About Self Service Moving
With typical “do-it-yourself” or “self service” moving, a moving company located within Toronto or the GTA will drop off your requirements (e.g. container, pod, bin, or crate) at your home and then you would simply pack and load your items into the storage bin provided. And after you’re done loading, you call the moving company and they’ll have their driver come back to your home and transport the storage bin to your new location. When you choose to utilize “do-it-yourself” moving services, you’ll save money on the labour and packing fees which would normally be charged by the movers, and so it’s a great avenue to consider if you’re on a tight budget.
Types of Self Service Moving Services
The first type of “self service” moving services occurs when you rent a moving truck and handle the packing, loading and transport all by yourself. This is the most cost effective form of “do-it-yourself” moving services, simply because there’s a direct correlation between a mover’s time consumed and your money.
The second kind of self service moving service occurs when you would hire a moving company only to transport your items to the new location- but you would pack, load, and unload all of the items yourself. Again, time is money- the more you do yourself, the more you’ll save!
Tips on Self Moving
The first thing you can do is create a list of all of the tasks that need to be done such as clean out the kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, mopping and sweeping the floors, packing items then labeling boxes, and having your address changed and utilities transferred. Be sure that your items are packed before the moving container is dropped off cause you’ll most likely be paying for that container on your driveway on a daily rate, or an hourly rate if it’s a moving truck.
Things to Consider When Renting a Moving Truck
Here are a few pointers when deciding to rent a moving truck. The first thing to think about is if you are able to drive certain kinds of moving trucks that the company offers based on their weight classifications (e.g. in Ontario there are 15 difference licence classes). To learn more, visit: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/
Other things to consider is your budget and the amount of items you need to transport. Keep in mind that you’ll be filling up the tank with gas or diesel out of your own pocket, so the costs of fuel will add up when deciding on the type of moving truck.
Places to Get Cheap Moving Supplies
Since you are using a self service moving service, you’ll have to get your own moving supplies. If you want cheap (or free) packing supplies, start by visiting nearby supermarkets across the GTA because they’ll have corrugated cardboard boxes ready for recycling that you can pick up for free. And if you don’t mind spending a bit of money, check out a big box office supply store to obtain discounted packing supplies.
In summary, self service moving services is a great way to save money, and it’s important to research different Toronto movers to determine which one is the best for your needs. Finally, plan your move as early as possible to reduce stress.
