Make Your Move Smooth and Affordable

Over 42 million Americans (1 in 4 adults) move each year according to moving.com. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, the tips listed below can help you save money for your debt settlement plan.
 
Plan Ahead
 
Consider planning as much in advance as possible. Usually, Fridays, weekends, and holidays are popular moving days. Scheduling your move during the week, preferably the first week of the month, may save you money. Keep in mind that summer months tend to be the busiest.
 
Create A Moving Budget
 
You may want to consider where you are moving, what items you will need to move, and other factors to help you decide whether you will need to hire a moving company or if you can do the job yourself. Consider all expected costs in your budget such as truck rental, mileage/gas, insurance costs, packing fees, storage costs, etc. and leave room for the unexpected extras you may encounter. Unwanted items can be dropped off at your nearest donation center (remember you can get a tax deduction for this) or sold at a garage sale or flea market.
 
Research Moving Companies
 
If you have decided to use a moving company, compare rates. Relocation.com suggests that you do plenty of research. Be thorough! Ask the company for references or call your local consumer corporate affairs division to see if any complaints have been filed against the company you choose. Make sure the company you are researching is bonded and insured - remember, these people will be coming into your home. Inquire about all costs associated with the move, fuel surcharges, hourly fees and any 'hidden' costs like extra charges for shrink wrap, padding, etc. which can be pricey. Work with your moving company throughout the entire process.
 
Pack Smart
 
Whether you go with a moving company or move it yourself, remember that you should pack everything safely. According to money.msn.com, you should check with your city recycling center which may have boxes available at no cost.
 
In addition, consumerist.com suggests checking with hospitals, restaurants, and local retailers who may be willing to give you the boxes for free. Some moving companies charge according to the space you use so it is important to pack boxes as tightly as possible, leaving no space in each. You may want to use blankets, stuffed animals or soft items to fill empty space, creating 'cushions' for more fragile items. Consider using your bedspreads, towels, and clothing as packing material.
 
Once everything is packed, if you are not loading items on the truck yourself, it is wise to be present during the loading process. In addition, keep in mind that movers usually won't insure boxes if you pack them yourself. This is something else you might want to discuss with your mover.
 
Use Moving Expenses As A Tax Deduction
 
Visit the Internal Revenue Service's website at www.irs.gov to see if your moving expenses qualify as a tax deduction. For example, if your move to another city is due to obtaining a new job there or if you need to move due to your current employer's relocation, you may qualify for a tax break. Factors considered depend on the distance you are moving for the job and whether or not you are a full-time or part-time employee. If you do not have web access, you can contact the IRS at 800-829-3676 for more information.