Shop around
Start your search for a moving company early. Get quotes for moving on different days or times of the month. You might find that weekdays are cheaper than weekends. Make sure your removalists are members of the Australian Furniture Removers Association and check they’re covered by insurance.
Collect boxes
Buying boxes from removalists can be expensive. Instead, trawl local business for boxes. It’s a good idea to visit a liquor store because their boxes are perfect for packing glasses and breakables. Book stores are another good source as they generally have strong boxes.
Buy pre-used boxes
Most major removalists offer pre-used boxes for moving. They are just as good as new boxes, so why pay more?
Use box alternatives
Before you spend any money on boxes, make sure you’ve exhausted all other options at home. Pack your things in suitcases, backpacks, laundry hampers, baskets and eskies. Towels and blankets make great padding.
Use garbage bags
Wardrobe boxes can be expensive. Instead, bundle up your clothes on hangers and cover with garbage bags. Read more about this hack here.
Packing supplies
Shop around for bulk packing supplies such as bubble wrap, tissue paper, labels, tape and tape dispensers. Try ebay, Gumtree, discount shops and Facebook sale groups.
Customise your move
Instead of paying full-service for moving, try to outsource parts of the job, such as just moving the big pieces.
Prepare meals
Eating out and getting takeaway adds up when you move. Try meal prepping in the weeks leading up to the move, so you have go-to frozen meals on hand when you need them.
Dismantle and assemble furniture yourself
If you have flatpack furniture, dismantle it yourself before the removalists arrive. This will make your move go faster. Opt to assemble it yourself at the other end.
You might also like:
This is the $1 thing you need from Ikea when you’re moving
