Relocating For Work? 4 Tips For Saving Money On Your Cross-Country Move

18 September 2018
 Categories: , Blog

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Whether you are joining a completely new company or you are starting a new position within your same company, relocating for work can be an overwhelming process. Not only will you need to pack up and move your current home, but you will also need to prepare your family and yourself for this new location and new position. Fortunately, moving to an entirely new part of the country for your job does not have to be physically, emotionally, AND financially stressful. Here are a few tips to make your cross-country move for work more affordable.

Ask for Company Assistance

One of the best ways to make your relocation more affordable is to ask your company for assistance. Today, many employers have programs in place to offer relocation assistance. In some cases, the company will pay for all of your moving expenses, while some policies will offer to pay for a portion of your relocation costs.

Consider negotiating with your employer before taking a position. If they want to hire you, they may offer to pay the money up front. If you have already accepted the position, contact the HR department within the company to determine if there is a relocation assistance program that they offer new employees.

Relocate at the Right Time

Even if your company offers to pay for your relocation, moving at the right time can make the process more affordable.

Most people will move during the summer season because the weather is better, houses are easier to sell, and students are out of school. Because the period of time between May and September is peak moving season, moving companies are busier. Since they are busier, hiring them will be more difficult. In addition, hiring movers during peak moving season will be more expensive.

Most experts believe the time between October and April is best to move in because movers are not so busy, meaning you will be able to book the professionals at a more affordable rate. If possible, consider booking your move during the week instead of on a weekend day, as well.

Use Free Packing Supplies

Packing your belongings is one of the most challenging parts of moving because you need containers to not only hold your items, but also store them safely.

Many people will actually purchase boxes, bags, totes, and other packing materials to wrap their belongings. Considering the amount of belongings you have in your home is probably high, buying enough boxes and packing material can become expensive.

To save money, look for free packing materials. Ask local stores if they have any boxes they would like to donate. In many cases, stores are happy to give boxes to local people because it reduces their own waste.

You can also look locally for moving boxes others are giving away for free after their own move. Check local groups on social media and buy/sell/trade websites and apps for individuals donating free moving boxes and packing materials.

Once you are finished unpacking at your new residence, be sure to pay it forward by offering the same boxes and packing material to others for free.

Purge Unnecessary Clutter

The less you have, the less you have to pack and the less you have to move. This reduces the time and money you need to spend on packing and moving your belongings.

Consider purging your home and getting rid of items you will not want or need at your new home. Dispose of broken furniture and electronics. Donate clothing, books, and toys you will no longer need. Use this relocation as a time to redo your career and your home.

Moving to a different part of the country for a new job or position does not have to be expensive. These tips will help you relocate in the most affordable manner possible. Check out websites like https://www.wheatonworldwide.com/ for more information.