As you get ready for your move, you may be considering going fully DIY because you think you can't afford to hire residential movers. But the surprising fact is that hiring professional movers can actually save you money (and time).

Think about all the time it will take you to pack and move all the stuff in your house. And if you happen to break things in the process, consider all those additional costs. While hiring movers is not exactly cheap, there are various tips and tricks you can use to save money. Here are 4 of them!

Be Prepared

This is a simple tip, but it can save you a lot of money. If you have decided to do all the packing, have all the work finished by the time the movers arrive at your home. Disassemble your furniture items, such as beds, and stack boxes near your front door to reduce the time the movers would spend moving up and downstairs. 

Remember, professional movers usually charge at an hourly rate. The less time they spend on your move, the less money you're likely to pay. So, have everything ready to go!

Consider Custom Crating Services

Maybe you have decided to pack your belongings, but you don't have the expertise or materials to pack some of your valuable items. Artwork pieces, antiques, glassware, and expensive electronics are some items that may fall into this category. If that's the case, ask your movers about custom crating services for just these pieces.

Of course, you will pay some money for the additional help. But your valuable items will remain safe and protected throughout the move, so you don't incur any damage costs. Besides, your moving company will offer insurance coverage for these items, in case the unexpected happens.

Get Rid of Those Items You No Longer Need

It's simple; the more things you have, the longer it will take movers to pack and move, the more room they will occupy in the truck, and the more you'll pay. Hence, consider getting rid of things you no longer want or need. 

Anything that is broken, out of date, or not useful can be discarded or sold as second-hand items. You can donate your old clothes or extra food supplies to charity. If you have some cheap heavy furniture or appliances, you might also find it more economical to sell them and purchase new ones at your destination, instead of paying to move them. 

Ask About Seasonal Rates

Like any other business, residential movers often charge higher prices when demand is high. If you're not moving in a hurry, ask them if there is a cheaper period, month, or season to move in. 

Generally, most people move on end-month, so you could save some money by moving mid-month. Also, most moves happen on weekends, when people are out of work, so it could be financially worth taking a day (or two) off work to move on a weekday. 

For more information, contact movers near you.