Reduce Stress and Save Money on Your Move
Moving can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. Long-distance moving can come with its own extra set of challenges, financial and otherwise. ultimately having the right long distance mover in your corner working for you is the best assurance of a smooth and within budget move. There are, however, numerous things you can do that will help reduce costs, stress and maybe even add in a little fun.
10 Helpful Moving Tips
1. Create A Budget
Knowing what you want to spend on moving and looking at the cost of various parts of the move (as well as your time involved) can help you save because you will know exactly what it is you can afford to spend. If you have priced out what it should cost you for storage, packing, moving, and time off from work then you are more likely to stick to that plan instead of incurring random costs along the way. This can help you save money on your long distance moving.
2. Start Packing Early
Packing early can help you save because you will know exactly what you need to bring with you, and exactly what you can leave behind (see #4). If you can collect boxes and spend time packing early on, you will end up taking less time out of your day closer to the move, leaving your time free for other things. And as the old adage goes, time is money!
3. Timing Is Everything
Most people move at the same time. Weekends, end of the month, and the summertime are often the busiest time for moving. According to the law of supply and demand, the less popular moving times will be less expensive. Very few people move in the winter, mid-week, or mid-month – they aren’t typical times for moving.
4. Ditch Some Of Your Stuff
Getting rid of items you don’t need will earn you some money. If you can sell items you do not need to keep, you can put what you make towards moving costs. Another option is to donate items and get a receipt from the donation to put towards deductions in your taxes, bringing you back some income that you wouldn’t have had otherwise. The less you have to pack and move, the less expensive it is.
Make sure to also measure your new place to ensure that your existing furniture will fit. If not, this is a good time to get rid of what you can and have time to sell it!
5. Get Some Coffee (Filters)
Deciding what to pack items in can be tough, and buying packing supplies is expensive! Many articles suggest using your old sheets and towels, but then you have a lot of laundry to do in addition to unpacking. Coffee filters are a great alternative for packing. They are generally cheap, don’t have ink that can leak onto your items (like newspaper does) and are easily recyclable. If you are worried about the effect on the environment, you can pack your items in biodegradable filters that have less of an impact on the world around you and still keep your items safe!
6. Figure Out What You Can Deduct
Depending on where you are moving and when, some of your moving costs may be eligible for deductions on taxes. In Canada, you can claim moving expenses if you are self-employed or a student, and in some cases for job relocation.Check with the CRA or IRS to see if you are eligible to deduct moving expense from your taxes.
In addition to the tax deductions, if you are moving for a new job then see if your new employer will cover some of the costs of your moving. It never hurts to ask.
7. Collect & Record Receipts
Regardless of whether or not you know you are eligible, keeping a record of your receipts and all fees that are incurred due to moving can let you know the exact costs of the endeavour. This way, if you do find out that you are eligible for tax deductions, you are organized and can claim them in the future without having to dig up receipts that you may have gotten rid of during the busy time.
8. Hit Up The Dollar Store
The options at the dollar store never cease to amaze – they have everything! When you’re moving, this is the best place to find cleaning supplies and packing tape. You can save a lot of money by shopping off-brand and cheaper options at the dollar store or by buying in bulk.
9. Sell Your Boxes
Buying boxes can be an incredibly expensive part of moving. Something you can do (if you keep your boxes in good condition) is selling them when you’re done moving to make some of your money back. Many other people are also looking to save when they move, and passing this moving tip on can earn you some of your money back.
10. Stay With Friends Or Family
Are you moving long distance? If you can, plan your route so you can stay with friends and family on the way, which will help you save money on hotels and food. It is also a good way to catch up with people you may not have seen in awhile!
It is our hope that these moving tips help you save money on your move. Whether it is a short or long distance move, it is always good to keep an eye on your expenses. At Trans-Canada movers, we’re committed to helping you save during your move while also giving you a hassle-free experience.