4 Tips for Moving on a Budget
Moving to a new home is never easy. Not only do you have to uproot your whole life and make sure your family, pets, and belongings arrive at your new home safely in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s also the question of money to worry about.
Hiring a local moving company in San Diego, CA, that offers free estimates, uses a transparent pricing system, and handles things such as packing and unpacking your stuff for you, is an easy and effective way to save money and have a stress-free move. However, with a few small adjustments, you can make additional savings and further improve your moving experience.
We previously wrote about moving day etiquette and gave you some pointers on how to declutter your home prior to a move. Now we’ll help you have an even smoother move by providing you with 4 tips on how to save money while moving. Read on.
How to save money when moving?
Did you know that you can actually break even while moving, or even make money? It’s actually totally doable, especially if you’ve lived in your previous home for a long time and accumulated plenty of belongings you no longer use.
Here are the top 4 ways to save money during your move:
1. Moving for work? Ask for reimbursement
If the reason for your move is a job position in another city or state, you may be able to get your employer to cover the costs of moving or at least offer compensation for relocation. If you’re in the military, your moving expenses may also be tax-deductible. Consult with your tax advisor or accountant to figure out if you qualify for a write-off.
2. Sell the stuff you don’t need
Take a good look at your belongings. Do you truly need to hold onto all of them? Most people own a lot of stuff that they either don’t use (for example, that guitar you bought 10 years ago but never learned how to play) or have since replaced with better, more modern alternatives.
Selling this stuff will not only cover some of the costs of moving, it’ll also save you a lot of storage space at your new home.
Here’s how to get rid of unneeded belongings:
- Sell the items online
- Throw an estate sale or a garage sale
- List the items in a local Facebook community
- Use them to barter with family or friends
3. Donate the stuff you can’t sell
Once you’ve sold and bartered everything you can, grab the items that nobody wants and donate them to a thrift shop or a shelter. By getting an itemized receipt, you’ll be able to save even more money by writing off the donation on your income taxes.
4. Pack smart
Most of the time, there’s no need to splurge out on costly packing materials. Instead of purchasing a huge roll of bubble wrap, consider using common household items to pack fragile items.
Here are a few examples:
- Wrap glassware in socks
- Wrap plates in towels
- Check Craigslist and similar sites for people who are giving moving boxes away
Where can I find a top-quality local moving company in San Diego, CA?
With over 10 years of industry presence, a rigorous mover selection process, and hundreds of 5-star reviews, Move Central is San Diego’s top provider of moving and storage services.
By having us take care of all your moving needs, you’ll not just be having a hassle-free move, you’ll also be winning back the free time you need to focus on your other responsibilities or simply relax at the Balboa Park with your loved ones. Contact us today.