Moving without putting your health or finances at risk

Moving is expensive and can set you back between $960 and $2,000 on average. All the more reason to draw up a budget to prepare yourself for the unexpected. Plus, here are a few additional tips to help you protect both your health and your bank balance.

Declutter before you move.

Moving is an opportunity to sort through your belongings. Take the time to get rid of items that you don’t need or rarely use. When you have less to move, you can save by renting a smaller moving truck. You’ll also have more room in your new home.

Make money on items you no longer want.

If you organize a garage sale or use websites such as Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace to sell things that you no longer want, the money you make can offset your moving expenses.

Why buy boxes when you can get them for free?

Another good way to avoid unnecessary spending on moving is to source your boxes from local businesses and stores. Businesses have an endless supply of sturdy cardboard boxes of all sizes that you can salvage. Why not take advantage? You’ll spare them from taking them out for recycling, too!

Don’t forget to take the pandemic into account!

COVID-19 is still part of our day-to-day lives, so you should keep it in mind. Here are a few things you might want to do to ensure your move is safe:

– Ask one specific person to make sure health measures are followed.

– Maintain physical distancing with movers at all times by avoiding being in the same room.

– Prepare as many boxes as possible before the movers arrive.

– Place small items at your entrance to limit foot traffic between rooms.

– Avoid moving into your new home while former residents are moving out.

– Wear gloves and wash your hands each time you remove them.

– Clean and disinfect the rooms in your new home, paying particular attention to high-touch surfaces (furniture, appliances, taps, sinks, etc.).

Moving on a budget.

If you look for them, there are always simple ways to protect your wallet and your health, even when it comes to moving. However, if you face financial difficulties despite your best efforts, don’t forget that our counsellors in financial recovery and licensed insolvency trustees are always here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them.