Tag: New Jersey movers

Categories
Commercial Move

What Services Do New Jersey Moving Companies Offer?

What Services Do New Jersey Moving Companies Offer A Complete Guide

When you hire a moving company, you’re getting more than just a truck and a few movers. In New Jersey, moving companies usually provide extra services in addition to standard loading and transport:

  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Packing supplies
  • Plastic bin rentals
  • Specialty item handling
  • Valuation protection

Of course, all of these services will cost you extra money, so it’s up to you to figure out if you have the budget for them.

What Services Are Included In a Basic Moving Package In New Jersey?

Every New Jersey moving company is different, so you should always ask ahead of time before assuming anything. With that said, below are the most common services that are included free of charge with a basic move:

  • Loading and unloading – the movers will load and unload everything for you, so you don’t have to lift a finger
  • Basic furniture disassembly and reassembly – tables, desks, bed frames, bookcases. Most movers will not disassemble more complicated items like Murphy beds, wardrobes, or other pieces of furniture that require specialized tools.
  • Wardrobe box rentals – generally two to three, which you can use for hanging clothes
  • Tools and supplies – dollies, padded blankets, lifting straps, protective runners for the floors
  • Dismounting of TVs and window air conditioner units – most movers will not mount them in your new apartment, though
  • Released valuation protection – by law, through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), all moving companies are required to offer released valuation for free to customers

So, most NJ movers include simple furniture assembly, wardrobe boxes, basic tools, and valuation protection at no extra cost

Do Moving Companies Provide Packing and Unpacking Services?

Short answer: yes! Most NJ companies do offer packing and unpacking to save you time and stress. Movers can pack everything, including: 

  • Fragile items (glassware, mirrors, artwork, etc.)
  • General household goods
  • Toiletries
  • Kitchen items
  • Electronics

After your move, professional NJ movers can also unpack your boxes and set up your items in your home so you don’t have to deal with it. Of course, including packing and unpacking as part of your move will cost you money. In general, you can expect to pay an extra $500-$1,000, depending on how much stuff you have. That means packing and unpacking services in NJ usually add 15–25% to your total moving cost.

Luckily, many companies also offer partial packing so you can have them pack certain objects or rooms to save on costs. More importantly, you should have the NJ movers pack your fragile items, as they will be held liable should anything get damaged during the move. According to the FMCSA, if you pack fragile items and they get damaged, the moving company can contest your claim.

What Storage Options Do NJ Movers Offer?

Unlike standard self-storage options, most NJ moving companies offer both short-term and long-term storage solutions that are directly tied to your move. Compared to big-chain self-storage companies, mover-provided storage is typically more convenient and secure, since only company employees are allowed on the premises. Prices depend on how much space you need and how long you plan to keep your belongings there.

Some movers provide weekly storage options for ultra-short-term situations, like if you’re waiting for new apartment keys. For longer needs, you can keep items in storage for months at a time, often in secure, climate-controlled facilities. In general, you can expect to pay around $50-$150 per month for long-term storage and about $10-$40 per week for short-term storage.

Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to pay in New Jersey:

 

Size Average Monthly Cost Average Weekly Costs
5 x 5 to 5×10 $40-$50/month $10-$20/week
10×10 to 10×15 $75-$150 $20-$40
10×20 and above $150+ $40+

 

While most New Jersey movers will offer pickup and delivery of stored items, you should always ask if these services are included or come with an extra fee.

Can Movers Supply Packing Materials?

Yes, absolutely. Most moving companies allow you to buy directly from them. The best part is that the packing materials you buy are the same ones they use for their packing service, so you are guaranteed high-quality supplies. On top of that, the movers will deliver these materials directly to your door! Need some supplies? Below is a general breakdown of the various prices for boxes and other materials. Most boxes cost between $5 and $25 each, depending on size and type:

 

Packing Material Average Cost
Small boxes $5-$8
Medium boxes $9-$12
Lamp boxes $9-$10
Framed picture boxes $9-$10
Large boxes $13-$25
Wardrobe boxes $18-$20
TV boxes $50

Can I Rent Plastic Bins From New Jersey Movers?

Not all New Jersey moving companies offer plastic bin rentals, so if this is a service you want, make sure to ask ahead of time. Rentals are typically available in weekly increments, with prices ranging from $50–$100 for 20 bins. You don’t have to rent 20 bins as most companies allow you to rent a single bin.

While more expensive than cardboard boxes, plastic bins are stackable, waterproof, and more durable, making them ideal for protecting your belongings. Plus, you don’t have to worry about disposal since the moving company will pick up the bins after your rental period ends. It’s a great option if you plan on unpacking immediately after your move.

Can Movers Handle Specialty Items Like Pianos or Artwork?

Professional New Jersey movers have handled just about everything you can imagine, from pianos and pool tables to jacuzzis and valuable artwork. That said, always let your movers know about these items in advance so they can bring the proper tools, materials, and truck size.

While most moving companies don’t charge a direct fee for specialty items, extra costs may appear in material charges for specialty boxes (for artwork) or an additional mover for bulky items like pianos or pool tables. This could add an additional $50-$150 to your final bill.

Do Movers Provide Insurance for Damaged or Lost Items?

While you cannot purchase moving insurance directly from your moving company, movers are required to assume liability for the household goods they transport. This comes in two forms:

  1. Full Value Protection
  • Provides the most comprehensive coverage for your belongings
  • Cost is based on the total weight of your shipment, usually $6 per pound, with a 1–2% fee of that total.
  • High-value items (worth more than $100 per pound) must be listed on your shipping document; otherwise, movers can limit their liability.
  1. Released Value Protection
  • Minimal coverage, but completely free.
  • Provides $0.60 per pound per item if something is damaged or lost.
  • Suitable if you don’t have high-value items.

There is always the option of purchasing third-party insurance, and that comes with several benefits, such as:

  • Offering full coverage of your entire inventory, including high-value items, even if they weren’t listed.
  • Protecting against normal damage, loss, and natural disasters.
  • Typically costs $300–$500, providing much greater protection than the mover’s valuation.

Should You Include Extra Services in Your Move?

Deciding whether to include extra services in your New Jersey move depends on your budget, timeline, and how much stress you want to avoid. Services like packing, unpacking, storage, specialty item handling, and insurance can add to your overall cost, but they also save time, protect your belongings, and make the moving process smoother. If you have fragile items, bulky furniture, or limited time, it’s often worth budgeting for these extras. Ultimately, including additional services is about balancing convenience and cost to ensure a safer, more efficient move.

FAQ

Do movers offer cleaning services?

No, most professional NJ movers do not provide cleaning services, but they can recommend local, affordable cleaning companies before or after your move.

Can movers help with junk removal or donation drop-offs?

Yes, movers can handle an extra stop for junk removal or donations, but you must notify them ahead of time.

How much does an average local NJ move cost?

The cost of a typical local NJ move is around $800, though it varies depending on the size of your home and the distance of the move.

When should I request the additional services during the moving process?

Request extra services as early as possible to avoid unexpected fees on your final bill

Will I be charged extra if everything isn’t packed the day of the move?

Yes, movers will charge for additional materials like boxes and for the extra time needed to complete the move.

Are extra services worth the additional cost for my move?

It depends on your budget, timeline, and stress level. For many, the convenience and peace of mind make it worth the cost.

 

Categories
Moving Tips

How to Pack and Move Bulky Items Safely and Easily

Expert Tips on Packing and Moving Bulky Items Safely and Easily

When it comes to moving, the items that most people dread are the large, bulky items. Not only are they heavy, but they’re also hard to maneuver and, in cases like pianos and/or antiques, need to be handled with care. If you’ve ever tried to move these bulky items yourself, you know the challenges that come with it, as well as the potential dangers like injuring yourself. While it’s in your best interest to hire professional movers to do the actual heavy lifting, there are a few things you should do beforehand to make the job a bit easier.

Make a Fully Proven Plan for Your Move

When it comes to moving anything, it’s always good to have a plan. Yes, even if you’re hiring professional movers to do it for you. Write down a list of all your heavy and large items that you need to move, as well as where you want to put them in your new house. You don’t want to have the movers just put a heavy piece of furniture in the wrong room, as you’ll need to move it again at a later date without their help.

 

Floor Plan Fit Check Data Table

Item Item Dimensions (L × W × H) Minimum Doorway Clearance Needed Minimum Hallway Width Needed Fits in New Space? (Yes/No) % of People Who Must Leave Item Behind
Sectional Sofa (Large) 120″ × 36″ × 34″ 38″ 42″ No 37%
King Bed Frame 82″ × 76″ × 48″ 36″ 40″ Yes (if disassembled) 22%
Piano (Upright) 60″ × 25″ × 48″ 32″ 36″ Yes 9%
Dining Table (8-Seater) 84″ × 40″ × 30″ 34″ 36″ Yes (legs removed) 18%
Bookshelf (Tall) 72″ × 30″ × 12″ 32″ 34″ Yes 12%
Recliner Chair 40″ × 38″ × 42″ 34″ 36″ Yes 7%
Washer/Dryer (Stacked) 29″ × 30″ × 75″ 32″ 34″ No (in many older homes) 41%

 

Write up your plan a few weeks before your move. Get the floor plans for your new home and make sure they are accurate and to scale. Then, measure the bulky items you want to bring with you and create scaled-down cutouts for each item. Make sure these paper models include all the fun protrusions and weird edges or corners of the real one. After you have the paper cutouts, place them on the floor plan and figure out the best location for each item. If something doesn’t fit, don’t bother moving it with you. You might be surprised by how much you end up leaving behind! Luckily, the less you bring with you, the cheaper your move will be.

Once you know what items you’ll take with you, make some copies of the floor plan, complete with the bulky items in their appropriate place. Keep it on hand during the move so you can direct the movers. And don’t throw out the original! Keep it in a safe place. You never know when you might want to redecorate, and you’ll already have a floor plan ready!

Disassemble What You Can for Easier Moving

While many reliable New Jersey movers will do basic disassembly for you, it’s a better option for you to do it yourself. Check all of your bulky items to see if they have any removable parts. This includes the legs from your table and chairs, shelves from a bookcase, wheels from your bed frame, and so on.

Before you disassemble, make sure you have the appropriate tools on hand. In most cases, it should only be a screwdriver and/or Allen wrench. If you don’t, see if you can borrow some from a neighbor or friend. While disassembling yourself might be more time-consuming, it also means you get to save money since the movers won’t be spending time doing it themselves. Plus, you can organize the dismantled parts however you want. Your best bet, though, is to tape any legs or shelves together and put all of the screws, nuts, bolts, etc. into a baggie and tape it all to the main body of the item. Trust us, you don’t want to dig through all of your boxes or bags looking for the legs to your table!

 

Cost Impact Chart for Bulky Items

Item Extra Labor Time Added (Minutes) Added Cost (Local Move – Est. $150/hr Truck) Added Weight (lbs) Cost Increase for Long-Distance (Based on Weight)
Sectional Sofa (Large) 25–40 mins $60–$100 180–250 lbs $90–$140
King Bed Frame 20–30 mins $50–$75 120–160 lbs $55–$95
Upright Piano 60–90 mins $150–$225 500–800 lbs $200–$350
Hot Tub / Jacuzzi 90–120 mins $225–$300 700–900 lbs $260–$380
Dining Table (8-Seater) 15–25 mins $40–$65 130–180 lbs $65–$100
Refrigerator (Full Size) 20–30 mins $50–$75 200–350 lbs $75–$150
Pool Table 120–180 mins $300–$450 600–1,000 lbs $250–$450
Washer/Dryer (Stacked) 25–35 mins $60–$90 250–320 lbs $80–$150

 

For more complicated pieces of furniture or appliances, you might want to call a specialist. Even reputable NJ movers don’t disassemble things like Murphy beds or antiques. And if you don’t know what you’re doing, you can do more harm than good. It might cost you some extra money, but it will be worth it in the long run as you won’t have to worry about damaged items or walls.

Maintain the Highest Safety Standards While Packing

Most large items aren’t going to fit in any kind of box, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to pack them at all. After all, you want to make sure your items get to your new house unscathed. If you hire movers, most will provide some level of protection for your furniture, such as padded blankets. While that might be enough for some things, for more delicate items, you will want to go a step further.

Glass

Like your cups and bowls, you want to treat any large pieces of glass with care when moving. For flat items, place two pieces of tape in an ‘x’ shape. This will reduce shattering as it helps keep the glass intact. If possible, wrap any glass pieces in bubble wrap and inform the moving crew of the fragile items. This includes things like large mirrors and picture frames with glass!

Artwork

If you have large pieces of artwork, you might want to consider getting specialty art boxes for it. Pack each piece separately and make sure to wrap each one with bubble wrap and fill the inside of the box with butcher paper to prevent jostling.

Mattress

If your old mattress is still in good shape, there’s no reason to toss it out. If you have a foam mattress, you can compress it to an even smaller size by putting it into a plastic vacuum bag and vacuum-sealing it. For standard mattresses, get a new mattress cover before you move to protect the mattress itself from the elements, rips, and bed bugs.

Furniture

Yes, NJ movers will have mattress pads they can use to wrap around your furniture, but you might want to wrap delicate furniture yourself. That means you’ll need to get your own furniture pads, moving blankets, and foam padding. You might want to go a step further and wrap certain items with bubble wrap for extra protection. Just make sure any plastic doesn’t come in direct contact with the wood or fabric!

Piano

Despite their heavy size, pianos are quite delicate and require extra attention when it comes to proper moving. Cover the piano keys and pedals in bubble wrap and then wrap the lid to the keys. The movers will wrap the legs and sides of the piano with moving blankets.

Hire Expert Movers for a Smooth Transition

Your best bet when moving these bulky items is to hire qualified movers. Not only will they have all the appropriate moving and packing materials, but they also have the skills and knowledge to move bulky items with ease. When finding the right mover for you, make sure to mention the large items you plan on moving. Not all companies have experience with moving things like pianos, jacuzzis, pool tables, etc., so they might refer you to someone else, which could end up costing you a lot more.

Even if you’re just moving regular furniture, you should ask what kind of equipment they use and what they provide. Most trusted NJ movers wrap your bulk items free of charge and even put down things like wall and floor protectors. Always ask the movers if they provide this service. If not, you might want to look into another option.

Ready to move? Make sure to give us a call! We have years of experience moving pretty much everything you can imagine. Not only that, but we’re experts when it comes to navigating tight corridors and doorways. We’ll give you a free quote and answer any questions you might have, so don’t wait! Contact us now!

FAQ

Does moving bulky items cost more?

It depends on your move. With local moves, you generally pay a flat hourly rate, so a bulky item won’t automatically add extra cost to your total. So long as you provide the movers with an accurate list of what you plan on moving, it won’t cost extra money. For long-distance travel, it might increase costs as movers will often charge by weight and/or volume. Your best bet is to leave as many large items behind as possible. If you do bring a piece of furniture with you, make sure to let the movers know!

The movers damaged an item. What should I do?

Your items will be covered up to $0.60/per pound per item automatically. If you notice damage to your items, take pictures of it and send it directly to your customer service representative. You will then have to go file an insurance claim, which could take a few months.

Can movers help transport a single item?

It depends on the movers. Some will provide small ticket moving services, which is great if you’re picking up a sofa or pool table from an individual. Even if the company doesn’t mention it on their website, you can always call and ask.

Categories
Moving Tips

How to Get Financially Ready for Your NJ Move

How to Get Financially Ready for Your NJ Move

You probably already know that moving isn’t cheap, even in New Jersey. Simply finding a new apartment requires you to take time off work and travel to different locations. On top of that, once you do find your new place, you’ll have to put down the first month’s rent, security, and potentially a broker’s fee, all of which can cost you thousands of dollars. This doesn’t even cover the cost of hiring professional NJ movers!

The process of moving requires a lot of steps, from packing to moving over your utilities and health information to your new location. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and forget a few things. If you’re overseeing the moving budget, it’s all too easy to get caught up in the high cost of hiring New Jersey movers or, if you’re doing it yourself, getting a moving truck. However, there are a lot of small details that might fall through the cracks and could end up costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars! Below are some of the most common costs of moving to consider.

Create a Full Plan for Moving Costs

In order to financially prepare for your local move, you’ll first need to take into account all the costs associated with the move. This includes things that might seem obvious, but many people often forget to include, such as:

  • Moving Supplies – If you purchase all of your moving supplies, you might be in for a surprise as the total can add up quickly. Think about it, you have to get boxes, packing tape, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and more for all of your belongings. Luckily, you can mitigate these costs by getting free boxes from friends, family, stores, and even browsing your local Facebook groups.
  • Cost of travel – Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile, you’ll need to factor in how much it will cost to get from your current home to your new one. A train might seem reasonable, especially if that’s how you normally commute. However, during a move, you’ll probably carry a few important documents and fragile items with you, so you may end up having to take a taxi or rent a car.

Complete NJ Moving Cost Breakdown (Estimated Ranges)

Expense Category Estimated Cost Range (NJ) What This Covers Money-Saving Tip
First Month’s Rent $1,500 – $3,500+ Rent due at lease signing Negotiate move-in date or incentives
Security Deposit 1–1.5× Monthly Rent Refundable deposit required by the landlord Document the apartment’s condition thoroughly
Broker Fee (If Applicable) $1,000 – $4,000+ Agent commission for finding an apartment Look for no-fee listings
Professional Movers (Local) $800 – $2,500 Labor, truck, fuel for in-state move Move mid-week or off-season
Long-Distance Moving $3,000 – $7,000+ Mileage, labor, transportation Downsize before moving
Packing Supplies $100 – $500 Boxes, tape, wrap, padding Collect free boxes locally
Storage Unit (Monthly) $75 – $300+ Temporary or long-term storage Choose the smallest unit possible
Moving Insurance Upgrade $100 – $500+ Full-value protection for belongings Insure only high-value items
Utility Deposits & Setup $100 – $400 Electric, gas, and internet setup Transfer services early
Furniture & Grocery Replacement $300 – $2,000+ Items tossed or replaced after the move Buy used or delay upgrades
Pet Boarding (If Needed) $40 – $60 per day Temporary care during move Ask friends or family for help
Mover Tips $50 – $200+ Gratuity for moving crew Budget this ahead of time

 

  • Storage – If you can’t move into your new place immediately or if you just overestimated the size of your new apartment, you’ll need to look into potential storage options. NJ Great Movers offers secure and affordable storage, but you can also opt for other companies! The smaller the storage lockers you need, the cheaper they will be.
  • Moving Insurance – Yes, professional movers offer basic insurance, but this only covers $0.60/pound for any damaged or lost items. If you own a lot of expensive electronics, artwork, or fine china, you’ll want to splurge for full insurance from third party vendors so you can get the full cost back to you if something happens.
  • Rebuying furniture and/or groceries – Chances are, you probably threw out some old pieces of furniture and whatever groceries you weren’t able to eat or pack. In addition to the standard moving costs, you’ll also have to factor in how much you’ll need to spend to replace the old food and furniture that you tossed.
  • Utilities – You may end up paying double for utilities because you didn’t shut off your utility services in time. Make sure to check your billing cycle and cancel what you don’t need beforehand. While it might not be doable with your electricity bills, you can definitely turn off your cable and internet before you move to your new place. Speaking of utilities, some companies might also require a deposit when you first move into your new apartment in order to turn on your service.
  • Pet boarding – if you have pets, it might be a good idea to find a place to board your pets so that they’re not dealing with all the stress of moving day. Depending on where you live, this can run you up to $40-60 a day!

Create a Better Budget Before Your Move

Many people ask whether they should hire professional movers or rent a truck and do everything themselves. The answer to that question depends on your budget. In general, the DIY route will be cheaper, but it will also take more time, and you could damage your belongings or yourself during the move. While hiring professionals does cost more, it also means you are not at risk of injuring yourself, and your fragile items are less likely to break.

In general, professional movers range in price depending on how much you will move. In general, the average cost of an in-state move is about $2,300, while the average cost of an interstate move is about $4,300. The farther you travel, the more expensive the move as professional movers charge hourly for their travel costs. And don’t forget the tip for the movers!

With that baseline number in mind, look up the cost of packing supplies, furniture, and anything else you will need during your move. Depending on the size of your move and whether you need storage or not, you could be looking at a budget of almost $10,000. When coming up with the final budget, it helps to spreadsheet and write out each line item. This way, you can see where you might be able to slash costs. One easy way to save money when using professional movers is to pack and disassemble everything yourself. Since most movers charge an hourly rate, the less they have to do, the cheaper it will be for you!

Make the Best Plan to Save, Save, and Save Money

Sometimes you might need to move out of your apartment immediately, so you can’t really make any plans. In cases like these, you might need to take out a personal loan or ask friends and family to help out with the costs, whether by pitching in some money or enlisting them to help with the manual labor of packing and moving. However, if you do have some time to consider your move, you should do your best to save. Again, moving isn’t cheap, so you’ll need to set aside some money to make sure you can cover all the necessary costs.

Moving out of an apartment isn’t quite the same as moving out of a house. In general, renters don’t start looking for an apartment until a month before their lease runs out. After all, most brokers want to rent empty apartments as soon as possible and won’t hold an apartment for you, unless you plan on paying two rents.

 

Monthly Saving Plan Before Moving Day

Home Type Estimated Total Moving Budget Save 3 Months Before Save 2 Months Before Save 1 Month Before
Studio Apartment $2,500 – $4,000 $800 – $1,300 $800 – $1,300 $900 – $1,400
1-Bedroom Apartment $3,500 – $5,500 $1,100 – $1,800 $1,100 – $1,800 $1,300 – $1,900
2-Bedroom Apartment $5,000 – $7,500 $1,600 – $2,500 $1,600 – $2,500 $1,800 – $2,500
3-Bedroom Apartment $6,500 – $9,500 $2,100 – $3,100 $2,100 – $3,100 $2,300 – $3,300
Small House $8,000 – $12,000 $2,600 – $4,000 $2,600 – $4,000 $2,800 – $4,000
Large House $10,000 – $15,000+ $3,300 – $5,000 $3,300 – $5,000 $3,400 – $5,000+

 

With that said, if you already know you won’t renew your lease a couple of months before it expires, you should start setting aside some money. Maybe that means being super frugal for three or four months and cancelling whatever memberships you don’t need. Or it could mean selling off some items that are no longer used on eBay or Craigslist. You can also start collecting boxes from friends, family members, or local stores to cut down on your moving supply line items. If you have extra time and a talent such as writing, art, etc., see if you can make a few extra bucks on the side. You can also save money after moving by buying used instead of new. There are plenty of people trying to get rid of old furniture and even clothes. Just make sure that they’re in good shape before you buy, and give everything you purchase a good wash and sterilization before you bring it into your home. Essentially, you need to do whatever you can to make sure you have all the money you need before you move, so you don’t have to put everything on a credit card.

Taking Out a Personal Loan Is Better Than Using a Credit Card

If you end up short of your budget a month before your moving day, consider taking out a personal loan instead of charging your credit card. Credit cards have obscenely high interest rates, with some as high as 36%. Personal loans offer much lower rates depending on your credit history, with some as low as 3%.

Of course, you’ll need to do your research. You should try to avoid peer lending companies, as you will end up with variable rates depending on who chooses to give you the money. Other lending companies might not be available in your state or might have to charge additional fees due to your location. Still, it’s worth it to look up every option available, as you will save a significant amount of money over time with this option.

If you can’t get a personal loan, consider opening up a new line of credit. Many credit cards offer an introductory 0% APR for the first year. This is a great option if you know you are able to pay off the balance in one year. Depending on your credit card score, your credit card limit could be between $2,000-$10,000.

Hire Professional NJ Movers

Moving might not be cheap, but it doesn’t have to break the bank either. So long as you spend some time planning and saving up money for your move, you should be able to find a way to finance your NJ move.

One of the best ways to save yourself time and money is to hire an NJ moving company like us to help you! We provide excellent service at affordable rates and can save you a lot of time and reduce the stress of moving. Make sure to contact us today!

Categories
Moving Tips

Simple Ways to Save Money During Your Move

Simple Ways to Save Money During Your Move

No matter how you look at it, moving is expensive. Of course, there’s the actual moving aspect, but there’s a lot more to it than just getting your belongings from one place to another. Luckily, that also means Simple Ways to Save Money During Your Move. If you’re looking for tips on how to reduce the cost of your move without needing to cut corners, you’ve come to the right place. Below are some simple and effective ways you can save money on your move.

Declutter Your Old Furniture and Belongings to Save Money

The more items you have, the more it will cost you to move. That’s why one of the simplest ways to save money is to declutter your belongings and get rid of items you no longer use. As a rule of thumb, you should follow the six-month rule. If you haven’t used or worn an item in six months, you should not bring it with you to your new home.

Decluttering is an important step for any move, whether you’re moving locally or cross-country. However, it’s an especially important step for long-distance moves. If you are moving over 400 miles away from your current location, consider getting rid of all your heavy, cheap furniture. You’ll find that it’s probably easier and cheaper to buy new furniture when you arrive at your destination.

 

How Decluttering Reduces Moving Costs (Item Count vs Price)

Number of Boxes Removed Weight Reduced (lbs) Truck Size Downgrade Labor Hours Saved Estimated Dollar Savings Long-Distance Cost Impact
5–10 boxes 200–350 lbs No change 0.5–1 hour $75–$150 Minor reduction
10–20 boxes 350–700 lbs Small → Medium possible 1–2 hours $150–$300 $200–$400 saved
20–30 boxes 700–1,100 lbs Medium → Large avoided 2–3 hours $300–$600 $500–$900 saved
30–50 boxes 1,100–1,800 lbs Large → Medium downgrade 3–5 hours $600–$1,200 $1,000–$1,800 saved
50+ boxes 1,800+ lbs Extra truck eliminated 5–8 hours $1,200–$2,500+ $2,000–$4,000+ saved

 

While decluttering, you should separate your belongings into four piles: keep, donate, sell, and trash. You should keep your trash pile as small as possible, as you can probably donate the majority of your items so long as they are still in good shape. When it comes to selling items, see if you have any high-value items that might sell well on eBay, such as vintage clothes, cameras, working appliances, etc. It might take you longer, but depending on the condition of the item, you could earn a decent amount of money that you can then put towards your moving expenses.

Of course, if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of selling items individually online, you can always have a yard or garage sale to get rid of all your unwanted items. It’s a great way to clear out your house, and while you won’t be able to charge quite as much as you would on online sites, you can still make a good chunk of change.

For all your other items, donate as much as you can to Goodwill. Don’t forget to ask for an itemized receipt! You’ll be able to claim a tax deduction at the end of the year. For everything else, try to give away as much as possible. Ask your friends and family if they want anything. After they have taken what they want, list whatever items are left for free on Craigslist and your local Facebook group. As they say, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure!

Get Free Boxes and Packing Materials for Your Move

A lot of people forget to include the cost of packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, etc. After all, it’s easy to get caught up in figuring out the other moving logistics. However, you can save yourself some hefty moving costs if you can find a way to get free boxes and packing materials. Hopefully, you have at least a month or two before your planned move-out date. If you have any boxes leftover from online shopping, keep them!

If you don’t have any boxes, reach out to your friends and family to see if they have any they want off their hands. Otherwise, you can visit other places such as the liquor store, around the office, or a local school to see if they might have any. You can also check your local Facebook group. The same can be done for packing supplies such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts! Try to gather as much as you can for free and then purchase whatever you are missing. If you’re lucky, you may not have to spend much, if any money at all!

Consider Your Utilities

Some utilities won’t let you prorate your bill, so if your billing cycle doesn’t line up with your moving date, consider cutting off your service early so you don’t have to pay for an extra month. While you don’t want to cut off your electricity too soon, you can definitely live a week or two without cable or the internet. If you only have to deal with a day or two, consider shutting off your gas early as well.

If you’re moving to a new city, do some research on what is available. Some cities offer a free concierge service that will find you the best deals on your utilities. Also, make sure to take advantage of the new customer deals that many cable and internet providers offer.

Hire the Best Professional Movers for Your Move

Yes, hiring professional movers can actually cost you less in the long run than trying to do it yourself. For example, if you live in New Jersey, you can find some very affordable NJ movers who will be able to make your experience seamless and stress-free. Professional New Jersey movers have years of experience moving pretty much everything from pianos to delicate china. Therefore, they know exactly how each should be handled so that everything arrives in perfect condition at your new home.

 

Professional Movers vs DIY Moving – True Cost Comparison

Cost Factor Professional Movers DIY Moving Hidden Cost Risk
Truck / Vehicle Included in quote $150–$350 rental Mileage & late return fees
Labor Trained, insured crew Friends or hired help Injuries, delays
Packing Equipment Dollies, straps, pads included $75–$200 rental/purchase Improper handling damage
Fuel & Tolls Included $80–$200+ Underestimated mileage
Damage Protection Insurance coverage Out-of-pocket Furniture & property damage
Time Required 4–8 hours (average) 10–16+ hours Lost wages, fatigue
Total Estimated Cost $600–$1,200 $500–$1,500+ Often underestimated

 

Of course, when you hire professionals, you get much more than people to move your stuff. You also get the peace of mind that if any accidents happen during the move, you won’t be held liable. Did the movers damage the freight elevator? They will cover the repair costs through their insurance. Did the movers get a parking ticket? You don’t have to worry about it! More importantly, you don’t have to run the risk of injuring yourself during the move, as you won’t have to carry anything heavy. This way, you can relax and just deal with unpacking once you get to your new home.

The best part about hiring professional movers is that there are a lot to choose from. You can shop around to find the best local movers for your budget. Just make sure to ask plenty of questions. If you get a bad feeling from them, move on to another company.

Ship Your Books Safely

If you have a veritable library and can’t part with any of your books, consider shipping them instead of moving them. While it might take a bit longer to arrive, you’ll be saving on time and backbreaking work for the movers. USPS offers a Medial Mail service that allows for shipments of up to 20 pounds. That price is hard to beat!

Get Moving Insurance to Save Money

Most professional movers offer basic moving insurance that covers $0.60 per pound if an item is damaged or lost. While this might be fine for items that aren’t expensive, it won’t get close to covering the cost of more expensive items such as TVs, cameras, laptops, fine china, etc. While most trustworthy NJ movers will do their best to make sure nothing gets damaged, accidents can happen.

While it might cost a bit extra, getting full moving insurance can give you the peace of mind you need, especially if you own a lot of electronics or expensive items. As the name suggests, full moving insurance means that you will be covered for the full amount in case something gets damaged or lost. That means you don’t have to worry about buying a replacement should anything happen, saving you money in the long run.

Conclusion

While you won’t be able to bring your moving costs down to zero, you can greatly reduce the amount you spend by following these simple tips. Speaking of tips, here’s one you often hear: wrap your fragile items in bedsheets, towels, clothes, etc. While it can work, remember that you will need to wash all of these items once you unpack! Plus, if anything breaks, you’ll need to worry about glass shards in your sheets or towels!

Moving will never be easy, but hopefully these tips can at least make it less costly. If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable mover in New Jersey, make sure to contact us! We service the Tri-State area and can provide you with a quote within a few days of your request!