Moving to a new house can be an exciting yet challenging adventure. There is the thrill of starting new and building your life in a new house. There are also challenges that make it quite daunting as well. For instance, the costs associated with moving houses can add up fast.
It’s really important to find ways to save money without compromising on the quality of the move. Fortunately, with careful planning and a solid strategy, it is possible to reduce moving expenses.
In this article, we will go over a few tips to help you bring down those moving costs that you can then use on your new house.
1 – Start planning early
Planning early is key to saving money when moving. When you give yourself enough time, you can make better choices and avoid rush fees. Start by making a moving timeline. This is a plan that lists all the things you need to do before the big day.
Include when to start packing, when to hire movers like Easy Company Moving, and when to set up your new utilities.
Since moving companies charge based on weight or space used, sort through your stuff and get rid of things you don’t need.
Sell or give away items that are still in good shape. The less you have to move, the less it will cost. If you have fewer things, you might even be able to fit everything into a smaller, cheaper moving truck.
By starting early, you can also take the time to find free or cheap packing materials. You might be able to get boxes from stores or friends who have recently moved.
2 – Save on moving materials
When it comes to moving, the cost of packing supplies can add up quickly. However, there are many ways to gather affordable materials to help you save.
Start by asking friends, family, or neighbors if they have any boxes or packing materials left over from their own moves.
Local stores are another great place to find free boxes. Many businesses receive shipments in sturdy boxes that they then recycle or throw away. Grocery stores, bookstores, and liquor stores are all good places to ask.
In addition to finding boxes, think about what you already have at home that could be used for packing. Old newspapers, towels, and clothing can all be used to wrap and protect your items.
3 – Claim deductions
If you think you might be eligible to claim moving expenses on your taxes, make sure to keep all your receipts and records related to the move.
This includes costs for packing and shipping your belongings, travel expenses for you and your family, and any costs related to moving your vehicles or pets. However, keep in mind that not all expenses are deductible.
To claim your moving expenses, you will need to fill out the appropriate form when you do your taxes. The form will ask for detailed information about your move and your expenses, so it’s important to talk to a tax professional.