Moving can be an exciting step, but it also comes with its fair share of financial and logistical challenges. From finding a new apartment to hiring movers, the costs can quickly add up if you’re not prepared. Without a clear budget, it’s easy to underestimate expenses and end up with unexpected bills. This guide will help you understand the different costs associated with moving and provide tips to save money along the way.
The Costs of Moving
Moving costs can vary greatly depending on your circumstances, such as the distance of your move, the number of belongings, and whether you hire professionals or handle everything yourself. These expenses can sneak up on you, from the obvious costs like hiring movers to hidden fees like boxes, packing materials, storage, or transportation. Understanding each aspect of the moving process will help you prepare a more accurate budget.
Time Spent Searching for an Apartment
Before you even pack a box, you’ll need to invest time and, potentially, money in finding your new place. Online listings, application fees, and time off work for viewings can add up. If you’re moving to a competitive market.
Hiring Movers
Depending on the distance and the number of belongings, the costs of movers can vary. Local moves typically cost less, while long-distance or moving between provinces will be pricier. Be sure to get multiple quotes from reputable moving companies. At The Home Depot, for example, you can request a consultation for moving services, as well as price out the cost of packing supplies. You can also check out local moving services like Let’s Get Moving for fully customized moving services.
Packing Supplies
Packing materials like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and markers can quickly add up. You can save by sourcing free boxes from grocery stores or friends and reusing materials you already have. Online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji often have boxes at discounted prices—or even for free. Check out your local hardware stores for supplies and affordable packing materials. Additionally, retailers that offer moving services or transportation rentals, like Home Depot and U-Haul, also carry a variety of packing supplies.
Transportation Expenses
If you’re handling the move yourself, you’ll need to factor in the cost of renting a truck, fuel, and any tolls along your route. Even if friends are helping, consider helping cover their fuel or meals as a thank-you. If you’re renting a truck, you may also want to look into renting moving blankets to protect your furniture during transit—these can often be found at your local hardware store or where you rent your truck. For truck rentals in London, check out The Home Depot, Enterprise Truck Rentals, and U-Haul for a few options.
Potential Storage Fees
Sometimes you may need to rent temporary storage. Storage unit prices vary based on size and location, so be sure to shop around if this applies to your move. Consider Access Storage or Forest City Storage for a few options.
Top 10 Tips for Saving Money During a Move
Moving doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are ten practical ways to save money on your move:
- Start Planning Early – The sooner you start preparing, the more time you have to compare prices and find cost-saving opportunities.
- Declutter Before You Move – Sell, donate, or recycle items you don’t need to reduce moving costs. Fewer belongings mean fewer boxes and potentially a smaller moving truck.
- Leverage Free Packing Supplies – Ask local businesses for free boxes, reuse materials you already have, and check online marketplaces like Facebook and Kijiji.
- Move During Off-Peak Times – If possible, avoid moving at the beginning or end of the month, as prices tend to be higher. Mid-week and mid-month moves can be more affordable.
- Get Multiple Quotes for Movers or Rentals – Whether hiring movers or renting a truck, comparing prices from different providers ensures you get the best deal.
- Borrow Instead of Buy – Ask friends or family if they have dollies, packing blankets, or extra supplies instead of purchasing or renting them.
- Enlist Friends and Family – Instead of hiring movers, see if friends or family can help. Just be sure to provide snacks and drinks as a thank-you.
- Pack Efficiently – Use suitcases, laundry baskets, and storage bins you already own to cut down on the number of boxes needed.
- Check for Employer or Tax Deductions – If your move is job-related, your employer may offer relocation assistance, or you might qualify for tax deductions.
- Plan for Hidden Costs – Unexpected expenses can arise, from last-minute packing supplies to cleaning fees for your old apartment. Having a buffer in your budget will help prevent financial surprises.
Budgeting & Money Saving Tips for a Stress-Free Move
Moving doesn’t have to break the bank—with a little planning and smart decision-making, you can keep your costs under control. Here are some practical tips to help you save money and reduce stress during your move.
Leverage Free Resources
Reduce costs by borrowing packing supplies or using free boxes from local businesses. If you have access to a reliable vehicle and a few friends who can help, consider handling the move yourself to cut down on moving service costs.
Research and Compare Prices
Whether you’re looking for movers, rental trucks, or storage units, comparing prices can lead to significant savings. Read reviews, get multiple quotes, and choose the most cost-effective option that meets your needs.
Plan for Hidden Costs
Unexpected expenses are common during a move, so it’s important to budget beyond the basics. Extra packing supplies, last-minute transportation fees, or even additional cleaning costs can add up quickly.
Move-out and move-in costs can also be a factor. If you’re leaving a rental, you may need to cover professional cleaning or minor repairs to secure your full security deposit. In your new home, some utility providers require a deposit when setting up services, particularly if you’re a first-time customer or moving out of province.
It’s always better to overestimate your moving budget to avoid financial surprises.
Managing Moving Costs with Summit Properties
Moving comes with many expenses, like searching for an apartment, hiring movers, packing supplies, transportation expenses, and storage fees. However, with the right planning, leveraging free resources, researching, and planning for hidden costs, you can keep costs manageable and reduce financial stress. Ready to find your next apartment? Explore Summit Properties’ Apartments for Rent listings to discover your perfect new home.