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The Commonwealth at York

Planning a new move is an exciting time, but it comes at a cost. Most in-state moves cost an estimated $1,000, while out-of-state moves can cost upwards of $5,000. Moving expenses can be stressful, but they don’t have to break your bank account. With good planning, you can cut the cost of your move in half.

Whether you’re moving just minutes away or across the country, cutting costs requires planning ahead to determine which costs can be eliminated or cut back. Do you need to hire movers if you’re moving just down the street? Can you use a friend’s leftover boxes from a recent move, and eliminate packing expenses completely? If you have to hire movers, can you take the time to price out an affordable company you can rely on?

Determine your moving budget in advance and stick to it by using these 5 simple tips for saving on your moving expenses.

Plan Ahead
One of the first ways to save on your move is to start planning it as far ahead of time as possible. This will give you time to shop around for movers, or to take your time and move yourself. It’ll also give you choices as you move ahead-do you want to purchase new furniture on sale to be delivered to your home, or will it be less expensive to keep your existing furniture and pay to move it? Planning gives you the freedom to choose where you’ll spend your money, which will help you save as you go.

Free Boxes
Rather than pay hefty prices for expensive boxes, seek out free boxes from friends, neighbors or your local grocery or liquor store. While you may still have to invest in a few wardrobe boxes and specialty packing materials, getting most of your boxes for free can still save you hundreds of dollars.

DIY
If you’re willing and able to, move yourself rather than hire movers. Ask a group of friends to help you do the heavy lifting or dismantling of furniture, and pay them in free pizza or sandwiches. Movers are one of the highest moving expenses you’ll have, so do it yourself and save big time.

Declutter and Purge
Before you pack and begin your move, eliminate what you no longer need to take with you. You’ll cut back on moving expenses in the form of boxes and packing materials, and if you’ve hired movers, you’ll be able to cut back on the cost to move.

Shop Around
If you do decide to hire movers, shop around and price out the best option for you. Many moving companies charge differently, so you’ll need to do your homework and your math to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. Some moving companies charge by the hour, while others will offer you a flat price for your total move. Decide if you want help packing or unpacking, find a company with a good reputation and the best price, and you’ll be good to go when your moving day arrives.