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Moves don’t have to be expensive
I’ve moved several times, and many moves have occurred within a week’s notice.
Here’s how I successfully navigated the moves:
5 Tips
1. Maintain a minimalistic lifestyle
I don’t hold on to a lot of stuff. There is not much furniture or clutter in my home. It’s been one of the most helpful habits I’ve maintained that benefit my moves.
Not only are my moves not stressful, but they are smooth, easygoing, and light.
The less stuff you own, the less you’ll have to tug along to the new place.
Maintaining a minimalistic lifestyle also ensures you spend less than you earn, avoid unnecessary debt, avoid storage costs, and it keeps your house cleaner because it gets messy less often.
2. Maintain a 12-month emergency fund
Whether you’re moving or not, maintain your one-year emergency fund.
The pro of having an emergency fund is that you are well-prepared for unexpected expenses. You’re also covered in case you lose income or a job.
The 12-month emergency fund also prevents you from having to leverage credit cards that will increase your debt load.
If you don’t have 12 months, have at least 3–6 months. However, people move all the time with zero savings.
Anything is possible. But having an emergency fund can decrease your stress.
3. Always keep more than one income source
When one door closes, another one opens. But if one door closes, there is no need to wait for the other door to open when multiple doors remain active.
Never place all your eggs into one basket.
Never place your financial existence on one employer.
Create multiple income sources so your bases are protected. Sometimes people lose jobs during or after moves. Things happen. Don’t expect adverse circumstances, but always be prepared for anything so you are prepared if a circumstance does come your way.
4. Move everything myself or with a few people
I’ve never had enough stuff to require professional movers. Over time this might change, but this truth remains for all of my previous moves.
In most of my moves, I could complete without any assistance. Having just my partner, family member, or friend was all the needed help for the other moves.
If you don’t have a lot of stuff, you can save thousands of dollars on your move and do it yourself.
5. Sell and give away everything I don’t use or want
If you own many things, the best thing to do is sell and give as much as possible away.
The easiest way to get rid of stuff is to donate. However, selling your stuff can end up paying for your moving costs (e.g., moving truck, transportation fees, housing fees, and other moving costs).
The Final Checklist
Don’t add unnecessary responsibilities to your plate.
Pack organized, so it’s easy and fast to unpack things.
Have all administrative items complete for your new spot.
Decrease your spending and avoid buying things you don’t need.
If you have time, find a pet sitter, dentist, doctor, gym, or other vital things you need. I always do this before I move, which alleviates more stress.
Lastly, learn the area you’re living in. See what’s around, join some meetup groups, and get acclimated before you arrive.
6 Ways To Decrease Your Moving Costs
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.