How to Save Money Moving

Do your plans for the spring include moving? Moving is one of those expenses that can creep up on you – and can be substantial if you don’t plan for them, especially if you are planning on moving yourself.

Here are some tips on how to make your move successful-and frugal.

Purge, Purge, Purge

Paring down belongings and purging yourself from what you no longer need is always a great idea, but it carries more meaning when it comes to moving.

Not only can you get more organized (and maybe uncover a treasure or two that you forgot that you had), but you help reduce the amount of stuff which you will actually move. This will save time, money and aggravation.

A good rule? If you haven’t used it in a year, you won’t. Let it be someone else’s treasure. You can even hit the consignment stores to see if you can raise some extra last-minute cash to help defray moving costs.

Pay it Forward to Save Money (and keep Good Friendships)

One of the biggest expenses when it comes to moving is labour and vehicle rental. If you have friends or family that are willing to help or lend trucks, vans or whatever you need to get your stuff from point A to point B, then take advantage.

However, be proactive- by offering to help others in the same situation (this may even be a good idea if you are not planning on moving right away). Moving is one of those dreaded jobs- but very much relies on the quid-pro-quo system.

That said, if you are lucky enough to get help, verbalize your thanks and be sure to include in your budget some room for snacks, pizza, water (and probably cold beer)! Movers need sustenance.

Box it, Baby

Another big moving expense? Boxes and packing material.

You can often get boxes from stores (just ask). Some stores are happy to part with boxes as it cuts down on their own trash, but some may charge you for them (or ask that you make a small charitable donation).  Often these costs are less than those associated with buying actual moving boxes.

If you do purchase moving boxes from a moving  company, or score some heavy-duty ones, disassemble and store somewhere safe when you are done. You can re-use these ones several times if you are mindful.

Burst your Bubble

As far as packing materials go, skip the bubble wrap and save the newspaper over the few weeks leading up to the move.

Bubble wrap is expensive, and not always foolproof. If you are terrified of your Grandmother’s crystal that she gave you getting broken in the move, move it yourself- by hand from point A to point B. That way you know it is in good, careful hands!

Don’t over pack boxes, and your good should be well-protected with newspaper. Reduce, re-used, re-cycle!

Pack a Carry-On

Use the same principle as you would packing carry-on luggage. Pack necessary toiletries, medication and change of clothes- as well as a couple of settings of cups and plates in a box together, so that you have access to these necessities immediately.

Despite your best intentions, unpacking may take a bit. Instead of running out to the store to buy a toothbrush and a razor (and unnecessary spending), be proactive and make sure that these items are accessible.