Moving house is exciting, but the costs can quickly dampen the spirit of a fresh start. Between van hire, packing supplies, and potential professional help, the bills add up fast. The good news? A tight budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on safety or sanity. With strategic planning and smart decisions, you can significantly reduce expenses while ensuring a smooth transition.
Here are 12 practical, tried-and-tested hacks to help you move on a budget, the smart way.
1. Declutter Ruthlessly (The “Less is Less” Rule)
This is the single most effective cost-saving step. The less you move, the fewer boxes you need, the smaller the van required, and the less time it takes. Go room-by-room and sort items into Keep, Sell, Donate, and Recycle piles. Be brutal—if you haven’t used it in a year, you likely don’t need it. Selling items online (e.g., Facebook Marketplace, eBay) can even generate a moving fund.
2. Source Free Moving Boxes and Packing Materials
Never buy boxes at full price first. Start scavenging early from:
- Local supermarkets (ask for banana boxes—they’re sturdy)
- Liquor stores (for small, strong boxes)
- Friends, family, or community ‘Buy Nothing’ groups
- Office recycling stations
For padding, use towels, bedding, socks, and newspapers instead of bubble wrap.
Read more about the Required Packing Materials For Move.
3. Choose Your Moving Date Strategically
If you have flexibility, avoid weekends, bank holidays, and the last/first week of the month. These are peak times for removal companies and van hires. Opting for a mid-week, mid-month move can slash quotes by 20-40%. Off-peak seasons (autumn/winter, excluding Christmas) are also cheaper than summer.
4. Get Creative with Transportation
- DIY Move: For a small flat, renting a van for a day is often the cheapest option. Compare prices from local hire companies, not just big chains.
- Man & Van Services: For medium loads, these are more affordable than full-service removals. You pack, they load, drive, and unload.
- Freight/Shared Load Services: For long-distance moves, companies like AnyVan or Shiply allow you to bid for space on a pre-scheduled lorry journey.
5. Do Your Own Packing
Packing services are convenient but costly. By packing yourself, you save substantially. Start weeks in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Label every box clearly by room and contents (e.g., “Kitchen – Pots & Pans”) to make unpacking a breeze.
6. Use What You Have for Packing
Suitcases, laundry baskets, duffel bags, and even sturdy bin bags (for soft items like clothes and bedding) are perfect substitutes for boxes. Not only is this free, but it also makes loading the van more efficient due to odd shapes fitting together.
7. Compare Removal Quotes Like a Pro
Always get at least three written, black and white quotes. Ensure each quote is based on the same inventory list so you’re comparing like-for-like. Look beyond the price—check reviews and what’s included (insurance, materials, travel time). The cheapest quote can sometimes be a false economy.
8. Claim Moving Expenses (If Eligible)
Are you moving for a job? Check if your employer offers a relocation allowance. In some cases, certain moving expenses may be tax-deductible. Keep all receipts and consult with HR or an accountant.
9. Redirect Mail, Don’t Miss Bills
Pay the £36 for Royal Mail’s Redirection service for at least 3 months. It’s cheaper than missing an important bill or bank statement, which can lead to late fees or administrative headaches.
10. Transfer Utilities Smartly
Compare energy deals for your new home in advance. Don’t just roll over with your old provider. Schedule disconnection and reconnection for the same day to avoid paying for empty properties. Send final meter readings with time-stamped photos.
11. Enlist Help (and Return the Favour)
Friends and family can be a huge help on moving day. Be organised, provide clear instructions, and most importantly—offer pizza, drinks, and a heartfelt thank you. Having everything packed and ready before they arrive shows respect for their time.
12. Plan Your First Meal and Essentials Box
Avoid the expensive and exhausting trap of ordering takeaway on your first night in a chaotic kitchen. Pack a dedicated “Open First” box with:
- Kettle, tea/coffee, mugs
- Toilet roll, toiletries
- Phone chargers, torch, basic toolkit
- Enough plates and cutlery for everyone
- A simple, pre-planned meal (like pasta and sauce)
FAQs
Is it really cheaper to move myself?
For studio or one-bedroom moves, a DIY van rental is often the cheapest. However, for larger homes or heavy furniture, the risk of injury, damage, and multiple trips can make a professional “Man & Van” service more cost-effective overall.
How far in advance should I start planning a budget move?
Start at least 8 weeks out. This gives you ample time to declutter, source free supplies, compare quotes, and pack systematically without panic.
What’s the one thing I shouldn’t skimp on?
Whether it’s the removals company’s policy or extra cover for a rented van, ensure your possessions are protected against damage or loss. Cutting this corner could be devastating.
Are there any hidden costs I should budget for?
Yes. Common hidden costs include parking permits for the removal van, toll roads during transit, storage fees if there’s a gap between moves, and the cost of new household essentials (like curtains or light bulbs) for your new place.
Can I save money by moving during the week?
Absolutely. Weekdays (Monday-Thursday) are typically 30-50% cheaper for hiring professional movers and vans, as demand is lower than on weekends.
Conclusion
Moving on a budget is less about sacrificing quality and more about investing your time, effort, and creativity into the process. By starting early, decluttering decisively, sourcing materials for free, and choosing your services wisely, you can transform an expensive ordeal into an affordable, manageable project. Remember, the goal is to start your new chapter on solid ground—not buried in unnecessary debt. With these 12 smart hacks, you can cut costs confidently, without cutting corners on the safety of your belongings or your own peace of mind.
