How to save on moving expenses

Preparing to move to your new home? Are you searching for a way to save on moving expenses as you approach closing day? After a long and pricey journey, you may be looking for ways to cut back on spending. There are certainly options here, but it’s important to know when and how to save! Here are some tips to help you along the way.

First, know when to save and when to spend

The home buying process is expensive, and many people look for ways to save along the way. As much as you may be tempted to save in any way you can during the moving period, proceed with caution! While there are definitely methods to help combat the costs associated with moving, there are also risks when not done properly. It’s important to understand when you can save, and when you should accept a higher price.

This is most often true when it comes to making booking arrangements with a moving company. There are lots of options, and some of them will be much cheaper than others. While there are many reputable budget moving companies, you need to be on the lookout for those that take advantage of customers. There unfortunately are companies that advertise lower prices and then demand more payment once a reservation is made, for example. Some might also have huge hidden fees that you don’t notice until it is too late. When it comes to booking a moving company, cheaper is not always better. Be sure to look at reviews online before choosing a company, and don’t sacrifice quality for cost.

Consider parting with certain items

If you are moving from one house to another, you likely have a lot of furniture, appliances, clothing, and decor to pack up. However, now is a good time to evaluate what you want to bring into your new home, and what you can part with. Maybe you have a huge couch that you have never loved, for example. Instead of taking it with you, why not consider selling it before you move? This will put some extra money in your pocket that you can put toward the purchase of new furniture once you are in your new home. It can also help reduce moving expenses if there are fewer heavy pieces to haul out of your house. Often, people are uncertain about getting rid of items, and decide to store them in a locker space instead. While this is a good option for keeping sentimental items safe, it is often a waste of money when it is used on items you will never look at again. The less you have to store, the less you have to spend on storage space!

Try to time your move wisely

This aspect of moving may not always be within your control, as it will depend on when the sale of your home closes. However, you may be able to make some arrangements to help lower your moving expenses if you are hiring a moving company. These companies are often busiest at the very beginning and end of the month, as this is when most deals close and people need moving services. Additionally, weekends can be extra hectic, since this is when most working professionals have time off. If you are able to arrange a moving date for a weekday in the middle of the month, you are likely to have better luck finding a moving company at a lower rate. During times of lower demand, prices don’t tend to be as high for these services. Of course, this isn’t always possible, but it’s something to keep in mind!

DIY-ing it? Compare the costs of supplies

You might choose to do all the moving yourself instead of hiring a company. If this is the case, be sure to spend some time comparing the costs of different items you will need. For example, you will need to rent your own moving truck, and different companies can have huge differences in their daily rates. You will also need to buy moving supplies such as bubble wrap, boxes, packing tape, etc. These aren’t major expenses, but it’s still worth finding out where the best deals are. Plus, you need to consider whether you will have a crew of your own friends and family help you move. If so, think about how you will repay them, whether through money, gift cards, or a free meal. 

There are lots of ways to save on moving expenses if you are willing to be a little creative and think ahead. Whether you choose to sell some furniture, take on moving day yourself, or search for the right budget moving company, you can find solutions to reduce your moving costs. If you have any questions about your mortgage itself as you approach closing day, be sure to reach out to your mortgage broker! We are here to ensure this side of your closing day goes as smoothly as possible.

If you have any questions about your mortgage, give us a call at Centum Home Lenders! You can reach us at 506-854-6847, or get in touch with us here.