Ways to Save During a Move

Well, we made it.  We didn't move far, just across town.  But, if you have moved any distance before, you know the headaches, hassles, and stress that come along with the endeavor.  Throw an active toddler in the mix, and you're just trying to cling to sanity.

Luckily, I had lots of support from my family and a husband who was not against hiring movers.  This was our first "grown up" move because we did not U-Haul it ourselves.  It was worth the price and time to have someone else do the heavy lifting.

I was determined to hold our budget together, even though money was coming in and out of our checking account pretty swiftly last week.  Deposits, moving fees, and other odds and ends stack up.  Here are a few tips I picked up that helped us stay on track during the move.

• Borrow boxes and storage bins from friends who have recently moved.  Check out Craigslist, tons of people are trying to get rid of their moving boxes.  Some charge a small amount, but I found a family with a garage full for free.  They were ready to tie them to my car roof!
• Meal Plan.  You are bound to get take-out at least once during a move, but think ahead so you don't find yourself in line at Subway for the 5th time in 2 days.  When they start to know about your love for olives, you might be in trouble.  Just keep lots of easily prepared items on hand, and you won't feel the urge to run out.  
• Keep your written budget or check roster on hand.  You might not have internet up and running right away, and you can't monitor or manage your accounts.  Have a good handle on what bills might be due, especially if you pay them exclusively online.  
• List your needs and wants.  This is such a common theme in my internal monologue, and I am still struggling with slowly making our new place a home.  For example, we need a washer & dryer, but I want a new dining set.  Like, really want.

What helped you stay on budget during a move?