
Moving to Uni on a Budget: Cost-Saving Strategies for Coming to Sheffield
This blog post is a collaboration between SDP Student Homes and Hallam Removals. SDP Student Homes is a local business that shares our love of all things Sheffield.
Being a student and budgeting go hand in hand. Managing your finances can be challenging, whether relocating to a new Sheffield student house, a shared apartment, or moving from back home. Our latest blog will discuss effective cost-saving strategies to ensure your move to a new home is smooth and budget-friendly.
Create a Plan
A successful student house move requires some serious planning ahead of time. Compile a checklist of tasks to tackle before, during, and after your relocation. You may even need a few checklists! Your big-picture strategy should include finding a new place, packing your belongings, arranging transportation, and researching removal services if you plan to hire one.
Declutter Your Space
Moving is an excellent opportunity to declutter and take stock of your possessions. You can generate significant extra income by selling clothes, furniture, and appliances you no longer use but are still in good condition. Online platforms like Vinted (no fees) and eBay (fees) can help you sell items quickly and at decent prices! For items you don’t sell, consider donating them to local charities or recycling them. You don’t have to travel light, but you do need to travel smart.
Gather Packing Supplies
Contact friends, family, and local businesses to see if they have spare boxes. Supermarkets, bookstores, and offices often have cardboard boxes they will give away. Suitcases can be very useful in these situations. Items like towels, blankets, and clothing can cushion fragile belongings.
Choose Transportation Wisely
If you have many items to move and are considering hiring a student removal company, research and select the most economical and secure option. If you’re leaning towards renting a truck or van, ask friends who are also moving if they’d like to share and split costs.
Essentials for Moving Day
Moving day can be tiring and lengthy. To maintain your energy, instead of splurging on junk food, prepare your lunch in advance to save money. This point may sound trivial, but it will be a long day! If you need moving tools like trolleys and furniture sliders, ask friends, neighbours, or your student accommodation’s reception for help instead of buying or renting them. If you go down the student removal route, you won’t need these tools as they will supply all the above.
Settling into Your New Home
Set up your broadband and utilities ahead of time. Properly scheduling start and end dates can help avoid overlap or late fees. Some companies offer student discounts, so inquire and research before selecting your plan. Finding new furniture that complements your new space can be costly. Explore charity shops and online marketplaces like eBay and Facebook Marketplace to find second-hand furniture, appliances, and decorations at more affordable prices. If your student accommodation is already fully furnished, then you are sorted!
Moving on a budget is entirely feasible. Planning effectively and utilising your available resources wisely allows you to transition and settle into your new home without overspending. Using a student removal company may save you money in the long run, so consider this option. Happy moving!