Moving doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a rental trailer and some DIY effort, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars compared to hiring professional movers. JMJ Trailer Rentals in Fontana, CA has helped countless families and individuals successfully complete DIY moves throughout the Inland Empire. Here are our top money-saving tips.
Why DIY Moving Saves You Money
Professional moving companies typically charge $1,000 to $3,000+ for local moves, with long-distance moves costing even more. When you rent a trailer and do it yourself, your costs drop dramatically:
- Trailer rental – $70-$160 per day depending on size
- Packing supplies – $50-$150 (less if you source free boxes)
- Gas for your vehicle – Variable based on distance
- Pizza and drinks for helpers – $50-$100
Total DIY moving cost: Often under $500 for a local move that professionals would charge $1,500+ to handle.
Planning Your DIY Move
Start Early and Create a Timeline
Don’t wait until the last week to start preparing. A successful DIY move requires:
- 4-6 weeks before – Declutter and donate/sell items you don’t need
- 3-4 weeks before – Gather packing supplies and start packing rarely-used items
- 2 weeks before – Reserve your trailer rental and recruit helpers
- 1 week before – Pack most rooms, confirm trailer reservation
- Day before – Final packing, load non-essentials into trailer if possible
Declutter Before You Pack
The less you move, the less it costs. Before packing a single box:
- Sell valuable items on Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp
- Donate usable items to local charities
- Recycle or dispose of broken items
- Use up pantry items and toiletries instead of moving them
Reducing your load by even 20% means you might fit in a smaller trailer, saving money on your rental.
Getting Free and Cheap Packing Supplies
Packing supplies add up quickly if you buy everything new. Here’s how to save:
Free Boxes
- Liquor stores – Sturdy boxes with dividers (great for glasses)
- Grocery stores – Ask for banana boxes or produce boxes
- Bookstores – Small, sturdy boxes perfect for heavy items
- Facebook Marketplace – Search “free moving boxes” in your area
- Nextdoor app – Neighbors often give away boxes after their moves
- Office supply stores – Paper boxes are uniform and stackable
Packing Material Alternatives
- Use towels, blankets, and clothing to wrap fragile items
- Stuff newspaper or packing paper inside boxes to prevent shifting
- Wrap plates in t-shirts or dish towels
- Use socks to protect glasses and small breakables
Recruiting Help Without Breaking the Bank
You’ll need strong hands on moving day. Here’s how to get help affordably:
- Friends and family – Offer pizza, beer, and a future favor in return
- Moving labor services – Hire day laborers for just the loading/unloading (usually $20-30/hour each)
- College students – Post on local college job boards for affordable help
- Timing matters – People are more available on weekends, but consider taking a weekday off for easier scheduling
Choosing the Right Trailer Size
Selecting the correct trailer saves money and prevents multiple trips:
- Studio/1 bedroom – 5×8 or 6×10 utility trailer ($70/day)
- 2 bedroom apartment – 6×12 enclosed trailer ($85/day)
- 3 bedroom house – 7×14 or larger enclosed trailer ($100+/day)
When in doubt, size up slightly. Paying an extra $15-20 for a larger trailer beats making multiple trips or leaving items behind.
Loading Tips for Maximum Efficiency
Professional movers use specific techniques to maximize trailer space:
- Heavy items first – Load appliances, dressers, and heavy boxes near the front
- Furniture along walls – Stand mattresses, couches, and headboards against the sides
- Stack strategically – Heavy boxes on bottom, lighter boxes on top
- Fill every gap – Stuff soft items (pillows, blankets, bags of clothing) into spaces
- Secure your load – Use ratchet straps every few feet to prevent shifting
Timing Your Move for Savings
When you move affects both availability and potential costs:
- Avoid month-end – Most leases end on the 1st, making end-of-month moves chaotic
- Mid-week moves – Tuesday through Thursday typically have better trailer availability
- Off-season – Winter months (October-March) are generally less busy
- Reserve early – Book your trailer 1-2 weeks ahead to ensure availability
Common DIY Moving Mistakes to Avoid
- Underestimating time – A DIY move takes longer than you think. Start early.
- Skipping labels – Mark every box with contents and destination room
- Overloading boxes – Heavy items go in small boxes; large boxes are for light items
- Forgetting supplies – Have tape, markers, and tools easily accessible
- Not protecting floors – Use furniture pads and drop cloths at both locations
Reserve Your Moving Trailer in Fontana
Ready to save money with a DIY move? Contact JMJ Trailer Rentals at (909) 402-6600 to reserve your trailer. We offer utility and enclosed trailers starting at $70/day with no mileage charges.
We serve DIY movers throughout Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Riverside, San Bernardino, and the entire Inland Empire. Our team can help you select the right trailer size for your specific move.