Ways To Reduce Your Moving Expenses

When it’s time to move to another house or even another area of the country, although the transition of entering into a new season of life can definitely be exciting, if there’s one thing that no one really looks forward to (and may not have created a budget for either), it would have to be incurring additional moving expenses.  Although it is one more expenses that can be quite a bit of a pain, you can save a substantial amount of money by simply being prepared.

Below are some tips on how you can make moving much less stressful by making it as inexpensive and as smooth a process as possible:

Learn about your local moving companies. Whether you’re moving to Spain and need to research removals to Spain, or even if you’re moving a short distance, you may end up paying more than you had to if you would have simply done a Google search and looked up the moving companies in your area. So, spend some time looking at their hourly rates and mileage rates and comparing them with other companies. That’s a better way to get a good price. Also, it’s good to know ahead of time that movers tend to charge more money during the summer, on the weekends and during the holiday season. So, if there’s any way that you can move around those dates, you’ll be glad that you did. If you’re not moving far, don’t be afraid to simply ask friends and family members to help you move. They will likely be glad to help you out and this route will save you a lot of money.

Pack smart and leave behind what you don’t want. The more stuff that you have, the more boxes you will need and ultimately, a larger-sized truck that you will have to get as well. One way to reduce your moving expenses is to get rid of what you don’t need.  As well, take note of what you haven’t used for a long time.  Chances are, you won’t ever use it again, so get rid of anything bulky or heavy that fits into that category as well. So, go through all of your clothes, books, electronics and all of that stuff that’s been collecting dust in your attic and garage. What you really don’t use much, donate it to your local thrift store or hold a yard sale to make a few extra dollars. Oh, and if you realize that some of your furniture is either too large or too dated, get rid of that as well.  Keep in mind that if it isn’t worth the cost of moving it, it makes more financial sense to get rid of it prior to moving.

Don’t pay for moving supplies. Some people buy boxes, but I recommend that you just go to local grocery stores and department stores and ask for theirs.  They are going to be more than willing to have you take them off their hands.  Another great place to ask for boxes is at McDonald’s.  Their potato fry boxes are very sturdy and a perfect size for packing your household items.  There is absolutely no reason for you to have to buy boxes or containers for your move.

Keep a record of all your moving expenses.  If you live in a country that allows you to claim some or all of your moving expenses when you do your income tax, then make sure to keep all your receipts for all of your moving expenses including the amount you pay to a moving company, a UHaul rental fee, your accommodations en route, etc.  Claiming your moving expenses can help to reduce your taxes significantly.