Tips On How To Save Money During Your Move

Are you interested in learning about ways that you can cut back on move-related costs? Check out ten tips that will surely help you to save money during your move!

1.      Travel smart: Make your travel plans as far in advance as possible, and try to use travel discounts (like AAA) to save money on hotels.

2.      Eat what you have: Avoid eating out and going to the grocery store as your move approaches. Instead, try to be creative and eat what you have in your pantry and freezer before moving. Frozen foods and other perishable items cannot be moved, and will just go to waste if you don’t eat them. Also, try to eat up the canned goods in your pantry. They can be moved, but are heavy, and will only add to the cost of your shipment.

3.      Collect what is yours: When it comes to an apartment or utility deposit, it is always easier to get your money back prior to your move. Also, remember to pick up any items that are being cleaned, stored, or repaired. If you are a member of a gym or other workout facility, don’t forget to gather any belongings that might be in your locker.

4.      Check on your memberships: Check with any clubs or organizations to which you belong and see if you can sell your membership, get a partial refund, or transfer your membership to your new location.

5.      Contact the IRS: Remember to inform the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about your change in residence. Annually, one of the main reasons that individuals do not receive their tax refund is because they don’t inform the IRS of their change in address. As a result, the post office is unable to deliver thousands of refund checks. Make sure to fill out a change of address form (Form No. 8822) on www.irs.gov prior to your move.

6.      Report your move: If your move is the result of a change in job locations or starting a new job, some moving expenses may be tax deductible. Consult the IRS or your personal tax adviser for more information.

7.      Pack yourself: You can save money on your move by packing and unpacking yourself. Make sure to give yourself at least six weeks to pack and prepare for your move. Contact us and we would be happy to provide you with information on how to pack yourself. However, we do recommend that you invest in the proper packing materials and boxes. Although the use of old boxes and masking tape may save you some money initially, they are not strong enough to protect your belongings during transit. Replacing damaged items can cost more money in the long run than investing in proper boxes.

8.      Timing: Peak moving season is during the summer, as many families like to work around school schedules. If you are at all flexible, you can save money on your move by avoiding a summer move.

9.      Cash in: As the weight of your shipment increases, so does the cost. You may want to think about getting rid of items that you don’t use anymore, and making some quick money in the process. Garage sales, flea markets, online auctions, and taking your items to a consignment store are all great options for cashing in on the items that you don’t need anymore. Giving your things to charity is also a great way to do something nice for your community and lighten your load.

10.  Coupons and deals: Look for coupons, discounts, and free offers from businesses in your new area, who often reach out to new residents. Don’t automatically throw out what looks like junk mail during this time because you could be throwing away money without knowing it!