8 Money-Saving Tricks to Know When Booking Movers

Whether you’re relocating locally or moving across the country, hiring movers doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With a little foresight and the right questions, you can cut moving costs significantly without sacrificing quality or peace of mind.

Here are some effective strategies you can use to plan and save money when hiring movers:

1. Time it Right

Most people schedule moves on weekends, at the end of the month, or during the summer, driving up demand and prices.

Book your move on a weekday, ideally mid-month and outside of peak season (October–April) to get better rates.

2. Get Multiple Quotes

One common mistake is booking the first mover that responds. Rates for the same move can vary widely between companies, depending on the move you’re making.

“I think the easiest, lowest hanging fruit is to have a quality company that's insured and bonded with good reviews,” Keith Schroeder, writer of The Wealthy Accountant, said.

Collect quotes from a few different licensed moving companies. Ensure each estimate includes a breakdown of charges: labor, mileage, equipment, and additional services.

3. Ask About Additional Fees

Moving companies sometimes add fees for services that aren’t included in base estimates. Before you sign a contract, be sure to clarify any additional charges for:

• Stairs or elevator access

• Long carry distances

• Oversized or heavy items

• Use of extra packing materials

• Last-minute changes or cancellations

4. Pack Strategically

Hiring movers to pack your belongings is convenient but can add up quickly. Free boxes can be sourced from places like local stores, community boards, or recycling groups.

If you do opt to have movers help you pack, it can benefit you to investigate moving insurance. It can help ensure that you receive compensation for any items lost or damaged in the move.

5. Ask About Discounts Available

Many moving companies offer discounts to certain individuals and communities. Common eligibility includes:

• Military personnel (active and retired)

• Seniors

• Students/Teachers

• First responders

• AAA members

Some companies, like U-Haul, have discounts and deals anyone can take advantage of.

6. Consider a Hybrid Move

A “hybrid move” is a combination of DIY and professional moving. You do some yourself and leave the rest to a moving company.

There are a few different ways to execute a hybrid move. A common method involves packing your belongings yourself and renting a van for transportation and allowing a professional moving company to handle the heavier lifting and loading.

The distance, Schroeder says, is an important factor in the costs as well.

“It really boils down to how far you're going,” he said. “You go cross country, your cost is going to be pretty significant.”

7. Declutter Before You Pack

The fewer items you have to move, the less you’ll have to pay. Moving companies often charge based on weight and/or time, so reducing the load makes a big difference.

Sell, donate, or dispose of items you no longer need before you start the process of packing and hiring movers. Not only will you save on moving costs, but you might also earn some money in the process.

“If you have stuff that you're not going to use, just yard sale, rummage sale, donate to goodwill,” Schroeder said. “And you can get a tax deduction if you itemize, so there can be some benefit there.”

8. Read the Fine Print and Check Reviews

Before committing to a mover, it’s a good idea to verify that they are licensed and insured. Moving companies often have reviews on their websites, but for an unbiased view, it’s better to look elsewhere.

Always read your contract carefully. Make sure you understand the company’s cancellation policies, insurance and liability coverage, and what’s included in your rate.

Smart planning can drastically reduce the cost of hiring movers. Be flexible, shop around, ask the right questions, and take the time to pack efficiently. A little preparation goes a long way, not just in saving money, but in ensuring a smoother, less stressful move.

For more information about moving and house hunting, visit newhomesource.com/learn.