Money Saving Moving Tips

Moving Tips

Weed out accumulated junk
The best way to save money is to avoid moving anything you don’t really need. Keep in mind the “80/20 rule” — 80 percent of the time you use only 20 percent of your things. Have a yard sale, advertise in the newspaper large items you no longer need, throw out or donate to charity items you no longer use.

Pace yourself
Planning ahead is key to reducing the stress and expense of moving. If possible, start sorting through your possessions a month or two in advance of your move. If that’s not possible, pace yourself.

Decluttering experts recommend a 15/10 work schedule. Set a timer for 15 minutes and start sorting through your things. Take a 10 minute break and do something completely unrelated. Then start again with another 15 minutes of organizing. Stop after two hours to keep from getting overwhelmed.

Do the packing yourself
Even if you plan to use a professional moving company, you can save hundreds of dollars by getting packing supplies and packing your things yourself. See Packing Tips.

Save on packing supplies

Pick up boxes for free from a liquor or grocery store. Moving companies will sometimes sell used professional packing supplies at a discount.
Ask a friend or family member who has recently moved to give or sell you their boxes.
Buy archive or “banker’s boxes” from an office supply store like Office Depot or Staples. You assemble these 10” x 12” x 15” boxes and lids yourself. They are inexpensive, very sturdy and have openings on the sides to make lifting easier.
Borrow a tape dispenser.
Save old newspapers and magazines to use as wrapping and to crumple up to fill empty spaces in boxes. Just be aware that ink from newspapers can stain.
Use your own blankets, sheets, towels or rugs to pad furniture. Use older linens or be prepared to wash them after your move.

Get written estimates from three moving companies
Professional movers base their fees on the weight of your possessions, the distance they have to drive and other services provided (like packing for you). Get at least three quotes to be sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Call all rental companies
Rental fees for trucks or vans vary widely. Be sure you’re clear about all the fees involved. There may be gasoline or mileage surcharges, drop-off charges if you aren’t returning the rental to the place you got it, roadside assistance and insurance fees.

Move in the off-season or during slow times
Most people move between May and September. The busiest moving times during a month are the first and last week or on weekends. If you have the option of moving outside these times you could negotiate a reduced rate for a truck rental or professional mover. Movers are often eager for business on week days or any time in January and February.

Move yourself
It may be necessary to hire a moving company to move heavy or difficult-to-lift items like large furniture or appliances. But you can save money moving many items yourself. Rent or borrow a truck. Recruit some friends and family members to help. Be sure to “pay” your volunteers with something like pizza and refreshments.

Ship your possessions
Check on the cost of shipping your goods via Canada Post, Greyhound bus or a courier service. Shipping heavier items like books or shipping ahead your necessities can sometimes be done more economically this way.

Save on trip expenses
If your move involves a drive to another city or across the country, set daily goals. You’ll save money if you have your room reserved ahead of time. Some hotel and motel chains have frequent visitor programs. A BCAA membership or using certain credit cards might entitle you to a discount. Breakfast and lunch meals are typically cheaper than dinner prices at most restaurants. Consider having a picnic in your hotel or motel room on purchases from the deli of a grocery store.

Claim moving expenses
If you’re moving for a job, ask your employer to cover some or all of your expenses. If that’s not possible, you may be able to claim moving expenses on your income tax return if you are moving to start a new job. Keep all your receipts and check with a tax advisor.

Use e-mail for Change of Address notices
Many individuals and most businesses have e-mail addresses. Save on postage by only sending out Change of Address notices to people who don’t have an e-mail address. Many larger businesses will have a method on their website to give notice of a change of address.