It doesn’t matter if you are just moving down the block or if you are making a massive cross-country move, it doesn’t have to cost as much as you might think.
The main thing you can do to make sure that your move is less hectic, less stressful, and more cost efficient is to be as organized as possible when the time comes. This will help you to remain organized throughout the move and allow for your attitude to be more positive.
There are quite a few ways to trim the costs of a move. Some of them are staring you in the face, while others might not be so blatant. Here is a quick look at some of the ways you can save on your move.
Pro or DIY?
Sometimes the choice here can be easy, like if you are muscle bound and have a large truck and friends to help you. Other times, it just makes better sense to hire a moving company. Either way, run the numbers to see which option will be more cost-effective. The result might be surprising. Before you hire a professional moving company like Allied Van Lines to help you move, find out the exact fees that you will be charged. These can include things like extra carrying fees and linehaul charges.
Also, if you are pricing a DIY move, remember to include those hidden fees, like gas charges and miles put on a rental truck. Either way you go, moving in the off-season can save you some cash, too.
Cut Down
This is a great tip that many frequent movers will already have in their arsenal. Get rid of the stuff you no longer need. Aside from having less to pack, this can also save you money on the move and actually make you a bit of money if you sell it in a yard sale or on Craigslist. As far as the move itself goes, professional movers tend to charge by the number of vehicles they provide and by weight. If you lighten that load, it can save you money. If you decide not to sell what you no longer want, you can still donate it to charity and get a tax deduction out of it.
Get Free Supplies
Another great way to save on moving expenses has to do with your packing supplies. There are plenty of places that will give you free boxes, so you should never shell out money for them. Try places like your local grocery stores, liquor stores, and offices. Those copy paper boxes are just the right size and quite strong.
You can also use things you already have in your home. You probably already have tape and markers or Sharpies. You more than likely also have things you can use to protect your belongings, like sheets and blankets to protect the furniture. You can pack your plates by alternating each plate with a Styrofoam plate. You can slide each of your glasses into a clean sock. You can use newspapers for packing materials too.
Deductions?
If you happen to be moving quite a distance and the whole reason for the move is work-related, you might just be eligible for a tax deduction or two that will be related to the expenses you will incur for things like storage, transportation, and packing. If you want to take advantage of these deductions, make sure that you save each and every receipt and any other relevant documentation. When you get to the new place, you can get in touch with a tax professional who can help you with confirming your eligibility for these deductions.
Total Cost
One of the most important things you can do before your move is to sit down and figure out how much it will cost. You need to know where your money will go before you even begin to pack. This includes knowing when you will be moving and what expenses you will have. Doing this can reassure you that you have enough to take care of the move without being stressed about it too much when the time comes.
Leave a Reply