Surprisingly, no! For most house moves, you can keep everything inside as is, although we’d recommend taking out any sentimental or extremely fragile items. You’ll need to fully empty your basement or crawl space, but otherwise, your home can be moved with everything intact. Your movers will also be able to provide you with further guidance. 

A DIY move is cheaper than paying movers. However, hiring professional movers can save you time and stress.

There are several effective ways to save money when hiring a moving company, primarily by handling some tasks yourself and being strategic with scheduling. Consider these methods:

• Pack Your Own Belongings: You can significantly reduce costs by packing and protecting your items yourself. This includes wrapping delicate items, organizing them into boxes, and taping the boxes closed. You can use towels, clothes, and suitcases to pack belongings and protect breakables.

• Provide Your Own Materials: Source free packing materials from friends and family, or reuse boxes and bubble wrap from a previous move.

• Schedule Strategically: Book your move well in advance. Rates are often lower if you schedule your move on a weekday during the off-season, which typically runs from October through April.

• Compare Quotes: Get moving quotes from at least three professional movers in your area. This allows you to compare services and choose the best value.

• Ask for Discounts: Inquire if the moving company offers any special coupons or deals.

• Purchase Moving Insurance: Protect your investment by purchasing moving insurance, especially for expensive or antique belongings.

• Divide the Labor: While you can save money by packing, it's wise to leave the more dangerous and physically demanding work—like loading, unloading, and moving heavy furniture—to the professionals.

If you’re moving locally, pack up your condiments in a cooler and move them in your car or moving truck so you can put them in the fridge as soon as you arrive at your new place. For long-distance moves, use up or empty out all opened condiments or give them to your neighbors. Pack unopened condiments in a box or give them away if you don’t want to move them.