FINANCIAL SIDE OF MOVING
-> How to save on a moveJul 10, 16:01
Question by jokanyak (Jo Kanyak)
Here's my plan for a local residential move:
1) 3 BR/2 bath garage and basement
2) Need 10x20 empty pod dropped near Port Huron, MI.
3) Some time later, the filled pod needs to be picked up and moved near West Branch, MI.
4) Time will be needed for both loading and unloading at either end by my own crew.
5) The empty pod will then be removed.
Drop-off schedule is flexible with delivery to West Branch no earlier than August 20 and removal by August 30, 2007. This pod is intended to let me empty the garage, basement, clutter and other stored contents (rarely used or seasonal stuff) out while improving their look for potential buyers.
6) On or after August 20 (when I take posession) I'll rent a truck to remove the remaining contents to my new home.
- Is this a good plan?
- Any tips on timing or extra deals I may be able to take advantage of?
- Does this sound like I'll have enough room?
- Is there a cheaper way?
- Any suggestions or considerations I could take into account to improve the plan?
- Do I need a new plan?
I'm an older retired lady and don't really know what I'm doing - but I'm no coward, either.
-Is it usually cheaper to take the truck back (2.5 hrs e-way one way drive)? I need to get my current residence on the market ASAP or I'll have two house payments!
Jul 11, 00:20
Answer by bobfein (Bob F.)
Your plan sounds like a plan to me.
It will certainly be one of the cheapest plans you will make, given the fact that you also want to take your time to go over all the things you plan to move and get them "back in shape".
I am a bit concerned of course how you will actually move all those things, and who do you plan to drive the truck? Anyway, in the bottom of this answer I will give you some references to resources that might help you with that plan.
Basically, what you are describing is a typical self move, since you plan to use a container (POD). You could of course just rent a bigger truck and move everything at once, but given your time frames it might prove to actually be more expensive than your original plan.
10X20 container gives you some 1600 cubic feet to fill, and for a 3 bedroom plus basement plus garage its about what you need (normally furnished 3 bedrooms contain around 1200 cubic feet worth of household goods). Of course, since you plan to move some stuff with a truck you get a back up in case the POD will get tightly packed.
Of course, all the questions that have to do with the container service itself you should direct to the individual companies that provide that service - each one might have their own terms after all.
Here are some references and extra advise as to how to put your plan to action:
- Loading the POD and the truck: I recommend you to check this thread about a set of educational DVDs about how to pack your stuff in the truck the right way: MovingMadeSimple.net
- Hiring helpers: you should check Moving Labor Services for pricing and availability of helpers in your area.
- Truck rental: we recommend Penske or Budget (check Budget here: Budget Truck Rental line of trucks)
Good luck with your move,
Bob F. @ MovingAnswers.org
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