By doing some strategizing beforehand, you’ll free up valuable time and brainpower to focus on what’s going on with YOU.
When it comes to planning and pulling off a local move without any hiccups, there are a few options to consider. Do you go it alone or bribe your friends? Or maybe you splurge on a moving service.
Here’s how to decide which route you should take.
Option 1: Renting a Moving Truck and Doing the Rest Yourself
If you’re the DIY type, you may be tempted to rent a moving truck and take care of the rest yourself. This avenue can definitely save you some cash—and avoid the awkwardness of asking friends for help.
But it could be taxing on your body and mind. Some parts of your move might be impossible without an extra set of hands. That being said, you’ll definitely get a heck of a workout and a pretty sweet sense of accomplishment when you pull it off!
Do beware, however, that what may sound like a simple DIY moving day can turn into an absolute ordeal. Moving almost always takes longer than anticipated, and unexpected complications like heavy traffic, stops for gas or irregularly shaped furniture, may set you back time- and energy-wise.
Moving tip: If you plan to move alone, do a thorough inventory of your possessions, and map out a realistic plan for the day to ensure it’s a survivable undertaking.
Pros:
- Free (unless you rent a truck)
- You don’t have to ask anyone for help
Cons:
- Physically demanding
- Takes a lot of time
- Not always feasible
Option 2: Asking Your Friends for Help
Another option—and certainly one to consider if you’re a budget-conscious mover—is to ask for help from your friends. In addition to the obvious bonus of “free” movers, this avenue may also save you time since you’ll have additional hands on deck.
And if you happen to have a friend with a van or truck, you could also save on a rental.
This option does, however, have some major drawbacks. One of your buds might flake last minute, and even if all of your hired hands show up, the move could be more demanding and time-consuming than you had originally anticipated. If this turns out to be the case, you might have some less-than-happy helpers at the end of the day.
It’s also important to consider the worst-case scenario: the unfortunate possibility that someone gets hurt in the process.
Good-friend tip: Always compensate your crew, as they will have done you quite the favor! Depending on how grueling the move was, some pizzas and fizzy refreshments might even do the trick.
Pros:
- Free labor—saves money
- Saves a lot of time
- More fun to do with friends than alone or with movers
Cons:
- Having to ask your buds for help
- Possibility of no-shows
- Planning your move around your friends’ schedules
Everything you need to do when you move out >
Option 3: Hiring Budget Movers
We’ve all seen the Craigslist ads and posted fliers for ‘Moving Services’ that are just muscles with a truck. Services like these are usually relatively low-cost, and they relieve the moving pressure from your shoulders.
While they’re handy, they also lack many benefits of professional moving services. If something goes wrong and any of your belongings are lost or damaged, there’s no guarantee that you’ll receive appropriate compensation.
They also tend to only offer basic services, so if you need storage or packing materials, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Pros:
- Someone else will do the heavy lifting—literally
- Budget-friendly
- Saves time
Cons:
- Uninsured
- No storage or packing
- The risk of movers who aren’t professional, reliable or trustworthy
Option 4: College Student Storage
Another way to go is to enlist the services of a professional and college-specific full-service moving company.
College Student Services is based in Boulder and operates on most major Colorado campuses, specializing in taking care of your move for you. That means less work and time required by you.
While there are costs associated with this option, as with any moving service, it also takes the pressure off you and your begrudgingly helpful friends.
This is a great choice if you’re pressed for time and need help with your own move while juggling your other commitments. We also offer storage and packing materials (delivered to your door) in conjunction with moving services.
Pros:
- Relieves the work from your shoulders
- Saves time
- Offers storage and packing options
Cons:
- Not free
It’s your move! Plan accordingly and make sure the option you select is the best match for your needs. Don’t forget that your schoolwork, work-work, family commitments, and general well-being are top priorities, even when you have a big move looming just around the corner.
