Moving on a Budget

If you've got a move in the future and are worried about how much it'll cost, you're not alone: household moving costs can add up.

Fortunately, moving doesn't have to break the bank. Read on to learn how to save a few bucks on your next move.

Cut Back on Stuff (and Make a Few Bucks)

Moving is the perfect opportunity to curate your belongings, so add that to your moving checklist. Getting rid of things you don't want means less stuff to move, freeing up more space in the moving truck and costing less overall.

Plus, you can sell items you no longer want to earn extra money for the move. For example, you could hold a yard sale or list items online to raise funds.

Start the culling process a few months before moving day. Go through each item in your home and designate it into one of four categories:

• I still want to use this: Keep it!

• I don't want this, but it's still worth something: Sell it!

• I don't need this anymore, but someone else can use it: Donate it!

• This is too worn out to sell or donate: Recycle (or trash) it!

Remember that certain items, like electronics and batteries, must be disposed of properly. Check the EPA website to find certified recyclers near you.

Relocate During the Off Season

Did you know that, just like tourism and real estate, moving has high and low seasons? Most people tend to move during late spring, summer, and early fall when the weather is nice and kids are on a break from school.

But not only is it more expensive to hire a mover during the "peak season," people tend to book moving companies far in advance. So if you don't plan (way) ahead, you may have to settle for sub-par movers. Not a great option!

Save money and stress by scheduling your move during the "off" season. Moving in late fall, winter, or early spring might mean lower rates and more options.

Find Free Packing Supplies

When moving, you want to pack your belongings properly to keep them safe and minimize damage. That means using quality packing supplies.

But the cost of buying new packing materials adds up quickly. Fortunately, you can source packing materials for free if you're willing to invest a bit of time and energy.

As soon as you know you're moving, keep all the boxes and packing supplies that arrive at your home through delivery services. Packing peanuts, foam, newspapers, cardboard boxes, and more can all be reused at no cost.

Ask around at local retailers to see if you can take used cardboard off their hands. Finally, keep a lookout for sales at office supply stores; you may be able to score discounts on packing tape and other supplies.

Social media is another place to look for free or discounted moving boxes. Check out apps like NextDoor and Marketplace to see if any neighbors are listing their gently-used boxes. These sites are also for unloading your own used boxes when you complete your move.

Moving Made Simple

Moving doesn't have to empty your wallet. Instead, these simple tips will help you save, making your move cost-effective.

Contact us for a free price quote. We'll work with you to determine which moving services meet your needs—and your budget.