5 Ways to Reduce Your Cost of Moving

1. Make some money from your unwanted belongings

After you go through all your belongings and figure out what stuff you want to get rid of, consider donating your unwanted items to a charity. Most organizations will pick up your stuff for free and then you can get a tax deduction if you put it on your income tax return. You could even set up a yard or garage sale.

2. Make a budget beforehand and stick to it

Try to estimate all the costs along the whole moving process. Think of the costs for packing materials, a moving company, insurance, food for the movers, etc. Budget money for each of these things beforehand and try your best to stick to it. There’s often hidden or unexpected costs that you’ll find along the way, but that’s totally normal.

3. Consider using a storage container or other options

Get a storage container that a moving company can drop off at your house and then, you can fill it yourself on your schedule over the course of several days or weeks. Once you’ve got all your belongings moved in, the company will pick up the container and drive it to your destination. You can even rent and drive your own moving truck to move your belongings.

4. Get several estimates

If you decide to go ahead and use a professional moving company, make sure you get several estimates before choosing the right one. If you are moving an entire house full of items, you should get a representative from the moving company to come to your house to survey your belongings so you get an accurate, written estimate rather than one over the phone.

5. Clear the space

Many moving companies will charge by the hour. Plan ahead by making sure that you prep your house and belongings beforehand. If you have large furniture, make sure you can fit them through the doors and hallways in your home. If it’ll be tight, consider removing the doors before movers arrive. By cutting time off your move, you’ll make it easier and faster for the movers and save you money, too.

If you follow these tips and other similar ones, you’ll be on your way to a successful move that’ll also keep you from going over budget.