Jump to navigation links Jump to main content Jump to footer links
How to Relocate Without Breaking the Bank

How to Relocate Without Breaking the Bank

moving boxes couple

From accepting a new job to having a new baby, major life milestones often come with a change of address. Whether you’re moving across town or to another state, getting your personal items from here to there in a reliable yet inexpensive manner is always the goal. Here’s how to relocate without breaking the bank.

1. Lighten the Load
If there are things you can sell, now is the time. Consider the cost of moving furniture you don’t need (or like) versus renting to own new furniture. The same holds true for electronics and appliances. Hold a garage sale or post your for-sale items on your trusted social sites. This is also a good time to donate items to a charitable organization and receive a possible tax deduction.

2. Pack Proficiently
The cost of boxes, bubble wrap, foam, and other types of packing materials adds up quickly. Luckily, you can find packing materials for free with minimal effort. Friends and family often have leftover moving boxes. You can also visit grocery stores for boxes. Instead of expensive bubble wrap, use household towels or pillowcases to protect fragile items. (Newspaper works, too.) You can also save on boxes by using suitcases and duffel bags for packing.

3. Think Local
If you can’t talk friends and family into helping with the furniture hauling, hire a moving company — but think local when possible. Local movers can be less expensive than national companies. Ask people you know for referrals, and always get quotes from multiple businesses before you book. If you need help identifying moving companies, check out online sources like moving.com that allow you to compare your options.

4. Ask the Right Questions
If you do need to hire a moving company, do your research so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Though the price tag for your move will largely depend on how much stuff you have and how far you’re going, there are several lesser-known moving costs. Items to inquire about include the actual size of the truck (don’t get charged for a truck that’s bigger than what you actually need), the labor involved to transport heavy items, and other potential expenditures. Make a list of questions to ask upfront so you don’t have any cost surprises later.

And good luck in your new home!

About Us

The good things in life don’t have to be out of reach. Rent-A-Center is here to make the things you want and need accessible, and Front & Center is your resource for living well on a budget.

Each week, we’ll bring you tips and tricks for infusing simplicity, style—even a little fun—into every aspect of your life and home. From decorating advice to money-saving strategies to opportunities to share with others like you, we’ll give you ideas that inspire. Live well, friends. And send your submissions, suggestions and questions for the blog to blog@rentacenter.com. For all customer service inquiries, please contact our Solution Center team at 1-800-422-8186.