Whether you are moving locally in Boston, across the country (interstate), or internationally – moving can be a daunting and stressful time in your life and on your wallet. We asked the Humboldt Experts the best ways to save some $ when moving.

Move During Off Peak Times. Like most businesses, moving rates fluctuate depending on the day, week, or month. If you are flexible on your loading date, work with your moving company to select the least expensive date. Typically: Friday – Sunday, the 1st and last weeks of the month, and May – September are considered “peak times” as most people will choose to move during these times. Select a load date early in the week (Monday – Wednesday), mid-month (2nd and 3rd weeks), and September – April, all of which are considered “off peak” times.

Move during off peak times to save money.

Move during off peak times to save money.

Avoid Guesstimates. While online and phone moving estimates are quick and easy to acquire, they often are vague and the rates end up doubling or tripling by the time your move is complete. To get the most accurate moving quote, meet with your moving company in person in your home. Be as detailed and clear as possible so the moving company can provide the correct crew, truck, packing materials, etc. For local moves, your estimate will usually be priced at an hourly rate. For interstate moves, your estimate is usually based on the weight and distance of your move. If an estimate seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Get in home estimates with professionals to save money on your move.

Get in home estimates with professionals to save money on your move.

Lighten Your Load. Sell, sell, sell! It costs less to move less, so spend some time purging your home before the move by having a yard sale or selling items online or using apps. (Craigslist, Facebook, eBay, OfferUp, LetGo, PoshMark) Consider your new home and whether your belongings will all work in the new space. The last thing you want to do is move a couch cross country to find out it does not fit in your new living room.

Have a yard sale to get rid of items before your to move save money.

Have a yard sale to get rid of items before your to move save money.

Tax Deductions. As we said earlier, it costs less to move less! Donate unwanted belongings to a local charity to receive a tax deduction. A gift to a qualified charitable organization may entitle you to a charitable contribution deduction against your income tax if you itemize deductions. If the gifts are deductible, the actual cost of the donation is reduced by your tax savings. Federal tax laws also allows you to deduct your moving expenses if your relocation relates to starting a new job or a transfer to a new location for your present employer. To qualify for the deduction, your new work location must be a sufficient distance from your old home and you must begin working shortly after you arrive.

Donate items for a tax reduction to save money on your move.

Donate items for a tax reduction to save money on your move.

Do It Yourself. Some small do-it-yourself tasks can mean big savings on your move. Use free, discounted, or used boxes to pack items yourself. But be warned, a mover is generally not responsible for boxes packed by the customer. Consider reselling your boxes after the move if they remain in good condition. If you have the original TV or computer monitor boxes – consider packing these items back in their original custom boxes. Take apart your furniture yourself to save even more on move day. As we mentioned earlier, local moves are usually charged per hour. Save the movers some time by having beds, bookshelves, tables, desk, etc. broken down and ready to move.

Pack boxes yourself to save money on your move.

Pack boxes yourself to save money on your move.

The Friends and Family Discount. Ask friends and family to assist in lightening your load and selling off your unwanted items. Whether they share your “For Sale” items list on Facebook or help out with a yard sale. On move day, ask friends and family to help watch children or pets off site to save some major cash on babysitters and pet boarding. If you are moving long distance and driving overnight for your interstate or international move, reach out to friends and family along the way to save on hotel costs.

Reach out to friends and family to watch children and pets during your move to save money.

Reach out to friends and family to watch children and pets during your move to save money.

Use a Trustworthy Mover. Do your research and select the right mover based on your budget and move requirements. Read online reviews, ask your friends and family for referrals, and research the history of the company. While some movers may seem more expensive up front, you get what you pay for. The more expensive up front option might save you money in the long run by avoiding damages, missing items, and claims after the move.

Research and use a trustworthy mover to save money on your move.

Research and use a trustworthy mover to save money on your move.

Are you ready for your next relaxing moving experience? If you’re moving soon, give our team a call today and let’s get started!