Ways to Reduce the Cost of Moving Day

It’s no secret that the process of moving can be expensive. And while there are several parts of a move that cost money, there are also a few ways to cut down on expenses. To help those of you who are about to relocate to a new city or state, this service has some tips on how to reduce the cost of moving.

Compare Rates

When planning your move, make sure that you compare rates between at least two or three different providers. This can help you find the lowest possible price when hiring a moving company or truck. Along with looking at pricing, make sure that you check out other factors about a company as well, including their reputation and customer reviews.

Choose the Right Time to Move

If you do decide to use a moving company or truck service, consider moving in the spring or fall months rather than in the summertime. Many moving companies are incredibly busy during the summer months, as it’s the most popular time of year to move, and it might be harder for you to score a good deal. Choosing to move at a different time can save you a lot of money and provide you with more scheduling flexibility as well. It’s also a good idea to move during the week and before (or after) rush hour, to save both time and money used on fuel.

Find Free Moving Supplies

While it might be easier to go to a store and buy all your moving supplies in one trip, gathering free packing materials over time can save you a lot of money in the long run. There are plenty of ways to get free boxes for a move, including asking for extra boxes at your neighborhood grocery store or liquor store, asking family members or friends to save their unused boxes for you, or by looking for people who are giving boxes away for free online. Additionally, you should also consider using household items such as towels and sheets as packing materials rather than paying extra cash for packing peanuts or bubble wrap.

Sell Unwanted Belongings

Moving is the perfect time to sort through all your belongings and get rid of unwanted items. The less “stuff” that you have, the less you’ll have to pay to move, which can both simplify the process and cut down on costs. To sell furniture, home decor, housewares, and clothing that you no longer use, you can host a yard sale, advertise items online, or take them to a local pawn or resale shop.

File for a Tax Deduction

In some situations, you might be able to take a tax deduction for some or all of your moving expenses. Just make sure that you check the IRS’s guidelines or talk to a tax preparation professional to determine if your expenses qualify.