Moving is often a stressful process, not least of all because of the associated costs. Whether you’re a Seattle homeowner who’s made the big move before, or a new homeowner finally starting out on their own, there are several great ways to cut the costs of moving and make the whole process more bearable. Below are just some of the great ways to save a few dollars when moving.

  1. Ask for help: Moving is a great time to cash in on any favors you may have accumulated amongst friends, coworkers, or family members. For the low cost of free (or maybe some pizza when it’s all over), you’ll be surprised what all you can get accomplished. Assistance may come in the form of extra hands, free boxes, more vehicles, or a sitter for pets or kids that may get underfoot during the process. Make sure to remember your “thank you”s at the end!
  2. Toss what you can: Moving is a great time to downsize and consider what all you actually need. Go through your stuff as you pack and set aside anything that doesn’t fit, doesn’t work, or you forgot you had and really don’t need. It might surprise you how much stuff you’ve accumulated that you really don’t need. The less you have to move, the less time and effort you’ll spend getting everything relocated.
  3. Select a good “when”: Depending on your situation, you may want to select a weekday moving date, or a weekend one. A weekend date will cost more if you use a moving company, but for many people it won’t interfere with work schedules, and taking a day off to move may be an issue. On the other hand, you may be able to take the time off to move when it’s less hectic amongst other movers. There’s no perfect answer for the best moving day, so consider your own calendar before making a decision.
  4. Never pay for boxes: Between grocery stores, liquor shops, and many other retail locations, it’s very easy to receive free boxes rather than purchasing them from U-Haul. Besides free cardboard options, your house is probably filled with items that can be used as alternative packing supplies. Creatively utilize suitcases, drawers, trash cans, and baskets to move what you can. Additionally necessary fabrics can be used as cushioning for fragile materials—just remember that those items will be wrinkles and inconvenient when you get to the other end of the move!
  5. Consider tax deductions and job relocating: This point is primarily for those making a cross-country move. If you’re relocating for work, your new job may be willing to pay a portion of your moving expenses, so don’t be afraid to ask. Depending on your new job and housing situation, you may be eligible for tax deductions, so keep all receipts pertaining to the move and consult with a tax professional to check eligibility.
  6. Use mail wisely: You may want to consider using several mail-order systems for your move. Having food delivered to your new home come moving day will save you from buying takeout when your appliances aren’t ready to cook, and will mean one less headache when you get to your new home. Also, consider shipping your books and media to yourself. A 20-pound box of books costs around $12 to ship via USPS media mail, which may be cheaper than getting them professionally moved.
  7. Shop around: If you do need to use a professional moving company, check your options. Ask other movers if they’ll match a quoted price, request a fixed price instead of an estimate, and keep in mind what you can do for free (packing, for example) to give yourself a reduced cost for the rest of the process.

 

Moving is a hassle no matter how much it costs, but many headaches can be relieved by taking out as many costs as possible. If you’re looking to move in Seattle, make sure you explore all your cost-cutting options. Who knows—you may find some tips not included here that can save you even more!