How to Move on a Low Budget

Relocating to a new place can be expensive, especially if the new location is far from where you currently live. This is why you need to save whenever you can to lower your moving expenses. You need to have extra cash even after all your belongings have been transported to your new place because there will surely be emergency expenses.

There are a number of things that you need to know if you want to spend as little cash as possible during the move. Here are the things that you need to remember.

One of the best tips to save money during the move is to pick a date during the off-season when only a few people think about moving. For example, you can schedule your move in winter when people would rather stay inside the house. Avoid peak seasons such as summer vacation when school is out and the weather is excellent because the rates will surely be much higher.

Before the move, you should get rid of those things that you no longer want or need. If your kids are already grown up, you should consider selling or donating their toys, baby clothes, and cribs. If you are moving to a small apartment from a spacious bungalow, you should consider getting rid of your humongous sofa and get yourself a new one that will fit in your tiny living room. By downsizing your belongings, you have to use fewer boxes and a smaller moving vehicle, which in turn can lower your moving expenses.

Another way to save money during the move is to do the packing yourself. Put everything that you are planning to bring in boxes. Make a list of the boxes' content and paste it on the box. Write the word "Fragile" on those boxes where you put dinner plates, glasses, and china. Count all the boxes and make sure that you make an inventory in front of the moving company. The moving company's responsibility is to transport your things from your old place to your new location. They are not responsible if you forget to pack something or if some of your things are damaged due to incorrect packing.

When people decide to move, the first thing that they do is buy moving boxes and packing supplies. This can add up to your total expenses, especially if you have a lot of stuff to bring. What you can do to save money is to reuse packing materials. You can use those old boxes of home appliances sitting in your garage or attic for packing. You can also use travel luggage and bags to pack clothes. If you do not have boxes at home, you can always go to your local grocery store and ask if you can have a few large boxes free of charge. You can also ask friends to give you the boxes that they have used when they moved.

If you are relocating to a new place because of your work, you can write this off on your tax return to get a refund. Just make sure that you take note of the restrictions. For example, to be able to get a tax refund, the move must be within one year upon starting your new work. Your new place must also be at least 50 miles from your current location. You must also remain working in your new company at least 39 weeks after relocating. If you meet these criteria, you will be eligible for a tax refund.