The Hidden Costs of DIY Moving and College Storage

When it comes to moving and summer storage for college students, it's tempting to go the DIY route and handle everything on your own. After all, you'll save money, right? 

Not necessarily. 

DIY moving and storage can come with hidden costs that can quickly add up financially and emotionally. As a college student, you're likely on a tight budget and can't afford to make costly mistakes. That's where Storage Scholars comes in. In this blog post, we'll explore the hidden costs of DIY moving and storage and how Storage Scholars can help you avoid them while keeping your moving experience simple without breaking your back or going broke. 

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Time is Money

One of the greatest hidden costs of DIY moving is time. Moving is incredibly time-consuming, and the more time you spend on it, the less time you have for other important things like studying for final exams and making your summer plans. 

Before the day of your move, you'll need to make a run to the store for boxes and packing supplies. When moving day comes, plan to spend your day carrying boxes and furniture downstairs and into a vehicle. If you've managed to enlist your family and friends to help, remember that they'll be giving up their precious time too. If picking up a moving truck is not in the day's plan, you can expect to take 2-3 trips to the storage unit before the day is up, maybe more. Think you're done? Think again! You'll do this all over again when you move back in at the end of your summer. 

Thank goodness for Storage Scholars! - We take ALL of the time-consuming tasks off your plate. No driving to the store for boxes because we'll supply everything right on campus. No hauling heavy items. We'll do that all for you. No asking friends, we'll bring ours. No driving to storage units –that's our job. And best of all, no worrying when you move back in because we'll deliver everything to your door before your first day of class.  

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Equipment Costs

When you decide to DIY, you often don't realize all the small things you need to execute your move. Moving requires purchasing or renting specialized equipment like moving trucks, dollies, and packing materials. These costs can quickly add up, especially if you underestimate the necessary equipment. Last minute trips to the store can be a burden but waiting can also leave you empty handed since that's often when stores have bare shelves.

Thank goodness for Storage Scholars! All of the unexpected extras that are needed when moving are included when you sign up. We'll drive the moving trucks and bring our expert movers, dollies, ramps, and whatever is needed to get the job done; we've got it! Packing supplies like boxes, tape, labels, and even bubble wrap are complimentary, so you can take as much of it as needed. We'll even throw in some fun Storage Scholars merch because we love what we do and appreciate your business. 

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Potential for Damage

Moving and storing items on your own increases the likelihood of damage to your belongings. Bumping furniture down a flight of heavy stairs, forgetting to label your fragile boxes, or needing more bubble wrap to wrap your electronics securely. It never fails when you do it yourself! This can result in costly repairs or replacements, not to mention the emotional toll of losing sentimental items.

Thank goodness for Storage Scholars–we've got you covered in many ways. First, we hire and train the best of the best. Our team of movers will treat your belongings with the highest level of care, ensuring your items make it from point A to point B without damage. We'll encourage you to take more than enough bubble wrap on your campus' distribution days to wrap every fragile item you own. We'll even provide you with tried and true packing tips to ensure your items are well-protected during transit.  

But we also realize that accidents can happen. Like you, we're human! That's why we also offer $100 of complimentary insurance on every item you store with us (and the option to add more on higher valued items). It's peace of mind knowing we'll do our best and make up for it when something happens.  

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Transportation Costs

If you're moving to college long-distance, the cost of transportation can be high when doing the move yourself. Gas, tolls, and lodging expenses can add up quickly, and that's not even considering the potential for unexpected breakdowns or delays. Plus, your parents are likely taking time off work to help. And most importantly are you experienced in operating a moving truck? Being a great driver is one thing, but taking the wheel of a U-Haul is a whole different ball game. Inexperience can lead to accidents or fines for violating traffic laws or parking regulations.

Thank goodness for Storage Scholars! We have a unique solution when moving to college: Ship to School! We'll ship you the boxes; you can send us everything you need for college. Box up your belongings or order online, and we will deliver everything to your new door. You'll only need to worry about transporting yourself to college. We will take care of everything else for a lot less than it would cost to DIY. And the best part is you never have to set foot inside a moving truck (unless you want a selfie with our talented movers!).

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Not using Climate-Controlled Storage

It's tempting to take your roommate up on her offer to store your stuff in her parents' garage or your parents' offer to leave your belongings in the basement all summer. Just know that a cheap storage solution could cost you in the end.

Storage units were designed with the elements in mind. Keeping units climate-controlled helps to preserve the items in storage. Four months of a humid summer can damage furniture and electronics and risk the potential for mold or mildew to take form leading to insects and rodents. Water damage in basements or garages is all too common, and we're pretty sure your roommate doesn't offer you insurance with her free storage. 

Thank goodness for Storage Scholars! Storage Scholars offers climate-controlled storage, which protects your belongings from temperature extremes, humidity, and pests. This reduces the likelihood of damage and the need for costly repairs or replacements. We've partnered with SIRVA, the leader in worldwide moving. Their state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with the industry's best security, privacy, and climate control.

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Final Thoughts

While DIY moving and storage may seem cheaper, it often comes with hidden costs that can quickly add up. By choosing Storage Scholars for your college storage needs, you can avoid these hidden costs while enjoying the convenience and expertise of a professional moving and storage company. So don't let hidden costs add to your already busy college life - choose Storage Scholars for your moving and storage needs and make the smart choice. In the end, can you afford not to?

To reserve a spot with us for your upcoming move, visit our website or call us today. 

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