6 Cost-Saving Tips for Your Next Move

Moving is an expensive endeavor that involves arranging packing supplies, purchasing moving boxes, renting a moving truck, hiring movers, and setting up everything at your new place.

All it takes is strategic planning, downsizing, and a bit of frugality to save money on your move. 

Whether you’re planning a local move or a long-distance relocation, there are many ways to save money without sacrificing quality. 

This guide provides practical tips and money-saving ideas to help you stay within your moving budget and minimize unnecessary expenses.

1. Set Aside a Budget 

One of the best ways to save money on your move is by setting a clear moving budget. 

Begin by creating a comprehensive list of everything you plan to move. 

This step is crucial for determining the number of boxes you’ll need and obtaining accurate quotes from moving companies. 

Be sure to note any heavy or fragile items that might require special handling.

Next, decide whether you will do it yourself or hire professional movers. 

Get quotes from at least three different moving companies to compare costs and services. 

Your budget should include essential moving expenses like:

• Transportation: The cost of a moving truck, gas, or the fees charged by a moving company.
• Labor costs: If you hire movers, remember to account for their fees and a budget for tipping. The average cost of hiring movers typically ranges between $140 and $259 per hour. But the price varies depending on various factors, including the number of hours, additional services, or specialty items.
• Insurance: Coverage for your belongings during the move.
• Packing supplies: Boxes, tape, packing paper, and bubble wrap.

Before finding places to buy moving boxes, plan and determine the type of box you’ll need in abundance. 

It’s also a good practice to set aside a buffer of 10-15% of your total budget for any unexpected costs. 

These could include extra charges for heavy items, storage fees, or unforeseen expenses like pet care or accommodations if the move takes longer than expected. 

By anticipating these potential fees, you can stay on track financially and make your move as stress-free as possible.

2. Pick the Best Time of Year to Move

Timing plays a crucial role in determining how much money you’ll spend on your move. 

For that, you should know the best and the worst times to move. 

Scheduling your move date during off-peak times is a great way to secure lower rates and better deals from moving services. 

The peak moving season, typically during the summer months (May to September), tends to be more expensive due to higher demand. 

Plan your move during off-peak times (Oct to March) or the end of the month to take advantage of cost-saving opportunities.

Whether you’re planning a local move or a long-distance move, avoiding peak times can make a significant difference in your moving expenses. 

For example, moving during the middle of the week or in the early months of the year is often less expensive. 

Flexibility with your moving date can help you find the best prices and enjoy a more budget-friendly moving experience.

3. Declutter and Downsize 

One of the most cost-effective ways to move is to declutter by getting rid of items you no longer need. 

You can either donate items that are in good condition, sell them online, or downsize your home. 

Organize and Sell Unwanted Items

Before you start packing, take some time to declutter your home and eliminate items you no longer need. 

A smaller truck or fewer boxes can significantly reduce your moving costs. 

Organizing a garage sale or yard sale is a great way to earn extra cash while downsizing your belongings. 

Another option is to sell unwanted items on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or other online marketplaces to reach a wider audience and maximize your profits.

Fewer items mean less packing and lower transportation costs, which is especially important for long-distance moves. 

Additionally, selling items in good condition can provide you with some extra money to offset your moving expenses or invest in your new place.

Clean Your Place Before You Move

After decluttering, focus on preparing your new home, cleaning it, and creating a move-out cleaning checklist. 

Some homeowners require you to return your apartment or home in the same condition as when you received it to receive your security deposit back. 

This helps you regain the deposit and save money when moving. 

Ensuring your new place is in good condition can save you from unexpected costs later. 

Clean thoroughly, check for any necessary repairs, and make sure utilities are set up in advance. 

Taking care of these tasks ahead of time can help you avoid additional costs and make your transition smoother.

If you come across household items in good condition that you no longer need but don’t want to sell, consider donating them to local charities. 

This is not only a budget-friendly moving tip but also a meaningful way to give back to your community. 

By preparing your new home properly and donating unwanted items, you can enjoy a fresh start in your new space without incurring excessive expenses.

4. DIY Moving and Packing

Save money on your move by doing the packing and moving yourself. With some planning and effort, you can significantly cut the costs of your relocation.

Rent a Moving Truck or Portable Container

If you’re planning a DIY move, renting a moving truck or portable moving container can be a budget-friendly option. 

Compare moving truck rental companies to find the best deal that suits your moving needs. 

Look for lower rates and ensure that the truck is appropriately sized for your belongings. 

Choosing a smaller truck can save you money if you have fewer items to transport. 

For example, a 10-12 ft. truck costs about $150-$200 for a local move. 

A portable moving container is another great option, especially for long-distance moves. 

These containers allow you to pack at your own pace and are often more affordable than hiring movers. 

They’re also versatile, as they can be stored temporarily if needed. 

Whether you’re moving locally or cross-country, renting a moving truck or container is a practical way to save money on transportation costs while maintaining control over your move. 

Pack Yourself 

One of the most effective ways to reduce moving costs is to pack and unpack yourself.  

Use household items, such as towels or blankets, as substitutes for bubble wrap when packing fragile items. 

This is not only a cost-saving measure but also an eco-friendly way to pack.

Clearly label all boxes and fragile items to prevent damage during transit. 

Organized labeling makes it easier for movers to handle your belongings with care, minimizing the risk of breakage. 

Use garbage bags or vacuum space bags for packing pillows, blankets, and winter jackets. 

Another packing hack is to use zip-top bags for holding batteries, remote controls, and furniture screws. 

If you’re managing a big move or cross-country relocation, take extra care to ensure everything is packed securely. 

Proper packing is the best way to protect your belongings and avoid additional costs from damaged items.

Get Help from Family or Friends

Don’t hesitate to ask family members for help with heavy lifting and packing tasks. 

This is a great way to save on labor costs while involving your loved ones in the moving process. 

Whether it’s carrying boxes or organizing a moving checklist, having extra help can make the move more efficient and enjoyable. 

Make sure to show appreciation to your family or friends after the move. 

Balancing DIY efforts with professional help is often the best way to manage a big move without overspending. 

5. Hire Professional Help Wisely

While hiring professionals might seem expensive, it isn’t a costly choice if you book them in advance and select them carefully. 

Research and Compare Professional Movers

Hiring professional movers can save you time and effort, but it’s essential to conduct thorough research to secure the best deal. 

Start by requesting a free quote from multiple local movers or professional moving services. 

Comparing prices and services can help you identify the best movers that fit your budget and meet your specific moving needs.

Ensure that the movers you choose offer moving insurance coverage for fragile items and are transparent about all additional costs involved in the moving process.

When evaluating your options, check customer reviews and recommendations to verify the reliability of the movers. 

This step is significant for long-distance moves, as choosing dependable movers can help you avoid potential problems. 

Whether you’re moving locally or across the country, taking the time to compare movers is a smart move to ensure a hassle-free and budget-friendly relocation.

Beware of Moving Scams and Hidden Costs

Unfortunately, moving scams and hidden fees are common in the moving industry. 

You must verify the movers to avoid the risk of hiring unqualified or inexperienced movers. 

To protect yourself, verify the movers’ phone number, email address, and licensing information before signing any contracts. 

Always read the fine print in your agreement to ensure there are no hidden fees or extra costs that could disrupt your moving budget.

If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

Be wary of movers offering suspiciously low rates, as they might not deliver the quality or security your belongings require. 

Opt for reputable moving experts with transparent pricing and a proven track record to minimize unnecessary headaches during your move. 

A little caution can save you a lot of money and stress in the long run.

6. Host a Garage Sale

By reducing the total volume and weight of your belongings, a garage sale can significantly lower the cost of your move. 

Here’s how you can arrange a garage sale successfully: 

Timing and Preparation

Schedule your garage sale for the first weekend of the month, allowing yourself six weeks to sort and clean items.

What to Sell

Price items at 10-20% of their original cost, with a focus on high-demand goods such as books, furniture, expensive porcelain bowls, or accessories. 

Advertising and Setup

Check for required permits, then organize and advertise your sale with clear signs and social media posts.

On the Day of the Sale

Have cash for change and consider digital payments. Consider donating or hiring a junk removal service for any unsold items afterward.

Conclusion

By following these practical moving tips, you can save a lot of money and enjoy a budget-friendly moving experience. 

From setting a realistic moving budget to packing efficiently, these strategies can help you minimize expenses and stay organized during your upcoming move. 

Whether it’s a local move or a long-distance relocation, careful planning makes all the difference.

Take control of your moving process and settle into your new home with ease. 

With the proper preparation and cost-saving measures, your next move can be both stress-free and affordable. Enjoy the excitement of starting fresh in your new place without breaking the bank. 

FAQs

1. What’s the cheapest day to move? 

The cheapest days to move are typically weekdays, specifically Monday through Thursday. 

Demand for moving services is lower these days compared to weekends and the beginning or end of the month, allowing companies to offer more competitive rates. 

This can also lead to more availability for movers and elevators in apartment buildings.

2. How much do movers cost in Toronto? 

In Toronto, the cost of hiring movers ranges from $120 to $200 for a crew of two or more movers. 

This hourly cost can fluctuate based on the season, with higher rates during peak moving periods, such as moving during the summer. 

Total costs vary widely depending on the size of your home and the complexity of the move.

3. What is the most expensive month to move? 

The most expensive months to move are June, July, and August. 

This is the peak season for the moving industry, driven by high demand from families with children on school break and favorable weather conditions. 

As a result, moving companies can charge a premium for their services, and availability is often limited. 

4. How much do movers charge for moving a one-bedroom apartment? 

The cost of hiring movers for a one-bedroom apartment varies significantly depending on the distance. For local moves (under 50 miles), costs typically range from $399 to $1,600. 

For long-distance moves (over 50 miles), the price can be anywhere from $550 to $14,000. Be aware that some movers charge a flat, upfront rate, while others bill by the hour. 

Your final moving bill will also be influenced by factors such as accessibility, including narrow stairways or long walks from the truck to the door.