Moving on a budget

There are many ways to save a little cash when planning a move.  Whether you are trying to save money on the move itself, prepping for the move, or for right after the move, these helpful tips can shave some of the cost off the price of a move.

#1 saving tip If you read around to the different articles on move-saving tips, boxes are always at the top of the list, and with good reason. There are many ways to save with boxes and it is one of the easiest ways to shave costs off your moving bill. Never use moving companies boxes. They are always more expensive than anywhere else you could buy boxes from. Other alternatives are to look on Craigslist for recent movers that are giving away boxes, or go to retail outlets that have just recently received a shipment --many times they will allow you to take their boxes.

Packing material Don't buy bubble wrap for your items, it is costly and isn't the smart way to wrap. Wrap fragile items in linens and towels - anything that you are also "moving". These can be your packing materials to keep things from breaking. Why wrap items in things you are going to throw away once at the home address? If you run out of fabric items that you are going to take with you, then you can also hit Craigslist for those same recent movers and see if they have packing materials to give away. Don't buy anything from the moving facility, it is over-priced and rarely a deal. Go to your local thrift store and stock up on inexpensive bedding for more packing materials. These can be used at your new place as drop sheets sheets if you paint.

Get discounts Always look online for discounts and coupon codes. You may be planning on moving Friday night and see a 50% off coupon if you did it on Thursday. Many companies offer great savings if you are going to be moving in an off-season or at an off-time for them, that way they boost business in a time when there is typically little.

Find employee incentives Many companies offer moving cost refunds and reimbursements, especially if the move is for the job. Always contact your HR department and see if your company will do this, or if you are recently hired, check with them to see if they supply moving costs that go along with the job.

Moving can be stressful and costly. Finding ways to save can help relieve some of the stress. While not all of these tips save tremendous amounts of cash, even small tips will add up and help in the long run.

About the Author: Tina Samuels writes on office furniture, both literally and topically.