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Saving Money on your Next Move

With the rising cost of living, many people are looking for ways to cut unnecessary expenses and make their money go further. Whether you’re moving locally or long distance, there are several strategies to save money without compromising on quality.

We’ve compiled practical tips to help you save money and reduce waste during your move. These include using repurposed materials for packing, selling or donating old furniture to lighten your load, and exploring affordable transportation options. With a little planning and creativity, you can keep your moving costs low while minimizing environmental impact.

Re-Use Boxes and Packing Materials

Many people overlook the costs associated with packing, especially when they have children or a large number of items to sort through. Purchasing boxes from hardware or container stores can quickly add up.

However, many retailers, such as large grocery stores or liquor stores, receive frequent shipments and often discard sturdy boxes that are perfect for moving. Taking advantage of these free resources can significantly reduce your packing expenses.

How To Save

  • Ask local grocery or liquor stores for leftover boxes, friends/family who recently moved
  • Check community groups like Facebook Marketplace for free or discounted packing supplies.
  • Reuse items like old newspapers, towels, or blankets for padding to save on bubble wrap or packing paper.

Declutter Before Packing

What one person considers clutter, another might consider treasure. Sort through your belongings before packing to decide what to keep in your new home. Unwanted items can be given to someone who will use them. 

Selling second-hand items can help you declutter and boost your moving funds. Consider donating unsold items to local charities in Ottawa like Helping with furniture. This step helps make moving around Ottawa more affordable and also benefits a good cause.

Decluttering has benefits beyond saving money. It makes packing and moving easier and less stressful. Additionally, beginning anew in your new space with minimal clutter creates a more positive and organized living environment. Moving costs are determined by the amount of items you have, so having fewer items to transport will result in lower costs.

How To Save

  • Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need.
  • Host a garage sale or list items on local resale platforms to earn extra cash.
  • Remember: fewer items mean fewer boxes and lower moving expenses.
Save Money on Moving

Sell Unused and Bulky Items

This option is best for people moving far away. Transporting your belongings over long distances can often be more expensive than the furniture itself. Compare the costs of moving large furniture like sofas and beds with buying them new or used in your new location. 

How To Save

  • Sell bulky or rarely used items before moving.
  • Use the proceeds to purchase items that better fit your new space.

Plan Your Move in the Off-Season

The key to inexpensive moving in Ottawa is all about timing. If your moving dates can be changed, think about moving during the off-peak seasons, usually from late fall to early spring. During slow times, moving services are cheaper and more available due to reduced demand. 

During these months, moving companies usually have good deals and discounts. You can save money and receive better service from movers with fewer commitments.

How To Save

  • Schedule your move between late fall and early spring to take advantage of lower rates.
  • Look for seasonal promotions or discounts offered by moving companies.

Do Your Own Packing

Packing takes a lot of time during a move, but doing it yourself can save you money. While you may need help with larger items, packing up smaller items yourself can save money if you are being charged by the hour by a moving company. 

Being organized and preparing in advance are key. Once you know you’re moving, begin gathering boxes and packing supplies. You can get free cardboard packing boxes from retail stores or Facebook Marketplace.

How To Save

  • Start packing well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
  • Label boxes clearly to make unpacking easier and more organized.
  • Gather free packing supplies from friends, neighbors, or local businesses.

Take Advantage of Tax Deductions

If your move is related to a new job or a business transfer, you may be able to claim moving expenses on your taxes. The Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) allows eligible taxpayers to claim certain moving costs if the move brings you at least 40 kilometers closer to your new job or business location.

Check the CRA guidelines on eligible moving expenses. Common deductible expenses include moving truck rentals, movers, temporary lodging, and even storage fees. Keep all your receipts and organize them for tax time to maximize your deductions.

How To Save

  • Keep receipts for all moving-related expenses, such as truck rentals, movers, and temporary accommodations.
  • Review CRA guidelines to ensure you claim all eligible expenses.

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