Studies have shown that planning and executing a move is typically more expensive and stressful than Americans initially anticipated. US citizens aged 18 to 45 will undergo an average of five or six relocations, and after age 45 that number drops to around two or three. With these stats in mind, it can be beneficial to plan ahead to save yourself as much stress and expenditures as possible on any future relocations.
Merit Moving Systems is an experienced moving and storage company based out of Orange County and has completed countless successful relocations since we first opened our doors in 1958. Our BBB-accredited team knows the moving industry like the back of our hand and can offer insight to anyone interested in making their next relocation as seamless as can be!
Moving Can Be an Expensive Process
Many homeowners start the moving process by organizing a budget, which is a great way to stay on top of expenses, but they run into problems with accuracy as the process gets underway. Research has shown that Americans tend to underestimate their moving budgets by around $500-$600.
It can be helpful to have a more precise idea of what to anticipate for moving costs. Local moves tend to fall around $1,500 to $3,000, depending on volume, while anyone relocating cross country should expect to spend closer to $7,000.
Our Top Tips for Saving Money on a Move
Don't let these numbers overwhelm you, though! There are still plenty of ways for anyone to cut some corners and stick to their budget, especially when you begin planning well in advance, such as:
- Get Estimates from Multiple Moving Companies: Each moving company will have a slightly different rate, and may have varying moving solutions offered, so calling around to a few different movers will help you find the perfect fit!
- Downsize Before Moving Day: Most movers base their rates at least partially off of cargo volume and weight, so getting rid of anything that doesn't need to make the trip with you could significantly reduce the estimates you're given.
- Move in the Offseason: Most Americans tend to wait for summer weekends for their relocations, as kids are out of school and weather is optimal. By scheduling yours for a weekday sometime between October and May, you will get reduced rates from local movers.
- Opt-Out of Unneeded Moving Services: Homeowners save money with Merit Moving by making use of our flexible moving packages, and only opting in for the services they absolutely need.
Moving is a Stressful Time
A whopping 91% of Americans voiced that their relocation was stressful. That stress is in part due to the expenses involved, but there are a lot of other factors weighing on their minds, like the emotional stress of leaving a beloved neighborhood, or the physical toll of packing and organizing, not to mention unpacking and reorganizing at a new residence!
Many people polled also pointed to the safety of their belongings as a stressful part of their relocation, which is why it's imperative to work with experienced movers. Merit Moving will hand-wrap all fragile items and devise custom crates for irreplaceable things like antiques or artwork, and handles furniture assembly, all to bring our customers the peace of mind that their items are safe.
Suggestions for Making Your Move Less Stressful
While the emotional stress of leaving friends and family behind may be hard to get around, other aspects of your move, like logistics, organization, and packing, can easily be managed and kept stress-free by doing things like:
- Begin Planning Early: By organizing your belongings and thought process, you can start categorizing and packing items little by little, maybe starting with things you don't use every day. This way, you'll have less packing to do last-minute.
- Make a List of Needs: By taking time to think about the services you want, you'll be able to articulate to your mover what they can help out with to take the stress out of moving day for you. Additionally, it'll help you vocalize the services you don't need, which will save you money!
- Consider a Move Coordinator: Many companies, like Merit Moving, can appoint a move coordinator to your relocation, who will oversee the entire process, keep track of the whereabouts of your belongings, and communicate with your mover for you.
Merit Moving Systems offer our valued customers a lowest price guarantee, so they know they're getting top tier moving services at affordable rates. We also give folks free estimates on any of our moving services so they can start planning their budget straight away, and not worry unnecessarily. Call us today to hear more about what we can do for you, and get your complimentary, no-obligation estimate!
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