Preparing Financially for a Move

When it comes to moving into a new home or even a new region, anyone who’s ever done it can tell you that it’s stressful and it can be expensive. Regardless of your budget, you’re going to run into unexpected costs, and you’re going to have to make decisions regarding your method of moving and how much you want to spend. Some households are able to hire movers, while others opt for a less expensive DIY move. However, there are a number of ways to make your move less stressful and expensive so you can settle into your new home with ease.

 

  • Consider a DIY move.  If you’re comfortable renting a U-Haul and packing everything yourself, you’ll find that you save quite a bit of money, and you won’t have to spend precious time getting quotes from movers. However, if you know you’ll need to hire a professional, you can also save money by procuring boxes and packing paper and doing the packing yourself. If you know you have the stress threshold to handle it on your own, you’ll save a good chunk of change.

 

  • Downsize, downsize, downsize.  In 2019, downsizing and decluttering was all the rage. Of course, it’s always best to start downsizing early, so you have one less thing to worry about when your move gets under way. Take stock of what you’ll need in your new home, and what you don’t need. Donating outdated or worn clothing to local charities or shelters can give you a tax write-off, as can any donation if you save a receipt. If you have large appliances that are older and out of date, consider selling or donating them. Decreasing the amount of items you intend to move will save you quite a bit of money upfront.

 

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help.  If you’re moving locally and live in an area where you know people, or have a solid support base, it can’t hurt to ask for moving help. Offering pizza and drinks can go a long way, and you’d be surprised how many people understand the stress of moving and are willing to lend a hand. If you have a friend with a truck, you can always ask to borrow it in exchange for gas, and you can ask your local grocer or department store if they’re willing to donate or sell old boxes.