Moving house is one of life’s biggest transitions, exciting, yes, but also expensive. Between estate agent fees, deposits, packing materials and transport, the costs can mount up faster than you expect. The good news? With some careful planning and a few savvy tricks, it’s entirely possible to move home without draining your savings.
Here are our top tips for moving house on a budget, from decluttering before the big day to finding the best deals on removals.
Start Early and Plan Ahead
The earlier you begin organising your move, the better chance you have of keeping costs down. Last-minute arrangements often lead to higher prices, especially for moving services that get booked up quickly during peak periods.
Create a moving checklist at least six to eight weeks before your move. Include tasks like notifying utility companies, sorting your belongings, booking a removal van, and arranging childcare or pet care for moving day. Having a clear timeline helps prevent unexpected expenses and reduces stress.
Declutter Before You Pack
Every extra box adds time and money to your move — whether you’re paying by the hour or by the van load. Before you start packing, take the opportunity to declutter your home.
Go room by room and be honest with yourself about what you truly need. Sell unwanted items online through sites like Facebook Marketplace, Vinted, or eBay, and donate anything else to charity. Not only will you make some extra cash, but you’ll also reduce your packing workload and moving costs.
Source Free or Cheap Packing Materials
It’s easy to overspend on packing supplies, but you don’t have to. There are plenty of ways to find free or low-cost moving boxes and materials:
- Ask local supermarkets, shops, or offices for spare boxes, they often have plenty they’re happy to give away.
- Use towels, bedding, and clothing as padding for fragile items instead of buying bubble wrap.
- Reuse old suitcases, storage boxes, or bins for packing non-fragile items.
If you do need to buy boxes, look for bulk deals online or from local removal companies that sell them at a lower cost.
Compare Removal Quotes
One of the biggest moving expenses is transportation but not all removal services cost the same. Always get multiple quotes before deciding who to hire.
When comparing, don’t just look at the price tag; check what’s included. Some companies may offer additional services such as packing, furniture disassembly, or temporary storage. If you’re flexible with your moving date, you might save even more by booking midweek or outside of busy periods.
A professional removal service can actually help you save money in the long run by completing the job efficiently and safely preventing potential damage to your belongings or property.
Move During Off-Peak Times
Timing can make a huge difference. Moving on weekends, at the end of the month, or during summer often comes at a premium due to high demand.
If possible, schedule your move for a weekday or mid-month. Not only are removal rates often cheaper, but you’ll also have better availability for your chosen date.
The same applies to hiring vans or booking storage units, off-peak times can mean significant savings.
Pack Smart and Label Everything
Packing efficiently saves time (and time is money when you’re paying movers by the hour). Use a logical system when packing your boxes group items by room and label each box clearly with its contents and destination.
This makes unloading and unpacking far quicker and easier, meaning less time spent on the clock for your moving team. It also reduces the risk of lost or damaged items during the move.
Enlist Help from Friends and Family
If you’re really trying to cut costs, consider asking friends or relatives to lend a hand. A few extra pairs of hands can make packing and lifting much easier.
That said, for large furniture or long-distance moves, it’s best to leave the heavy lifting to professionals. Injuries or damaged belongings can end up costing far more than hiring experts in the first place.
Don’t Forget the Hidden Costs
It’s easy to overlook smaller expenses that quickly add up, parking permits for the removal van, cleaning supplies for your old property, or temporary storage fees.
Make a detailed moving budget that includes every potential cost, no matter how minor. This helps you stay on track and avoid unpleasant surprises later on.
Save on Utilities and Services
Moving home is the perfect time to review your utility bills, broadband, and insurance providers. Use price comparison websites to find better deals and avoid paying over the odds when you switch addresses.
You may also be eligible for discounts or cash back offers when signing up for new contracts a little research can go a long way towards saving money.
Conclusion
Moving house on a budget doesn’t mean cutting corners it’s about planning smartly, comparing options and staying organised. By taking the time to prepare, declutter, and book wisely, you can make your move both cost-effective and stress-free.
Need a Reliable and Affordable Removal Service?
At Greenbox Removals we specialise in budget-friendly, professional house removals across the UK. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, our experienced team is here to make your move smooth, safe and affordable.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.
