How Can You Save Money Moving?
Compare Movers and get at least 5 free moving quotes!
Most people don`t get multiple free moving quotes before signing a contract with a moving company. Moving company prices can vary considerably and you can save a lot of money. We recommend getting at least five free moving quotes to compare before selecting a mover. Here at 5 MOVERS we work hard to find all the ways to save you as much money as we can when you move!
Tax Deductions
Did you know that some moving expenses are tax deductible? If you`d like to claim any of the following expenses on your tax returns, read on and see if you can qualify!
-The cost of transportation or hauling from old to new residence.
-The cost of packing, crating and unpacking.
-The cost of shipping your car.
-The cost of moving the pets.
-The cost of the trip to the new residence which includes lodging but not meals.
-Take into account that these deductions should not be excessive, however can you or do you qualify for the deductions?
Taxpayers can be eligible, even if they don`t file itemized returns, as long as:
-Moving to a new residence is for the purpose of employment. It does not matter if you are an employee or self-employed.
-Moving to a new job that is at least 50 miles farther from your new residence than your previous job location.
-A full-time employee and employed within the vicinity for at least 39 weeks of the first 12 months of your occupancy of the new residence.
-A self-employed individual, who will work in the new location for at least 78 weeks during the first 24 months following your move. 39 of the weeks must be within the first 12 months.
-Moving to a foreign country, or for military service (These options fall under special limitations. Please consult a professional tax advisor about this).
Advance Preparation And A Comprehensive Inventory Will Avert Problems!
-Take down all ceiling fans prior to moving day. If you don`t, the movers will charge you for the cost of an electrician to do it.
-Be sure to purchase enough insurance to cover damages especially to valuable items. You can also transport them yourself and save the money. Movers may not pay for damages to items you have packed yourself.
-Hire a piano specialist to prepare your piano for your move. Servicing a piano will be at an additional charge if the mover does it, and there`s a greater chance of damage.
-If you have many books, pack them yourself! You can even mail them at book rates and save significantly on the cost of your move.
-Grandfather clocks should be dissembled by a clock specialist before moving day.
-Be sure the mover has a full and correct inventory your items. Check the inventory carefully and be sure everything is included.
-Check all polished table tops and antiques for any existing damage (for example nicks and scratches). Be sure to note their exact locations.
-Note the exact location of all existing damage (worn areas, pulls) to any fabric on your furniture.
-Disconnect the water and electricity to the washing machine and refrigerator and gas to the dryer and range prior to moving day. For insurance reasons the movers are not permitted to do this.
-Confirm on the inventory that all of your belongings with moveable parts are fully operational prior to the move.
Eliminate Rather than Relocate!
When you are organizing or packing your belongings for your move, use a heavy hand toward the trash can. It`s a great time to get rid of lots of junk! Let common sense be your guide and get rid of the junk!
Have a Garage Sale
If you are like most people, you have in your possession lots of things you have no use for anymore. Have a garage sale before your move! You just might raise enough money to pay your moving expenses! Remember, one man`s junk is another man`s treasure! If you don`t need it, get rid of it. A great rule of thumb is, if you haven`t used it in the last 12 months you don`t need it.
Ignore the "I Might Need It Someday" Syndrome-Don`t move the riding mower to an apartment. Get rid of the tools you will never use.
Donate to Your Favorite Charity-Itemize everything and keep every receipt. It may help you qualify for a tax deduction.
