Moving on a Budget? Top 10 Money-Saving Tips for Your Next Move

On average, people move 11.7 times in their lifetime, enough to become experts. However, whether it's your first or seventh move, the mere thought of packing and moving your entire house or apartment to a new place can be exhausting and expensive. If you can relate, use these tips to save time, money, and hopefully maintain your sanity.

1.  Consider Moving in the Off-Season

The period between April and September is peak moving season, making it harder to secure a moving company without scheduling far in advance. Even if you can find one, rates can be expensive. If you have flexibility, consider moving during the fall or winter, as demand is lower. Also, aim for mid-week and mid-month moves, as end-of-month deadlines can lead to increased demand.

2.  Be flexible

One way to secure a good rate is to let the moving company choose the date, whether it's peak or off-season. Being flexible and accommodating their schedule can increase your chances of getting a deal and receiving more personalized attention.

3.  Find Free Moving Boxes

Cardboard boxes may seem cheap, but the cost can add up quickly, especially if you need a lot. For example, buying 100 boxes from U-Haul would cost almost $200. Instead, look for free boxes at grocery stores, liquor stores, bookstores, and furniture stores. You can also find them on local Facebook groups from people who recently moved.

4. Get Creative with Packing Materials

To protect your belongings, you'll need packing materials like bubble wrap and packing paper. But before you buy these supplies, look around your house for items that can serve the same purpose, such as towels, sheets, and even clothing. This will save you money and reduce waste.

5.  Simplify your belongings

Now, is the perfect opportunity to adopt the Marie Kondo method and downsize your possessions. The less you own, the less you need to pack! If you're moving to a smaller place, this step is especially important. Use plastic tubs labeled "Keep," "Donate," and "Throw Away" to organize your belongings. Envision your new space and decide which items you want to bring. Consider selling furniture you don't plan to take with you, and schedule a pickup date for essential items such as a bed or lamp.

6. Start packing early

Underestimating the time needed to pack is common. Avoid last-minute stress by starting weeks in advance. Pack items you can live without for a short period, such as seasonal clothes, extra dinnerware, books, craft supplies, and specialty appliances.

7.  Label everything

Labeling boxes clearly is crucial. Don't risk arriving at your new place and not finding what you need. If you're not comfortable labeling boxes, use a numbering system and record the contents of each numbered box in a separate notebook or spreadsheet.

8.  Save on shipping costs

If you need to ship belongings to your new location, Pirate Ship is a great option. By partnering with shipping companies, they offer significant discounts to individual customers. You can calculate rates and print labels from home, and arrange a pickup or drop-off at your convenience.

9. Rent a portable moving container

Renting a portable moving container provides more flexibility than a moving company. You can choose when it will be delivered and picked up, and rates are often much lower. The container can also be used as temporary storage if your move timeline changes unexpectedly.

10.  Consider renting a moving truck

If you prefer to handle your own belongings during the move. This do-it-yourself approach not only saves you money, but also allows you to pack the truck according to your own standards and avoid relying on anyone else's schedule. However, it's important to ensure you feel comfortable driving a large vehicle before choosing this option. If your move requires multiple days, consider parking the truck in well-lit areas overnight, and back it up against a bush to prevent unauthorized access.

Regardless of your chosen approach, it's crucial to have support when it comes to packing, moving furniture, and organizing logistics. Your local real estate agent can provide valuable referrals to moving companies, junk haulers, shipping companies, move-out cleaners, and other service providers.