Most of us will move house several times in our lives, and one thing is almost always the same — it ends up costing far more than expected. Between hiring movers, buying packing materials, and paying for cleaning, the expenses quickly add up. But moving doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning and creativity, you can cut your moving costs significantly.

Here are the most effective ways to save money on moving costs and make your next move much more budget-friendly.

Move at Off-Peak Times

The time and day you choose to move can have a big impact on the cost. Weekend moves and early mornings are the most popular, which means they are also the most expensive. If you can be flexible with your schedule, aim to:

• Move on a weekday, especially midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday).

• Book your move in the middle of the month rather than at the beginning or end.

• Choose an afternoon or evening slot if your movers allow it.

Lower demand often means lower prices. Even if you’re hiring a van rather than professional movers, rental companies usually offer cheaper rates at quieter times.

Invest in a Professional Clean to Protect Your Deposit

If you’re renting, one of the biggest costs you risk is losing your deposit. Hiring an end of tenancy cleaning service may sound counterintuitive when you’re trying to save money, but it can actually help you come out ahead.

For example, if a deep clean costs £150 but protects a £900 deposit, the maths makes sense. Check your tenancy agreement and consider whether a professional clean could safeguard your money.

Pack Everything Yourself

Movers often offer packing services, but this convenience comes at a high cost. You can save hundreds of pounds by packing your belongings yourself.

Start well in advance and tackle one room at a time. Clearly label each box and keep essentials separate so unpacking is easier. You’ll not only save money but also have better control over how your belongings are organised.

Extra tip: Save packaging from online deliveries once you know you’re moving. Bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, and paper can all be reused.

Source Free or Cheap Packing Materials

Buying brand-new moving boxes and bubble wrap adds unnecessary expense. Instead:

• Ask at your local supermarket or convenience store for spare boxes.

• Visit your local recycling centre (many allow you to take boxes for free).

• Check Facebook Marketplace, Freecycle, or local community groups.

• Buy in bulk on eBay or Amazon if you can’t source enough for free.

You can also cut down on bubble wrap by using items you already own: towels, bedding, curtains, and clothes all make excellent protective wrapping. Suitcases, laundry baskets, and hampers can double up as moving containers too.

Declutter Before You Move

The fewer items you move, the less it will cost. Moving is the perfect time to declutter and streamline your belongings.

Ask yourself: Do I really use this? Will it fit in my new home? Could someone else make better use of it?

Ways to lighten your load and save:

• Hold a garage sale or car boot sale.

• Sell unwanted items on eBay, Vinted, or Facebook Marketplace.

• Donate to charity shops or community groups.

Not only will you reduce your moving costs, but you might also make a little extra cash towards the move.

Use Your Recycling Centre for Disposals

If you have bulky items you don’t want to move, your local recycling centre can help. Councils often charge to collect large appliances like fridges or washing machines, but many recycling centres accept them for free if you drop them off.

It’s worth checking their rules in advance so you don’t pay for unnecessary removals.

Get Friends and Family Involved

If you’re moving locally, asking friends or family for help can save you the cost of professional movers altogether. Offer them a meal or takeaway as thanks, and make it a team effort.

Of course, this option depends on the size of your move and how much you own. For larger households, you may still need a van, but enlisting helpers can cut the time (and cost) in half.

Compare Moving Quotes

If you do decide to hire movers, don’t accept the first quote you’re given. Prices vary widely between companies, and you can save a lot by comparing.

• Get at least three quotes before booking.

• Ask what’s included (insurance, mileage, packing services).

• Check for hidden fees (such as weekend surcharges or stair charges).

Booking early often gives you access to better rates and ensures availability at your preferred time.

Consider a DIY Van Hire

Hiring a van and doing the heavy lifting yourself can be much cheaper than hiring a full-service moving company. This works especially well for small or local moves where you don’t need professional packers.

Compare van hire prices online, and check whether you need insurance add-ons. If you don’t drive or need extra help, consider hiring a man-and-van service, which is often cheaper than large removal companies.

Cancel or Transfer Utilities in Advance

One hidden moving cost is paying for services you no longer use. Make sure to:

• Cancel or transfer your broadband, TV, and phone contracts in advance.

• Inform your energy provider and provide final meter readings.

• Redirect your post with Royal Mail to avoid missed bills.

This not only saves money but also prevents hassle later.

Use Cashback and Vouchers

Moving house often means spending on supplies like boxes, tape, or new household essentials. Maximise savings by:

• Buying through cashback websites like TopCashback.

• Using voucher codes for discounts on cleaning products, furniture, or van hire.

• Taking advantage of loyalty schemes from supermarkets or DIY stores.

A little extra effort here can save a surprising amount overall.

Final Word

Moving house is one of life’s biggest expenses, but with the right strategies, you can keep costs under control. From packing yourself and sourcing free boxes to decluttering and moving at off-peak times, every small saving adds up.

By thinking creatively and planning ahead, you’ll not only cut your moving costs but also make the process smoother and less stressful. A move doesn’t have to drain your finances — with these tips, you can relocate on a budget and start the next chapter in your new home with money left in your pocket.

 

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