Relocating for family or employment is something we all do at some point. It also is a huge financial burden if tackled without forethought. Here are a few tips to help avoid the overspending that can occur with a typical family move.
Towing: If you have a sturdy vehicle with a towing hitch, consider renting a cart or cargo trailer instead of a traditional moving van. Mileage charges for the latter can be significant for a long-distance move, so this strategy is a huge opportunity to save money.
Containers: Buying giant boxes from moving stores can be expensive. Chain hardware stores have large boxes for less, and office supply stores offer affordable, easily-assembled file boxes in bulk. Also check Craigslist. For children's sports gear and toys, Ziploc and Hefty sell giant, reusable plastic bags, which provide see-through storage and come with handles for easy carrying.
Downsizing: Having fewer items to relocate means less stress and reduced shipping costs. If a heavy furniture item is going to add too many dollars to your bottom moving line, it might be more financially beneficial to sell or donate it before your move.
Amenities: If you're moving with kids in tow, cheaping it out on hotel amenities might not be the best idea. If your room comes with a microwave, refrigerator and coffeepot, as well as a swimming pool and exercise facility, you have built-in entertainment and meal savings.
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Have fun on the runThe Phd Pocket Disc ($10-$15; www.livelovecatch.com) is a perfect toy for the road. The crocheted flying disc, created by Guatemalan women who produce them under fair-trade practices, can be crushed in the bottom of a suitcase and come out ready to fly.
Throw it just as you would a Frisbee. It's surprisingly aerodynamic and behaves much like a plastic flying disc.
