Moving is exciting, but it can also drain your bank account faster than you expect. Between security deposits, moving trucks, utility transfers, packing supplies, and unexpected fees, the costs can add up quickly.
The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to relocate successfully. With a little planning and a few smart strategies, you can cut hundreds from your moving expenses. Here are 18 practical ways to save money on your next move without making the process more stressful.
Start Planning Early
One of the easiest ways to save money is simply giving yourself enough time. Starting at least two to three months before your move allows you to budget, compare prices, gather free supplies, and avoid costly last-minute decisions.
Declutter Before You Pack
The less you move, the less you’ll spend. Sell, donate, or discard anything you no longer use, so you’re not paying movers to transport items that will just sit in storage or clutter your new home.
Collect Free Boxes and Packing Supplies
Before spending money on new boxes, check grocery stores, liquor stores, bookstores, community groups, and neighborhood Facebook pages. You can also save bubble wrap and packing paper from online orders in the months leading up to your move.
Use What You Already Own for Packing
Suitcases, laundry baskets, storage bins, reusable shopping bags, and tote bags can all serve as moving containers. Towels, blankets, sheets, and clothing can also replace expensive packing materials for fragile items.
Compare Multiple Moving Quotes
Never hire the first moving company you contact. Getting at least three written estimates allows you to compare pricing, services, and reviews while helping you avoid overpaying.
Book Movers Well in Advance
Moving companies often charge more as availability becomes limited. Booking several weeks or even months ahead can help you lock in lower rates.
Move During the Off-Season
Summer is peak moving season, which means higher prices across the board. If possible, schedule your move between October and April when demand is lower and discounts are easier to find.
Choose a Weekday Move
Weekend moves are typically more expensive because they’re in higher demand. Moving Monday through Thursday can often result in noticeably lower rates.
Consider a DIY Move
If you’re moving locally and don’t have a large household, renting a truck and recruiting a few friends may cost far less than hiring a full-service moving company.
Explore Portable Moving Containers
Portable containers can be cheaper than traditional movers for some relocations. You handle the packing while the company transports the container to your new location.
Pack Before Movers Arrive
Movers typically charge by the hour. Having everything packed, labeled, and ready to go before they arrive helps reduce labor costs and keeps your bill lower.
Disassemble Furniture Yourself
Taking apart beds, tables, and shelving units before moving day saves valuable time. It can also reduce the amount movers charge for additional services.
Move Small Items Yourself
Consider transporting valuables, electronics, jewelry, important documents, and smaller boxes in your own vehicle. This reduces moving volume and gives you more control over fragile belongings.
Ask About Hidden Fees
Before signing a contract, ask about fuel charges, stair fees, long-carry fees, elevator fees, and additional labor costs. Understanding the full cost upfront helps avoid expensive surprises later.
Check Building and HOA Requirements
Many apartment buildings and condos charge move-in, move-out, elevator reservation, or parking fees. Knowing these costs ahead of time prevents unexpected charges from blowing your budget.
Related: HOA Practices That Cause Homeowners the Most Frustration
Negotiate With Moving Companies
Many movers are willing to match or beat competitors’ quotes. If you receive a lower estimate elsewhere, don’t be afraid to use it as leverage during negotiations.
Look for Coupons and Discounts
Moving companies, truck rentals, storage facilities, and packing suppliers frequently offer promotional codes. Check coupon websites, local relocation guides, and community websites before booking.
Related: The Top 10 States Californians Are Moving to Right Now
Ship Certain Items Separately
For long-distance moves, it can sometimes be cheaper to ship clothing, bedding, books, or other non-fragile household items via UPS, FedEx, or USPS than to pay movers by weight.
