Cross-country moves are inherently overwhelming, but they pose unique stresses for military families. In addition to the intense amount of preparation, moving expenses, and packing required, spouse unemployment and loss of community are common anxiety-inducing challenges for veterans and their loved ones. Active-duty members and their partners also deal with child-care issues and worry about how their kids will adjust after relocating.
To alleviate moving-specific stresses, draft a thorough to-do list and plan accordingly. Keep everything organized by clearly labeling belongings and designating a specific area for each box to be placed. This tactic will minimize confusion and miscommunications that may lead to inconveniencing toddler tantrums.
5 Ways to Reduce Your Family's Moving Expenses
Besides extinguishing moving mishap fires, homeowners on the move will have a sizable financial pill to swallow. In terms of fees, the average cross-country move ranges between $6,000 to $9,000 when utilizing movers for a four-bedroom home. Since lowering moving expenses can also reduce financial stress, it’s essential to decrease costs as much as possible.
For those skeptical of a cost-cutting approach, rest assured that with these few simple tips, your relocation will go off without a hitch.
Take the frugal approach to car shipping services
Related: Tips for Moving to a New City
By applying a few surefire strategies, you’ll slash auto shipping charges drastically.
Be flexible with your drop-off and pickup dates
Unless you’re on a tight schedule, ask your carrier about the cheapest available time ranges to transport your vehicle.
Use timing to your advantage
If you’re not in too much of a hurry, save money by waiting to move your car during a less busy period. Generally, companies that move north to south (and south to north) are most crowded in the fall and spring, while coast-to-coast carriers are usually busiest from May to September.
Opt for open transport
Although your vehicle might be exposed to rain and dirt along the way, opting for open-carrier transportation will cut costs significantly. Enclosed transport, on the other hand, can be up to 50 percent pricier.
Choose your provider wisely
It’s essential to do your research before selecting a carrier. Make sure to partner with an affordable auto transport service provider like Guardian Auto Transport to limit spending without sacrificing quality.
Pack by yourself
While hiring a moving company might sound appealing, using a professional service will cost you thousands of dollars. Packing everything on your own–or enlisting your family to help–will help you slash costs and soothe moving-related stress.
Streamline the process by weeding out clutter and donating items you no longer use. Then, sort whatever you can by yourself before asking friends or neighbors to aid your efforts. Thank everyone for their assistance by providing lunch and drinks to ensure they stay hydrated and well-fed.
These room label stickers could be a lifesaver as well!
Related: Ways to Save Money When Moving
Find free boxes
On top of other moving costs, the price of boxes adds up quickly. This increase rings especially true if you have towering stacks of clothes, books, and dishes to pack. Instead of purchasing a massive quantity of brand-new supplies from the get-go, try asking around first. Check with friends, community groups, and grocery stores. You can also look online by browsing Craigslist, Facebook, and Nextdoor for free and unused boxes. People are always getting rid of boxes, this should never be an expense. If you start early collecting you may end up with too many boxes and that's a good problem to have!
Select the cheapest date and time
If you have your heart set on hiring professionally-trained movers, consider the season before making any final decisions. Choosing the best date to relocate is one of the simplest ways to save money. Peak times typically include the summer months from May to August, while prices begin to fall in September. Demand is often lowest during mid-week and mid-month days. Keep this ideal schedule in mind when booking a moving company for your family.
Deduct moving expenses when filing taxes
Related: 12 Genius Tips to Stop Spending Money
Despite careful preparation, a long-distance move is frequently filled with unexpected charges. You can mitigate extra spending by saving receipts and tracking moving-related costs. If you’re relocating due to a job, you might qualify to claim relevant expenses as a deduction on your federal income tax return the following year.
Build your new life on a financially-firm foundation by employing the following money-saving strategies. Remember, it’s never too late to minimize your moving expenses. Whether you start with second-hand cardboard boxes or affordable car shipping services, every penny saved will fund your upcoming furniture shopping spree or weekend renovation project.
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