Moving costs can add up quickly, with long-distance moves across states racking up to several thousand dollars, but with the right steps, you can avoid spending more than necessary. Isaac’s Moving & Storage has helped thousands of people relocate over the past 30 years, and we’ve seen firsthand how smart planning can lead to real savings.
From choosing the right packing materials to making informed choices about professional moving companies and storage options, small decisions often make a big difference. This article walks you through practical tips on how to save money while moving to keep your budget in check while avoiding unnecessary stress or expense.
How to Save Money While Moving & Maintain Your Moving Budget
1) Sell household items you don’t want to keep
Hold a garage sale or yard sale. If there are plenty of household items you’re getting rid of, there could be a chance of you making more money from selling these items to the locals in the neighborhood. If you don’t like the idea of selling your things this way then you can try an online marketplace where friends or family members might also be interested.
If you think that any unwanted items are of any value be careful not to just give it away before checking its value. Have these items “appraised” to determine the appropriate value, as some smaller items may be worth more than you expect.
If you are donating anything to charity instead of selling it when moving out of your home, remember to ask for receipts so you can file it with your federal moving expenses deductions on your income taxes. This step is important to help reduce your tax burden and save you money.
2) Comparison shop for technology service providers
If your telephone, internet and cable service provider is likely to change when moving to another state, should call the provider sooner rather than later. See what deals they have and also shop around by different providers and see which one suits your needs. You can also ask for recommendations in local chat boards or Facebook groups to gather quotes and compare offers.
3) Consider downsizing after the move
It may seem counter intuitive, why would you pay to move items you might end up getting rid of anyway? If you are downsizing and moving into a smaller home there is always a temptation to give away furniture you may think you would not need, but it might make sense to wait before you do. This can avoid getting to your new home and seeing that you could have used some of your essential items, forcing you to go out and buy new ones instead of buying replacements.
4) Make arrangements to obtain your security deposit
If you are moving out of an apartment where you paid a security deposit, contact your landlord well in advance to arrange for it to be paid back to you. If you think there was any damage done that could compromise your security deposit, make sure you try to get it fixed ahead of time. Typically any small damage that may have occurred while you were living in the apartment will cost less to fix than your security deposit.
More Smart Ways to Cut Costs and Stay Flexible During Your Move
Not every move requires the same approach. Whether you’re relocating across town or planning a short distance move within the same city, the way you manage packing, transport, and timing can have a big impact on your overall moving budget.
Start by looking at your options. Hiring movers is often worth the cost when you factor in the time and heavy lifting they save, especially if you’ve recently moved before and remember how exhausting it can be. Still, if you’re comfortable managing part of the work yourself, a truck rental or portable moving container can be a cost effective solution.
When it comes to supplies, cut costs wherever possible. Many local stores and community groups offer free boxes, which can reduce what you spend on packing materials. Combine those with packing paper, bubble wrap, and sturdy packing tape to keep everything protected without overbuying. You can even use old clothes or towels to cushion fragile items instead of buying additional wrapping supplies.
Timing can also influence price. Moving during the off peak season, or even midweek, can help you secure lower rates on moving truck rentals and professional movers. If you have access to your own vehicle, consider making a few smaller trips yourself for lighter loads to save extra money. Every small decision—how and when you pack, what you haul, and who you hire—can make your upcoming move easier on both your schedule and your wallet.
Choose Isaac’s Moving Services for a Stress-Free Move
Relocation brings a mix of responsibilities and decisions, but finding ways to save money doesn’t have to be difficult. By using free packing supplies, donating items instead of moving them, and making other arrangements, it becomes easier to stay within your budget.
The right strategy can help you avoid last-minute expenses and make sure you’re paying only for what you need, whether you’re relocating a few blocks or preparing for a long distance move.
If you’re looking for experienced Boston professional movers who understand how to protect your belongings and save space during the move, Isaac’s is ready to assist.
For more guidance on how to plan ahead, review our tips on how to prepare for a move, and take the first step toward a more efficient move.
