Whatever your sentiments about moving, this is the time of year when most people are preparing to pull up stakes, and that includes people who would rather stay where they are. With everything else to pay for, like utilities, movers, and downpayments, it can be an extremely expensive endeavor. Here are five ways to save.
Research
Of course it feels like you don’t have time, but there are a lot of websites out there that can help you compare the costs between different movers, find service providers, and review insurers (both auto and home as the prices vary based on where you move).
Create a Budget
It is really impossible to over emphasize the importance of creating a budget. Once you know how the moving costs, you have to make sure you can manage it financially and that you don’t spend more than you have. Sticking to the budget is one of the best ways to save money on moving.
Sell What You Don’t Need
Most of us have far more stuff than we actually need, and when it comes time to move that will really cost you. If you have been thinking about getting new furniture now is the perfect opportunity to get rid of your old stuff. Once you are settled into the new place you can use the money you received from selling your old stuff and put it toward new furniture. Whether you use Craig’s list or an alternative, make sure you track what you make and plan how to spend. If you make a donation to Goodwill or another organization, make sure to record it for you 2015 taxes.
Getting Free Boxes
Start looking for boxes as early as possible. People tend to feel pressured to buy boxes when they wait until the last minute, and with so many people moving at this time of year, it will take longer to scrounge up enough free boxes. Grocery stores and liquor stores give them away. You can also find them pretty cheap on places like Craig’s List. Instead of buying boxes from movers, consider buying containers from places like target instead of buying three or four boxes that you will only use once. Storage bins can be used for other things after the move (avoid turning them into a means of storing more junk though).
Shutting Off Services
A lot of companies require you to pay for a full month of service. If you can live without something, then shut it down early to avoid having to pay for several weeks’ worth of services you don’t need.
Moving can be tough and expensive, but there are ways to reduce the cost by being smart about how you do it.
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