5 Tips for Saving Money on Your Move

Whether you’re relocating across town or across the country, moving is a big endeavor.  

Between packing and labeling boxes, worrying about whether you used enough bubble wrap on Grandma’s china, and corralling clutter, it’s pretty much impossible to keep the whole process stress-free. Factor in the financial burden of a move and it’s enough to make some would-be homebuyers wish they could forget the whole thing. 

But no! You love that new nest of yours. And while you can’t control everything about the move (you didn’t need the whole china set anyway, right?)—you can manage money stress by heeding some smart saving strategies. 

5 Money-Saving Moving Tips 

1. Use a moving cost calculator. They’re easy to find online and will help you set a realistic expectation for how much you can expect to spend.  
   
   
2. Get more than one estimate. Ask friends and family for moving company recommendations and check into the ones you like best. But remember: You often get what you pay for, and the lowest bid may not yield the best results.  
   
   
3. Consider a DIY move. If you’re moving a short distance and have the time and motivation—and maybe a few friends who owe you a favor—moving yourself is a less-expensive option. However, what you save in cash could cost more in blood, sweat, and tears. (A self-move isn’t for the faint of heart.)  
   
   
4. Hold a moving sale.The less you have, the less you have to move. Get everyone in your family to gather up items they no longer need or want and have a good old-fashioned yard sale. It’s a win-win: You can make some extra money while offloading excess stuff.  
   
   
5. Seek out free (or cheap) moving supplies.Cardboard boxes and packing paper can be pricey if you purchase them from moving companies. Hit up your neighbors, family, friends, local social media trade sites, and retailers to ask for boxes and other supplies people are willing to hand off.