Moving can be extremely expensive. Even small moves from one city to the neighbouring city can cost a small fortune, especially if you’ve foregone a budget and procrastinated. But, if you have time to research to find a moving company in Richmond Hill, ON and plan accordingly, you stand to save a lot of money.

First, keep in mind that the costs associated with moving go far beyond the packing supplies and rental fees. Often, there are also travel expenses, cleaning supplies and services, security/pet/utility deposits, storage unit rental, meals while travelling, lodging expenses (particularly for those traveling a great distance by vehicle), and so on. Make a list of anything you can think of related to your move—before, during, and after—so you have a clearer understanding of the money required.

Second, know that you may need to save up. As soon as possible, set aside funds to help yourself chip away at the expenses, preemptively. Here are a few ideas to help you earn additional funds in your free time:

• Income from a yard sale. Ask your friends to pitch-in items they don’t want—the bigger the sale, the more visitors/customers you’ll have.
• Earnings from selling a vehicle you no longer need.
• Rental deposit return. This applies to current renters. Yes, you will likely have to wait until after you’ve vacated your apartment, but it’s helpful!
• Hold a bake sale (if you know your way around the kitchen).
• Bring gently used clothing and shoes you no longer wear to a nearby consignment store.

Thirdly, there are ways to save money—without compromising your sanity—during the moving process you may have considered:

• Ask friends and coworkers if they have boxes and/or totes they could give or lend you.
• Look for moving boxes at local businesses: grocery and liquor stores, office buildings, etc.
• Move during the “off-season.” Often times there are moving discounts with moving companies in Richmond Hill, ON for scheduling during the winter or mid-week.
• Rather than purchasing bubble wrap or packing paper, use newspapers, used/ripped gift wrapping, tissue paper, bath towels, and rags.
• Take measurements at the new home prior to your move to make sure you aren’t paying a moving company to transport furniture that won’t fit.
• Round up friends and family to help you sort, pack, and label.
• Use a moving company. Rental trucks and doing everything yourself adds up. Often, you will need more time off work, experience unforeseen expenses, and load improperly, which may result in shifts and damages during transport.

I’ve handled many moves both personally and professionally, and I can tell you that there are specific questions you must ask when vetting a moving company. Asking these five questions will help lead you to the right movers:

1. How long have you been in business? Do not choose a brand-new company.
2. Do you have experience with my specific type of move?
3. What services do you provide and are there discounts on “bundling?”
4. What type of coverage/insurance do you provide?
5. Do you give on-site estimates?

ABS Movers & Storage looks forward to becoming your trusted Richmond Hill, ON moving company. Give us a call at (416) 588-1499 or visit us at 17 Dora Avenue, Toronto, ON M6H 1J5 to discuss your upcoming move.