6 Budget-Friendly Moving Tips

Published: October 01, 2024

Moving can be an expensive endeavor, but with some careful planning and smart choices, you can significantly reduce your moving expenses without sacrificing the quality of your move. Here are six practical tips that will help you save money on your next move, all while ensuring a smooth transition to your new home from start to finish.

1. Declutter Before You Pack

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to save money during a move is to reduce the amount of stuff you need to move. The fewer items you have, the less you’ll spend on packing materials and moving services. Start by going through each room and sorting your belongings into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. Be ruthless in your decision-making. If you haven’t used something in the past year, it’s probably safe to let it go. Donating items helps others and can provide you with a tax deduction. Selling valuable but unused items through online marketplaces or a garage sale can also give you extra cash to offset moving expenses.

2. Choose the Right Time to Move

Timing can have a big impact on your moving costs. If possible, avoid moving during peak seasons, typically summer months and weekends, when demand for moving services is highest. Instead, consider the off-season, such as fall or winter, when companies are less busy and more likely to offer discounts. By being strategic about when you move, you can save on your expenses.

3. Use Portable Storage Containers for Moving

Consider renting portable storage containers from UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Seattle. Portable storage containers provide a flexible and cost-effective way to move, allowing you to pack and load at your own pace without pressure. A weather-resistant and secure portable storage container will delivered directly to your doorstep. Once your container is packed, the container will be transported to your new location or stored in their climate-controlled storage facility until you’re ready to move into your new home. This service eliminates the need for multiple trips, reduces the risk of damage to your belongings, and can save you both time and money.

4. Use Free or Recycled Packing Materials

Packing supplies can add up quickly, especially if you purchase new boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper. However, you can save a lot of money by sourcing free or recycled packing materials. Start by asking friends, family, or local businesses if they have any spare boxes they no longer need. Many retailers and grocery stores have an excess of sturdy boxes that they would be happy to give away. For padding and wrapping, consider using items you already have at home, such as towels, blankets, and clothing, to protect fragile items. 

5. Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time

In the chaos of moving, it’s easy to fall into the trap of ordering takeout or eating out frequently, which can quickly add up. To avoid this, plan your meals ahead of time and try to use up the food you already have in your pantry and freezer. In the weeks leading up to your move, make a meal plan that incorporates the ingredients you have on hand and aims to minimize waste. Preparing simple, freezer-friendly meals that can be reheated during the busy days of moving can save you both time and money.

6. Take Advantage of Tax Deductions and Employer Reimbursements

If your move is work-related, you may be eligible for tax deductions or reimbursements that can help offset your moving costs. The IRS allows certain expenses to be deducted if you meet specific criteria, such as moving a certain distance for a new job. Keep detailed records of your moving expenses, including receipts and mileage, to ensure you can claim these deductions when you file your taxes. Additionally, some employers offer relocation packages that cover a portion of your moving expenses. 

By following these six tips, you can keep your moving expenses under control while still ensuring a successful and stress-free move. Remember, the key to saving money is to plan ahead, stay organized, and make informed decisions every step of the way.

For the most budget-friendly way to move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Seattle or call (206) 347-8201 for a free quote.