Moving is an intimidating – and costly – endeavor, but there are ways to save money on your move without sacrificing quality.
A professional move costs from under $1,000 to $15,000 or more. The total price tag depends on how much stuff you have and how far you are going.
If you are on a budget you will want to reduce moving costs as much as possible. Below are 10 ways to help you do just that:
10. Plan Your Move 6-8 Weeks Ahead
One of the most effective ways to save money on your move is to plan ahead. This includes researching moving companies, truck rental companies, and packing supplies about six to eight weeks before your expected moving date. By planning ahead, you can take advantage of deals and discounts and avoid last-minute expenses.
9. Declutter Items
Moving is the perfect time to declutter and get rid of items you no longer need. By selling or donating items you don’t use, you can help reduce the weight and volume of your move (since most moving companies charge based on these factors), saving you money on moving expenses. Not to mention, any money you pocketed from selling your items can also be put toward your move.
Bonus tip: Appliances are big, heavy and cost a lot to move, so it doesn’t make sense to take one that’s near the end of its expected lifespan.
8. Get Organized Before Moving Day
When it comes to packing for your move, it’s important to organize your items efficiently to minimize weight and volume. Consider donating bulky items, such as furniture, or transferring them to your car to keep the weight of your moving truck down.
When it comes to hourly rate movers, being organized will also make sure everything goes smoothly and the crew can work as quickly as possible. Make sure to reserve elevator access if you live in an apartment building, and reserve street parking ahead of time for the moving truck to park.
7. Shop Around For The Best Deals
Take the time to shop around and compare prices for self-storage units, moving companies, truck rentals, and packing supplies. Don’t just go with the first option you find, as there may be better deals available if you take the time to compare prices.
6. Reuse Moving Supplies
Instead of buying new packing supplies, consider reusing boxes, packing materials, and moving blankets. You can often find free boxes and packing materials on sites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
5. Avoid the Busy Season
If possible, avoid moving during the busy season when prices for moving companies and truck rentals are higher. Consider moving during the off-season to save money on your move.
Bonus tip: If you must move during the busy season, shoot for a date in the middle of the week and middle of the month. Avoid the weekends if you can.
4. Utilize Moving Cost Calculators
Use online moving cost calculators to estimate your moving expenses and budget accordingly. This can help you avoid unexpected expenses and keep your move on budget.
3. Negotiate with Moving Companies
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with moving companies or truck rental companies to get a better deal. Ask for discounts or promotions, and see if they are willing to match prices with their competitors. Many companies offer discounts for students, seniors, veterans, AAA members and other groups.
2. Do It Yourself
If you have a small move or are moving locally, consider doing it yourself with the help of friends or family. Rent a truck and handle the move yourself to save money, but be prepared to exert yourself. Buying your pals a few pizzas to thank them for pitching in is surely a lot cheaper than hiring a full-fledged moving company! Plus, you’ll have more fun doing it with the help of your friends.
1. Downsize Your Space
Downsizing to a smaller home or apartment can help you save money on rent and utilities. If possible, consider moving into a smaller space to save money on monthly expenses. A few hundred dollars saved on rent or mortgage each month can make a huge difference. Plus when you move into a smaller space, you won’t be compelled to spend money to move all of the extraneous items from your previous home.
Get Ready to Move
Moving on a budget is more than possible with careful planning and organization. By following these tips, you can save money on your move and still ensure a smooth and successful relocation. And remember, even if your upcoming move doesn’t quite work out to be as affordable as you had hoped, there’s likely a very good reason you’re moving, and it will only be a matter of time before your expenses – and life – feel back to normal.
