Saving money on a move is always a great idea, but two in three Americans may be trying to save money in a way that could be detrimental to their wallets, backs and friendships, according to a survey conducted by Allied Van Lines, a market leader in household 558 goods moving and storage. The survey found two-thirds of Americans hope to save money on their move by going it alone instead of hiring a professional moving company.
Hiring professional movers can often cost the same as doing it yourself - but without all the hassle.558
People with little or no experience moving can run into trouble pretty quickly when they try to move themselves
"Many people don't realize the chance they take when moving on their own, which can leave them with significant risk for injury, loss and, in the end, costly mistakes they just can't afford," said Bill Lyon, vice president and general manager of Allied Van Lines.
To head off potentially costly mistakes and help consumers stick to their budgets during tight times, Allied is kicking off the start of the busy moving season (May - September) with money-saving tips and advice.
Save Money
Too many people think they need to move on their own to save money. Fortunately, there are many ways to save on a move, from selling or donating your most difficult-to-move items, to packing yourself, to moving on a Tuesday.
"People with little or no experience moving can run into trouble pretty quickly when they try to move themselves," said Steve McKenna, vice president of pricing and contracts for Allied Van Lines. "Self-movers are more likely to dent walls and floors, and damage their home and belongings."
And do-it-yourself (DIY) movers rarely factor in all the extra costs involved with moving like furniture padding, carpet and floor protection materials, insurance for their belongings and truck, and time and costs for disassembling and reassembling furniture.
In addition, reliable moving companies with skilled customer service and sales representatives can help you develop and stick to a budget. You can ask for advice on things like packing, getting proper coverage for your belongings, storage options, and optimal times to move.
You can also ask for guaranteed pricing. Allied offers a Total Price Guarantee (TPG) for consumers interested in locking in a pre-determined price on the estimated weight of their shipment. If you choose this option, be sure to sell or giveaway unused, unwanted or heavier items before the moving company salesperson visits your home, so they can create an accurate estimate on your lighter shipment. It's also a good option for people who live in homes that can be a challenge to reach with a large moving truck - for example, on a dead-end or narrow street or for homes that back to alleyways.
"Those homes need a special shuttle to move items from the larger moving truck onto a smaller truck to reach the home," McKenna said. "Most moving companies charge a shuttle destination fee, which can run from $300 to $500. Our TPG program doesn't charge for a shuttle at destination."
Save Your Back
One of the greatest risks for DIY movers is injury. Belongings in the average-sized home weigh about 3,000 lbs. total, with the average couch weighing 150 to 300 lbs. while a refrigerator weighs close to 450 lbs. Recent information from the American College of Sports Medicine revealed that 80 percent of all adults will suffer a back injury in their lifetime and that back injuries are more common during times of stress - such as during a move. Lost wages and medical bills can cost significantly more than using professional movers.
"Trained moving professionals can negotiate a pool table around a corner or a piano down a staircase without damaging your home, your belongings or their backs," Lyon said. "We recommend saving your energy and back for completing the long to-do list for settling into your new home."
Save Your Friendships
People moving smaller households often tap their friends and relatives to help get the job done, but that can be a disaster waiting to happen. The stress of a move can test even the strongest of friendships. Allied Van Lines offers a unique, value-priced moving package - Allied Express - specifically designed for smaller moves (around 2,000 lbs.) that costs about the same as a DIY move.
"In the end, you'll get professional moving services that take care of the essentials while helping to keep your friendships in good standing," Lyon said.
For more tips on reducing your moving costs, visit www.allied.com/moneysmart. In addition, Allied wants to help offset the costs associated with settling into your new home. Every consumer who registers for a free moving estimate with Allied during June, July and August, will be entered into a monthly drawing to win a $300 Lowe's® gift card. To register for a free moving estimate for your next move, visit www.allied.com/moneysmart and complete the "Free Moving Quote" form. You can also call 866-575-3563 to register for a free moving estimate or obtain more information on moving with Allied Van Lines.
About Allied Van Lines
Established in 1928, Allied Van Lines, with more than 500 agent locations in North America, is an experienced leader in household goods moving and specialized transportation services. Allied is one of the established global brands of SIRVA Inc., a leader in providing relocation services to corporations, consumers and governments around the world. For more information about Allied Van Lines, visit www.allied.com.
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