Save money on your next move

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Moving can be a challenge for even the most organized households.


1. LIGHTEN THE LOAD. More stuff means you’ll need to rent a bigger, more expensive truck. Moving companies typically set rates based on a combination of how much your belongings weigh and how far they need to be moved.


2. AVOID A SUMMER MOVE. It’s best to avoid moving from mid-June through mid-September.

“That’s the time of year kids are out of school and moving companies are stretched very thin,” said Eric Reed, the director of corporate business for AIReS, a relocation management company.


It’s also cheaper to move in the middle of a month rather than at the end, when apartment leases tend to expire.

3. COMPARISON SHOP. Get at least three estimates from moving companies. That can be done directly or on sites such as, which lets users itemize the items they need to move, then generates a list of movers and rate estimates.

Ideally, you want to get an estimate that’s specific to your situation. That means having the movers come over and review what you’ll need moved. Then you can ask for a written estimate.

Many companies will provide an all-inclusive, guaranteed price if pressed, said Sharone Ben-Harosh, the CEO of FlatRate Moving in New York.


If you’re using a mover, check that it is certified by the American Moving and Storage Association. For a directory of companies screened by AMSA, a moving checklist and more pointers on dealing with moving firms, go to .

4. UNDERSTAND INSURANCE OPTIONS. Moving companies tend to include basic insurance coverage in their service, generally around 60 cents per pound, per item.

It might be worth considering a policy that offers full replacement coverage on high-value items, but you’ll want to get insurance estimates as well, as those costs can add up quickly.

5. HAGGLE. Make it clear that you’re going to get estimates from several other firms, said Matt Spinolo, of employee relocation company Cartus Corp. A company could offer to match or undercut a rival’s lowest rate.

6. WRITE IT OFF. The IRS permits a tax deduction on moving expenses that are incurred in connection with relocating for work. That includes costs of moving household items, such as boxes, truck rental or shipping, along with travel expenses such as airfare or gas.



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7. DO IT YOURSELF. You can always save the most money by doing it yourself.

But even if you go DIY, it doesn’t have to be all on you. Consider services that rent large containers and then transport them to your destination. This option can be several hundred dollars cheaper than renting a truck, particularly if you’re moving across the country.

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