People often misjudge the costs associated with moving because they don’t look at all the expenses involved. Costs can include hiring professional Denver movers, pet daycare, babysitters, and, if necessary, the time off from work to move your household. Here are a few cost savings tips and tricks for moving on a budget.

Budget Tip #1: Have a Garage Sale

Garage sales are a great way to get rid of unwanted items, clean house, and earn a little pocket cash on the side. Since you’ll be planning for your move well ahead of the big moving date, it’s easy to price out garage sale items as you sort through unwanted items at the same time. Plan your garage sale when the weather will be optimal and advertise your garage sale or unwanted items on sites like Craigslist. You’ll be happily surprised at how quickly your things will sell! For items that aren’t saleable, but you’d rather not throw out, try freecycle.com.

Budget Tip #2: Sell to Consignment Stores

Consignment shops may bring more revenue than what you would make from a garage sale. There are many consignment stores that take gently used furniture and clothing. Visit a few before moving to compare where you can get the most for your household items. Make sure to ask about how they price and markup items. Another good question to ask is how many days they list items at full price before discounting as this will affect the amount of cash you receive. Lastly, be sure you understand how they pay out to their consigners. This can vary a great deal from shop to shop.

Budget Tip #3: Get Your Security Deposits

If you are in an apartment, you may be eligible for a refund of your security deposit. Property management companies will often provide a checklist for vacating your apartment. Clean out your apartment and repair any damages to the property management company’s specifications before moving to ensure you get back your full deposit.

Budget Tip #4: Don’t Forget Your Utility Deposits

If you have diligently paid your bills on time you may be able to get your deposits back from your local gas, electric, and water provider. Make sure to ask for your deposit back before they switch your service to the new address.

Budget Tip #5: Embrace Junk Mail

Comb through your junk mail and look for coupons. You can save on moving staples like pizza, paper towels, and cleaning products. Use coupons for everything. Need an oil change? Find a coupon. Run out of dish soap? Tear out a coupon. A few dollars’ worth of savings here and there will add up to larger savings.

Use these tips and tricks to alleviate some of your moving costs. You may be tempted to look for cost savings when hiring a professional Denver mover or you may even consider the do-it-yourself approach. Save yourself the trouble and avoid potential damage to your items. It will take you longer to load and unload a truck by yourself compared to hiring a professional mover. Contact us for a quote.