For many people, moving is a bitter-sweet process. It is sweet as it represents a fresh start somewhere completely new. But, at the same time, it is bitter, as it is time, energy, and money consuming. And, what people fear the most are the moving expenses. Yes, moving comes with a hefty price tag! That is why people opt for a DIY kind of approach instead of letting movers take care of everything. Luckily, there are many places where you can cut corners, especially when you want to cut costs on packing expenses. So, without further ado, here are some tips and tricks on how to cut packing expenses.

Book a Moving Agency Ahead of Time

Yes, hiring movers is not always a good option when moving on a budget and trying to cut costs on packing expenses. But, just think about it – if you hire movers ahead of time, you will probably get some discounts for early booking and be able to negotiate the final price. Moreover, you will not have to worry about something going wrong and then spending a fortune on fixing it. With them, you will also be able to calculate your overall moving prices! So, as soon as you set your moving date, start researching different moving companies.

Be Creative With Packing

Another way to cut costs on packing expenses is to be creative. That is, look for alternatives when it comes to packing. If you do not have enough boxes and bins, there are other things you can use for packing. For example, use luggage, travel bags, sports bags, and similar. Instead of using packing paper, use old magazines or newspapers. And, instead of plastic wrap, use towels, blankets, throws. You can even use socks for wrapping glasses or smaller delicate items.

Declutter Before Packing

One thing is for sure, the more items you plan on relocating, the more expensive your move will be. And, of course, the more stuff you have, the more money you will spend on buying packing materials. So, the best way to cut packing expenses is to pack less! Thus, take a few days off and declutter. See what is really necessary for your new home, and pack only that. Everything else, you can either donate to your local charity or sell it online. There are many sites like Craigslist where you can sell your items quickly.

Shop Smart!

Another great way to cut costs on packing expenses is to know where to shop for them. That is, you should do your research and see which places sell packing supplies and for what price. So, start with moving agencies. Then check what home essentials you can find in your local supermarket or hardware store. Also, some things like plastic wraps, packing paper, duct tape, and scissors you can get really cheap at a ‘dollar store’. Thus, shop smart, and you will be able to save a lot of money when packing.