Cleveland Movers

CLEVELAND -- Whether you're moving across town, across the country, or simply moving your college student back to school -- moving can be a hassle. It can also be a big expense unless you know how to find the best deal.

But before you pay someone to move your belongings, there are things you can do to make sure your money isn't left behind.

"I would take my personal stuff, bring as much as I can, until I can't take anymore," Rochelle Womack said.

That's exactly Womack did. And then she called Apartment Movers.

Philip Stephens of Apartment Movers said, "We charge by the piece and if we take four to five hours to move, they get a set rate."

But before Womack signed up, she called around. Get quotes in person -- that's the quickest way to save money on your move.

And if you want to save even more, pack yourself.

"If you take our cost from a moving company you're going to cut the cost in a third," Alissa Nider of U-Haul explained.

At U-Haul you can buy by the box or bunch, but the truth is, you don't even have to pay for your boxes.

Nider said, "We have a take a box, leave a box program."

And most moving companies, like Armbruster Mayflower, will also give you used boxes if you're using their services. But there is one box you may want to buy new.

"(Glassware boxes) will save your china and your dishware from having to be replaced at the end," Nider said.

Splurge on the packing supplies for your fragile items.

If you having something really pricey like oil paintings, large glass or marble tops, or plasma TVs, Lori Haberman with Armbruster said those items are better left for movers to pack and insure. Or you may consider taking them yourself.

Haberman said, "Some of those things can be moved in your car to save money."

Most in-town movers charge by the hour, so you need to make sure boxes are stacked and everything is ready when the movers arrive.

Haberman recommends putting all your boxes in one room or the garage.

Also, clearly mark your boxes so there's no question about where things go when it's time to unload.

Because she planned and packed ahead, Womack's move cost just $220.

And remember, it's important to tip your movers. They're taking home only a tiny percentage of your moving cost.

Also consider having cold water, or maybe even a snack, available for them.

Get moving day tips.