Moving can be a very costly endeavor, but you don’t have to blow your budget. Follow these easy tips to save money – and hassle – when moving to a new home.
1. Book Your Moving Company In Advance
Start your search for a moving company well in advance of your move. The best moving companies are often booked months in advance, especially for in-demand dates like summer, weekends, and the end of the month. Remember to get multiple estimates for your move. Even if you are thinking of moving yourself, still get some moving estimates from professional movers. Then compare these estimates to the costs of moving yourself.
2. Get Rid of Stuff
The more stuff you have, the more the move is going to cost. Use moving as an excuse to finally get rid of all that junk you’ve accumulated. Start early and purge items, like old clothes, toys, and sporting goods you don’t use anymore. You can even make money on these items by holding a garage sale, listing them on auction sites or classified ads, or by donating them and getting a tax deduction.
3. Claim Your Tax Deduction
If you are moving for a new job, then you are probably eligible to deduct many of the moving expenses on your taxes. These tax-deductible moving expenses include moving company services, boxes, storage units, and accommodation while in transit, as well as some other expenses. Remember to save all receipts!
4. Plan your meals
Because your kitchen will be packed up, a lot of people rely on fast food and takeout for meals for their last few days in the old place and first few days in the new place. This can quickly add up to a large expense. Save yourself money by planning your moving meals in advance. Pack a “survival” box with essential items like an all-purpose pan in which you can cook simple meals like instant soups. If you do plan on eating takeout during the move, then research the best options and look for coupons.
5. Get free boxes
Packing supplies like boxes can add up to be a large expense, especially if you are using specialty boxes like wardrobe boxes or dish packs. It generally isn’t a good idea to use used boxes from the grocery store because they are dirty and weak. You can, however, find free or cheap used boxes on places like Craigslist. Just remember to start looking for free boxes well in advance so you don’t have to scramble during the last few days.
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