eat up!
· Make sure you have a location to move to. Storage charges can be very expensive so make sure you have a new residence before your movers leave your residence.
· If you want to buy new furniture wait until you get to your new city. Otherwise, you are paying transportation on your new furniture twice.
· Make sure you purchase enough coverage on your shipment to adequately cover the goods you are shipping.
· Drive your car or boat to your new destination. You will spend much less for the gasoline than what it costs to ship.
· Use only the trusted movers that are provided by your employer.
· Always ask questions, if you do not understand any costs or charges please ask your move consultant to explain.
Doug Powers is a moving consultant for Armstrong United Van Lines and serves home sellers and buyer moving internationally and locally from the Tulsa, Oklahoma metro area including Bixby, Broken Arrow, Jenks, Sapulpa, Sand Springs, Owasso, Coweta, and Wagoner.
Doug Powers Armstrong Relocation United Van Lines 918-313-1840
