12 Proven Ways to Save Money on a Local Move
Local moves (under 100 miles) are the most common type of residential relocation. While they’re typically less expensive than long-distance moves, costs can still add up quickly. Here’s how to keep your local move affordable without cutting corners on quality.
1. Declutter Before You Pack
The less you move, the less you pay. Go room by room and sell, donate, or trash items you no longer need. Every box you eliminate saves time and money.
2. Move Mid-Week or Mid-Month
Most people move on weekends and at the end of the month. Moving companies have more availability (and often lower rates) Tuesday through Thursday and in the middle of the month.
3. Get Multiple Quotes and Compare
Never accept the first quote you receive. Submit a free service order on Extra Help Moving and let multiple FMCSA-verified movers contact you with their prices. Use our AI estimate as a benchmark.
4. Pack Yourself, Hire Labor for the Heavy Stuff
Packing services can add hundreds to your bill. Pack your own boxes and hire professional moving labor for the heavy lifting, loading, and transport.
5. Collect Free Boxes
Check local grocery stores, liquor stores, and online marketplace groups for free cardboard boxes. Ask friends and family who recently moved.
6. Use What You Already Own for Packing
Towels, blankets, t-shirts, and socks make excellent padding for fragile items. Use suitcases and laundry baskets as moving containers.
7. Label Everything
Proper labeling saves movers time (and your money). Mark each box with the room it belongs in and a brief description of contents.
8. Disassemble Furniture in Advance
Take apart beds, tables, and shelving before the movers arrive. Put all screws and hardware in labeled ziplock bags taped to the furniture.
9. Clear Pathways
Make sure hallways, doorways, and stairways are clear on moving day. The faster movers can work, the less time they’ll charge you for.
10. Move During Off-Peak Season
Winter months (November–February) typically offer the lowest moving rates. If you have flexibility, timing your move in the off-season can save 20–30%.
11. Book Early
Last-minute moves cost more. Book your movers at least 2–4 weeks in advance for the best rates and availability.
12. Use Extra Help Moving’s AI Estimate
Our free AI-calculated quote gives you a realistic price range before movers even call you. When you receive quotes, compare them to know instantly if you’re getting a fair, good, or great deal.