The thought of moving can leave some people in a cold sweat. Not only does the prospect of going through years—sometimes decades—worth of their stuff seem daunting, the costs associated with a move can seem overwhelming.
Using plastic moving boxes like, BBX Moving, instead of cardboard boxes saves you money, but here are some other tips that can help you save on your move:
1. Plan ahead. Order your moving boxes online and have them delivered at your preferred time. Check for ongoing promotions. BBX Moving offers FREE delivery on certain orders.
2. Have everything packed up before the movers arrive. By frantically packing at the last minute on moving day, you’ll be paying for the time that a moving truck waits for you. You’ll also feel less stressed having everything ready to go the day before.
3. Move during an off-day. Move during the week rather than on a weekend/at the beginning of the month, when it is not only easier to book off an elevator in a building, but renting a truck or hiring a moving company is cheaper when the demand is lower.
4. Don’t pack the canned goods. While preparing for a move, try to use up your canned, prepared and frozen foods ahead of time to save room and avoid the added weight of prepared foods. If you do pack those canned goods - make sure to use your plastic moving boxes - not flimsy cardboard!
5. Let the utilities companies know that you’re moving. There’s nothing more frustrating than hooking up your new utilities only to find that you’ve forgotten to turn off billing at your old home, and paying for both. Let the hydro, phone, cable, gas and other utility companies know what day you are moving ahead of time to avoid double billing.
6. Collect your damage deposit. Some renters think that it’s easier to just leave their old dwelling unclean upon vacating to save time. Cleaning the home will cost you a fraction of what you’ll receive back, so it’s worth the effort.
7. Get insurance. If you’re moving a large number of items or lots of valuables, the cost of moving insurance can be very worthwhile.
8. Canadian tax credits. Track your moving expenses if you are moving 40km or more for a new job or to relocate your business. The Canadian government will issue deductions for qualified moves. We’re not accountants, so if this applies to you, read more on the CRA website.
9. Ask for cash. In addition to the tax deductions above, if you’re moving for a new job you may want to ask your new employer if they have a relocation plan to help offset your costs. Many small companies may not, but larger companies and government organizations often have moving policies. It can’t hurt to ask!
Want to actually make some money to offset the costs of moving? Consider going through the old moving boxes and closets in your home before you pack, and selling off items that you no longer use. You’ll find that thrift stores, Craiglist/Kijiji, and garage sales are an excellent place to offload some of your older or least used items while making some extra cash. For any of the smaller items that you can’t sell, donate to your favourite charity. If you need help organizing for your move, check out Professional Organizers in Canada.
Some of your bigger, unused items can really pay off if you are no longer using them—try eBay or antique stores when selling off valuables and collectables. Giving those items you no longer use a second chance is great for the earth, and it feels great to clear things out and start fresh in your new home!