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Tips to Save Money When Moving

By · Updated June 22, 2026
Tips to Save Money When Moving

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Moving home is a stressful experience. And to add to that, it is expensive. Getting all your belongings moved from your old home to the new one will involve lots of cash, especially when moving long-distance or from one island to another. Having these two challenges, a lot of people who are planning to move are looking for the cheapest way to do it. 

If you are moving and are on a tight budget, the following tips will help you save on your upcoming move.

1. Find the best time to move

The date you choose for your move has a big impact on the cost of your relocation. If you are flexible with your moving date, avoid moving during peak season, whether you are hiring a moving company, or renting a truck for your move. 

Moving during the weekdays is generally cheaper than moving on a weekend, so if you can, schedule your move on a weekday. Moving during the summer is much more expensive too so avoid scheduling your move during the summer season.

2. Sell stuff you don’t need

Selling some of your stuff is a great way to earn extra dollars that you can use for moving expenses. But not only do you earn money, but also get rid of the stuff you don’t need to bring to your new home. If you are able to reduce your stuff, there will be less to pack and unpack. You also get to save a lot of space on a moving truck, so you won’t have to rent a big one, which can help you save you money.

Sort your stuff and identify those that are essential to you and those that aren’t. Host a garage sale for that stuff you won’t need in your new home. You can also post the stuff you are selling online.

3. Look for free moving boxes and supplies

Moving boxes and supplies are essential when moving but you actually don’t need to buy all of them when there are sources you can get it from for free. Using free moving boxes and supplies is proven to cut down expenses when moving.

Ask friends and neighbours who just recently moved if they have moving boxes or supplies they no longer need. You can source moving boxes from local businesses like liquor stores, bookstores, or grocery stores too. You can also use your bags, suitcases, baskets, buckets or drawers as moving containers. For cushioning materials, you can use clothing materials like towels, blankets, bedsheets, t-shirts and socks as alternatives.

4. Go for DIY packing

Packing is an arduous task, but doing it yourself will make you save a lot of money when moving. If you don’t have any items that require professional packing service, like a piano or antique furniture, then it is the best option for you. Start packing your items at least a month in advance, to avoid cramming and last-minute stress. You can start packing items that you least needed every week towards your moving date.

5. Have your company pay for the move

If you are moving because of work, then the company you are working for might be willing to pay for your relocation, if not all of it, they might cover part of the moving expenses. Some of the companies do this, so at least try to explore this option.

If your company is willing to pay for it, make sure to keep the receipts of your moving expenses. You will need that for the reimbursement process.

6. See if you can use any discounts

Do your research and see if any moving companies are offering any deals or discounts. Some moving companies will offer these, especially during the off-peak season so they can get more jobs to not keep their trucks or trailers vacant on their parking lots. You can also look for movers that are Work and Income suppliers and ask them to provide you with a Winz quote.

7. Ask for help from friends and family

One of the best ways to save money when moving is by asking for help from friends and family. But of course, you will have to work around their schedule. But if the schedule will allow them to help you, having more hands for loading and unloading your stuff can definitely lessen your expenses on hiring moving labour.

Hiring professional movers? 

You would think hiring home movers is more expensive than doing the move yourself. That is not always correct. Sometimes, hiring a moving company to help you with the move is the cheap and easiest way to do it. If you do consider hiring professional movers, make sure to do your research. Gather at least three quotes and check the moving companies' reviews from previous customers. And don’t be shy to negotiate with the movers. Most movers will be happy to find ways for you to have a cheaper price for your home move.

If you need professional movers to move your belongings to or from your storage unit, Wise Move is ready to hBook the best movers in New Zealand with Wise Move for trusted, affordable, and professional moving support. Whether you need Auckland movers, Wellington movers, Christchurch movers, home movers, or furniture movers, our moving teams are ready to help with packing, lifting, transport, and delivery, making your move simple and stress-free from start to finish.

moving companies services at low-cost

(All Covered. No Hassle.) Budget-friendly moving service trusted by thousands of customers across NZ. Door to Door delivery. Same Day service.
What are you moving?
Newshub Stuff SCOOP Yahoo!

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