It is no secret that moving can be an expensive endeavor. When you add up the costs of buying packing supplies, hiring a moving company, renting a moving truck and everything in between, the prospect of paying for it all may seem overwhelming. On the bright side, there are some savvy yet relatively simple ways to cut down on your moving costs. Read on to explore a few of the best ways to make your upcoming move more affordable.
Hold a Garage Sale Prior to the Move
Why pay to move stuff that you no longer use or want? Consider holding a garage sale in the months or weeks prior to your move as a means of removing clutter and earning some extra cash in the process. For the items that do not sell, you can choose to donate them to a local charity or simply throw them away. Upon completing your garage sale, you will have less to move, and you can start off with a “clean slate” in your new place!
Avoid Moving During Peak Season
The busiest and most expensive time to move is during the months of summer between June and September. That is because many families choose to move during the summer so that their children’s school years will not be disrupted. If possible, try scheduling your move during a non-peak time of the year. Consider a move during the months of October through April or May. You may be pleasantly surprised at how much cheaper moving services are during this time.
Request Moving Quotes from Several Companies
Regardless of the time when you are moving, make sure you are receiving the best deal from movers by requesting in-home quotes from at least three different companies. Compare what is included with each quote and check out the reviews of each company before making any decisions. And remember, cheaper is not always better. It may be worth spending a little more money with a company that has an outstanding reputation as opposed to one that is a little cheaper but is not very reputable.
Search for Free Packing Supplies
Rather than spending your hard-earned money on boxes, bubble wrap, and other packing supplies, check with family members and friends who have recently moved to see if they have any leftover boxes or supplies available. You may also want to talk to employees at local businesses to see if they have any extra cardboard boxes to give you for free.
Save Your Receipts for Tax Time
Finally, your moving costs may be tax-deductible, so make sure to keep your receipts such as those from your moving truck and moving company. You may be delighted by the credits or deductions you receive during tax time. By following these simple tips, you may be surprised at how much money you can save for your upcoming move.
