It’s best to book local movers about three months in advance to ensure your moving date is available, as most of the time, you’ll have a fairly tight window for moving your belongings. When booking your moving date, provide your moving team with as much detailed information as possible to prepare for the big day. Let your movers know an estimate of how many boxes they’ll move, any large or bulky items, number of bedrooms in your current home, the type of moving vehicle, and more.

If you’re using a moving company, the best move in date typically occurs on a weekday in the middle of the month between September and April. Mid-month moves on weekdays are less popular and therefore less costly, and the weather will usually be less severe in the fall or spring. However, if staying on budget is your priority, a mid-month move on a weekday in the winter is your best bet at finding the best deal. 

There are several effective ways to save money when hiring a moving company, primarily by handling some tasks yourself and being strategic with scheduling. Consider these methods:

• Pack Your Own Belongings: You can significantly reduce costs by packing and protecting your items yourself. This includes wrapping delicate items, organizing them into boxes, and taping the boxes closed. You can use towels, clothes, and suitcases to pack belongings and protect breakables.

• Provide Your Own Materials: Source free packing materials from friends and family, or reuse boxes and bubble wrap from a previous move.

• Schedule Strategically: Book your move well in advance. Rates are often lower if you schedule your move on a weekday during the off-season, which typically runs from October through April.

• Compare Quotes: Get moving quotes from at least three professional movers in your area. This allows you to compare services and choose the best value.

• Ask for Discounts: Inquire if the moving company offers any special coupons or deals.

• Purchase Moving Insurance: Protect your investment by purchasing moving insurance, especially for expensive or antique belongings.

• Divide the Labor: While you can save money by packing, it's wise to leave the more dangerous and physically demanding work—like loading, unloading, and moving heavy furniture—to the professionals.

While your movers focus on packing and transporting your belongings, you can focus on other parts of your move, such as preparing children and pets to move or cleaning rooms as they’re emptied. You’ll need to be onsite as your movers pack or unpack your stuff, and can help direct movers to where items should go if they need help. Additionally, if there are certain items you’d prefer to move yourself, such as valuables or sentimental items, focus on packing those things and taking them with you during your move.