How much does your move cost?

According to a 2010 report by Worldwide ERC, the average Professional household move costs $12,230. Say what?

That seems a bit excessive to me, but if you want to sit back with your feet up and let the movers do everything from packing the cutlery to moving the piano and handling the entire move for you, then this is approximately what you’re up for. Great if you can afford it I guess. But for those of us that want a bit more realistic price for our moving costs there are a few ways you can reduce this cost.

Firstly, you can do it all yourself. While this is not free, it would reduce the cost significantly, although in my opinion you need to take your time into consideration. You might not be paying yourself, but you are foregoing other things you would rather be doing or even giving up a day or two of work to do this move, so your “cost” needs to be considered too. You will probably also need to find some good friends or family that are willing to help you move that piano.

Next, you can hire professional movers, but reduce the amount of time you are paying them for. So for example packing up all your belongings before the day, and being ready for the movers to just do their thing and move your stuff.

Save up to 25% by moving during Summer.

Summer is a popular time to move and you will pay a premium of about 20 – 25% more for the privilege of moving during this time. So if you can plan to move between October and April and also move mid month to save even more. Movers are busiest at the beginning and end of the month.

And one of the best tips is to get rid of what you don’t want or need. No point paying to move that piano if no one ever plays it. Find it a good home where it will get use and save your dollars. You might even make a few extra dollars by selling unwanted items or just make yourself feel good by giving it away to people who need it.