How to Stay on Budget During a Move

Moving into a new home can easily be a stressful process that requires patience, time, and money.

Even if some of the expenses are unavoidable, there are plenty of ways to keep them down by planning ahead, comparing prices, and rethinking your assumptions about the moving options and costs.

Here are 5 valuable tips about how to stay on a budget during a move, and how to keep money in your bank account before you reach your new doorstep.

Declutter and donate

When you consider how to save money on your move, start by asking yourself what you can get rid of.

Take the time to go room by room and evaluate the items you want and need; versus those you can live without.

Selling or donating some of your belongings can eliminate extra weight, which is a metric used by some of the movers to calculate your estimated moving costs. By selling or donating, you can earn some extra cash or tax deductions which will help you to stay on budget during the move.

Moreover, if you’re bringing bulky furniture to your new home, check the exact measurements. Don’t go to the trouble and additional costs of moving that massive bookcase if it’s not going to fit in your new place.

Use Cheap Packing Materials

Instead of buying brand-new boxes, you can ask for old ones at your work. Some companies have special policies about used packing materials or boxes, so be sure to ask your manager or supervisor before start grabbing materials.

You can also ask friends and neighbors if they have any unused boxes that you can have while moving.

Another great idea is to visit the closest recycling center to see what boxes can be salvaged. Don’t forget grocery stores, liquor stores and other retailers where you may find extra boxes that are free, after restocking.

Similarly, rather than shelling out more money on packing materials like bubble wrap, use blankets, and sheets to wrap your belongings to protect them from damage.

Newspapers are always a great packing material, just be careful of the ink which can transfer to certain items and damage them.

Consider a DIY Move

While you will need help, a DIY approach is a great way to cut down some of your expenses. However, it isn’t exactly free. You’ll still need to pay for a rental truck or van and gas.

You should also consider whether you’ll need any labor help for the loading and unloading of all of your belongings. If possible you may want to gather your friends or family members to help you with the loading and unloading the truck.

Since your close friends won’t be expecting money, consider offering them something like beer and pizza after a move as an appreciation for their hard work.

If you have any medical restrictions or health problems that can be exacerbated during the move, seriously consider hiring professionals. In the end, health is more important than money, and you should take care of yourself.

Don’t Move During Peak Season

While this may not be under your control, try to avoid moving during the peak season. Most Americans plan their moves between May and September, so do your best to avoid these months. This is also the most expensive time of year to move because of moving and packing services which are in higher demand.

Instead, try to move during October through March. Autumn, winter, or early spring months which would be best.

For exact time, we recommend you to choose evening moves which are cost effective when moving on a tight budget.

This extra effort put into the minor details of determining the date and time of your move can make a huge difference once the big day comes. Choose your move date wisely, and you’ll save time, stress and of course, money!

Track your expenses

The best way to stay on budget during a move is to keep track of all of your expenses during the process.

Moving can add up quickly and to avoid dipping into your savings, it’s best to save every receipt and closely record your expenses. Depending on your job, you may also be in a situation where you can write off your move or your future employer might be able to pay for some of it.

Keeping careful records will ensure that you have everything you need to be reimbursed.