Moving homes can be an exciting but costly endeavor, whether you're a civilian relocating or a military service member preparing for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). However, with some careful planning and smart decisions, you can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with the moving process. In this blog, we will share practical tips to help civilians and PCSing soldiers save money while making a home move.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead:
One of the most effective ways to save money on a home move is to start planning as early as possible. Create a checklist, set a budget, and establish a timeline to stay organized. By giving yourself ample time to research, compare prices, and make informed decisions, you can avoid last-minute expenses and take advantage of cost-saving opportunities.
2. Purge and Declutter:
Moving provides an excellent opportunity to declutter your belongings. Take the time to sort through your items and donate, sell, or discard anything you no longer need or want. Fewer belongings mean lower packing and transportation costs. Additionally, selling unwanted items can generate extra funds to offset moving expenses.
3. Obtain Multiple Quotes:
When it comes to hiring professional movers or renting moving trucks, it's essential to obtain multiple quotes. Contact several reputable moving companies or truck rental agencies and compare their prices, services, and customer reviews. Be sure to inquire about any available discounts or promotions that can further reduce your costs. Taking the time to shop around can potentially save you a significant amount of money.
4. DIY Packing:
If you have the time and energy, consider packing your belongings yourself instead of hiring professional packers. Gather packing supplies in advance, such as boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape, which can often be obtained for free from local stores or online marketplaces. By handling the packing process on your own, you can save money on labor costs and ensure that your items are packed to your satisfaction.
5. Utilize Military Resources:
For military service members undergoing a PCS, take advantage of the resources provided by the military. The Personal Property Transportation Office (PTO) offers helpful information on military moves, including access to the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), which allows you to manage your move and track your belongings. Familiarize yourself with the entitlements and benefits available to you, such as Dislocation Allowance (DLA) and Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE), to make the most of your military move.
6. Consider DIY Transportation:
For PCSing soldiers, weigh the pros and cons of a Personally Procured Move (PPM), formerly known as a Do-It-Yourself (DITY) move. Under the PPM program, you have the option to use your own vehicle or rent a moving truck to transport your household goods. By opting for a PPM, you may be eligible for reimbursement based on the weight of your items. However, ensure that you accurately track and document your expenses to claim reimbursement successfully.
7. Notify Service Providers in Advance:
To avoid additional charges or overlapping bills, notify your service providers, such as utility companies, internet service providers, and insurance companies, well in advance of your move. Schedule the disconnection or transfer of services to align with your move-out and move-in dates. By planning ahead, you can avoid unnecessary fees and ensure a seamless transition.
Saving money during a home move is achievable with careful planning, proactive decision-making, and leveraging available resources. Whether you're a civilian or a military service member preparing for a PCS, starting early, decluttering, obtaining multiple quotes, considering DIY options, utilizing military resources, and notifying service providers in advance can significantly reduce your moving expenses. Remember, each cost-saving step
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