Saving Moving For Moving

How to Save Money FOR Moving

So, typically you'll see posts about saving money ON your move. While this is really important when you're moving on a budget, it's not what we're talking about today…this time we're addressing how to save money FOR your move. 

If you've faced the facts that moving long-distance has the potential to put at least a small dent in your bank account, you can probably see the value in saving a little money before the big day.  If you haven't read it already, check out the "How much does it cost to move across country" post.  It'll help you estimate how much to put back. 

Here are some suggestions for where to start cutting back and saving to prepare for the big event:

Create a budget.  I'm a fan of having a budget.  It's very healthy to know how much money you have and where it's all going.  When you don't, it's really easy to overspend on unnecessary stuff— not something you want to do when you're trying to save.  So my recommendation is to use either an online resource or good ole' fashioned pen and paper.  Start with all of your sources of income, then budget for all current bills/payments and any expected upcoming expenses you want (or need) to save for (like deposits, new furniture, cleaning fees, decorations, movers etc.).  Some great budgeting websites are mint.com, AceMoney Lite, and MoneyStrands. 

Lessen spending. Easier said than done, right?  I think you'll find that staying true to your budget will result in more money in the bank at the end of the month…that is if your spend isn't more than your income.  If saving money isn't possible due to money in/money out, look at your discretionary expenses (things you like, but could do without).  Is there anything you can cancel, quit purchasing (i.e. eating out, movies, magazine subscriptions etc.)?  When you cut out the unnecessary stuff, you may be surprised how much you're able to save.

Begin making shopping lists.  Guaranteed. If you have a list, you'll spend less money when you go to the store.  It's amazing how that works.  All of the unnecessary stuff you throw in the basket goes away. Try it.  If you've got a smart phone, try using a Grocery App like Grocery Gadgets or Grocery IQ.   

Start turning off the lights.  I saw a story on Oprah once about a lady who saved a ton of money each month by being diligent about turning things off/unplugging things.  I tried it and reduced by electric bill by an average of about $30/month.  Every little bit counts, right?  The things this lady was unplugging was a little over-the-top…but you can at least turn off all of your easy-to-get-to kitchen appliances, hair dryer, lamps, night lights etc.  And don't forget to turn the lights off when you leave the room. 

Stop spending money as a stress reliever.  If you're following your budget, this won't be difficult.  But, oh…so tempting.  Instead, try taking a walk or calling a friend.

Sell some stuff.  Whether you want to take the plunge and have a full-fledged garage sale, take your stuff to a consignment store or you just want to throw some things on Craig's List, you might be surprised about the money you can sock away when you get rid of the things you don't need or use anymore.  Large items like furniture, tools etc. usually bring in the most money, but consign the clothes you haven't worn in a year and cha-ching!

Start using coupons.  As long as you're using the coupons for things you were actually planning to buy, coupons are a great way to save money.  You may actually be able to lower your budgeted amount on groceries if you get really good at this. 

Now, if you want to save money ON your move…we've got that covered too.  It's easy to get a MoveBuilder moving estimate.  Just call or click and a MoveBuilder representative will be happy to help!

We hope this list gets you started on your journey to save money for your move.  Have other ideas to cut back on spending so you can put more in savings?  Share them with us!