Moving can be a budget buster, but with these insider tricks, you’ll keep more cash in your pocket. We reveal the top money-saving moving hacks.
Moving is often an expensive endeavor, but it doesn’t have to drain your bank account. As someone who has moved numerous times, both locally in Edmonton and cross-country, I’ve learned some valuable cost-cutting secrets over the years.
Whether you’re relocating across town or internationally, these budget-friendly moving tips will help you save big.
Tap Your Network for Help
One of the most significant expenses when moving is hiring professional movers. While convenient, the costs can skyrocket quickly.
Instead, consider tapping into your network of family and friends for help and offer to return the favor or provide meals and refreshments on moving day.
When I moved last year, my buddies were lifesavers, and a pizza lunch kept them motivated!
If you must hire moving services in Edmonton, compare rates from multiple companies and aim for mid-week or winter moves when prices are typically lower.
Booking well in advance can also score you better deals.
Packing Efficiently is a Game-Changer
Packing efficiently is a game-changer for saving money. Invest in durable plastic bins that you can reuse for future moves instead of purchasing cardboard boxes.
You can often find free boxes from local retailers or online buy-and-sell groups. Get creative with padding by using towels, blankets, and clothing to protect fragile items.
Here’s a cost breakdown of potential packing expenses:
| Item | Cost (New) | Cost (Used/Free) |
| Small Boxes (20) | $60 | $0 (Free from stores) |
| Large Boxes (10) | $50 | $0 (Free from buy/sell groups) |
| Packing Paper (10 rolls) | $30 | $0 (Use towels/blankets) |
| Bubble Wrap (2 rolls) | $20 | $0 (Use clothing/blankets) |
| Total | $160 | $0 |
As you can see, getting resourceful with packing materials can save you a pretty penny!
Renting a Moving Truck on a Budget
“But where will I find an affordable truck for my move?” you might ask. Rental companies often have deals and discounts, so check their websites frequently.
Consider renting from a conventional company one-way and using a moving truck rental service like U-Haul for the return trip to maximize savings.
Plan Your Travel Wisely
Finally, plan your travel wisely by comparing gas costs versus airfare if moving long-distance.
Sometimes it’s cheaper to ship your belongings and fly to your new home. Don’t forget to scour the web for discounted hotel rates along your route if you need to stop overnight.
Don’t Overlook Downsizing and Decluttering
One of the best ways to reduce moving costs is to downsize and declutter before your move.
Go through your belongings and sell, donate, or discard items you no longer need or use.
Not only will this lighten your load (and potentially lower transportation costs), but you can also earn some extra cash from selling unwanted goods.
I vividly remember decluttering before my last move and being amazed at how much stuff I had accumulated over the years.
By purging unnecessary items through garage sales and online marketplaces, I made over $500 and significantly reduced the number of boxes I needed to move.
Moving doesn’t have to leave you broke. With savvy planning, a frugal mindset, and these insider money-saving tips, you can make your big transition a budget-friendly success!
