Moving cheaply is an art that you can learn. After all, you don't want to pay too much for a moving company or other services, but you also don't want any hassle. We, the Moving team, are happy to help you. In this article, you will discover how to move cheaply and what it all entails. We will look at what a move costs, how to reduce moving costs and what options you have if you want to hire a moving company. You will also read whether you are entitled to compensation and how to organize your move efficiently. Grab a cup of tea, because we will dive right in.

FAST TO

Moving on a budget, how do you do that?

You may have heard that moving can be expensive. Sometimes it seems like your wallet will never be big enough to cover all the costs. However, you can move on a budget without any hassle. With a few smart choices, you can make your move feasible, even if you only have a small budget.

Compare movers. Often different moving companies offer different rates. By comparing quotes you will quickly discover where you can save.
Schedule your moving date on a quiet day. Preferably choose a weekday outside the summer months. You will often get a better rate.
Get help from your network. Maybe you know handy people who can carry stuff. That will save you the hours that a professional moving company would calculate otherwise.

Moving company costs

Are you on a tight budget? Then you might find a cheap moving company that is still reliable. Cheap moving does not mean that the quality is reduced. You mainly avoid unnecessary costs, for example by sharing one moving truck with someone else.

Asking friends and family for help

An example. Imagine you have small furniture and a few boxes. Your friends are willing to help you load and unload. If you rent a van together, it will be cheaper than hiring a full-service moving service. You pack everything yourself, load it and drive to your new address in an hour. That is the essence of cheap moving.

Preparing for a cheap move

Good preparation saves stress. It sounds cliché, but you really don't want to discover at the last minute that you have no more moving boxes. If you start on time, you can plan and arrange movers with peace of mind.

Determine budget for private removals

First, determine how much money you can afford to spend. Sometimes moving costs are higher than you think. You may also need a packing service or need to dismantle large furniture. Consider your situation.

Write down all expected costs: the rent of a moving elevator, moving costs for fuel and the hourly rate of experienced movers
See where you can save: friends can help, or you choose student movers
Set aside some extra money as an emergency buffer

Employers or the municipality sometimes reimburse part of the moving costs. Inquire about this, because you can save a lot.

Administrative preparation

Think of all the agencies you need to inform about your new home. Make a list:

Report your change of address to the municipality and your bank
Adjust your insurance and see if they cover moving
Compare energy suppliers and internet providers so you don't encounter any surprises

This way you can start your new life without having to worry too much about current contracts or fines.

Time planning & task allocation

Start packing six to eight weeks before your moving day. That may sound like a long time, but time flies. Use a checklist that you keep updating. Don't know where to start? Get our checklist via our website.

Divide the tasks. You pack the kitchen, your partner arranges the living room and friends might take care of the shed.
Start with things you don't need much. Clothes from the wrong season or Christmas items can go in the box first.
Keep your planning flexible. Something can always happen to slow things down.

Your own network – how does it help you move cheaply?

Your network is worth its weight in gold when you are moving. Asking friends and family for help is not only fun, but can also save a lot of money. Ask if they have time to pack boxes, lift furniture or even drive if you do not have a valid driver's license.

Moving your belongings safely

People you know may also have handy items lying around, such as hand trucks or tension straps. With such tools, you can move heavy objects without any problems. It saves you money if you don't have to rent them.

Moving cheaply yourself or hiring a professional moving company?

Can you swap specific jobs? Maybe your neighbor is a born carpenter and you are a whiz at computers. If you work on his computer, he will help you fix a cabinet. That way, you can get by together and you won’t have to hire professionals for every job.

Moving yourself or hiring an affordable moving company?

You may be wondering whether it is better to move yourself or hire a professional moving company. The answer depends on your budget, your time and the size of your belongings.

Advantages and disadvantages of moving yourself

Advantages
You save on working hours immediately and determine your own pace. You borrow a trailer or a van, pack your belongings and have everything transported by your own network.
Cons
The physical burden can be enormous. You are responsible for damage to your belongings. If you live in an apartment building, you may need a moving lift. This will incur additional costs.

For small private removals, moving yourself is doable. However, if you have a lot of stuff, a move can become a war of attrition.

Affordable moving company in the Netherlands

Some moves require more professionalism. Then you better choose a hire a moving company. Please note the following:

Check if the company is a certified moving company. You are well insured by default. Is it not a recognized moving company? Then it is simply important to read the conditions carefully.
Request multiple quotes. This is how you compare rates and services. Here too, cheap is not always expensive. Many cheap movers do a great job.
Please note additional services. Some companies offer disassembly, packing and storage services. Check carefully if that fits in your package and what the costs are.

Right to compensation?

Sometimes you are entitled to a relocation allowance. Various factors play a role, such as your work situation or your municipality. In the event of a company relocation, your employer can ask you for a relocation allowance. Your municipality may have a scheme for people who have to move to another home due to renovation or demolition. This does not apply to everyone. So take the time to check which rules apply to you.

Packing for a cheap move

Packing is not just filling boxes. With the right preparation you will save time and money. You will definitely need moving blankets!

Material selection and savings

Invest in good moving boxes. Messy boxes left at the supermarket look tempting, but can tear if you put a lot in them. Also see if you have suitcases and storage boxes where you can put your stuff. Don't leave anything unused. Sometimes professional movers offer discounts if you also book their packing service, but of course this will cost you more.

Move with less: minimize and sort

Ask yourself what you really use. Will that lamp still be useful in your new home, or has it been gathering dust for years? By looking critically, you prevent taking unnecessary items with you and you pay less for transport. Donate or sell what you no longer need.

Labeling and organizing your belongings

Mark each box with what is in it and where it should go. You won't lose anything and you can unpack quickly. Pack fragile items carefully, for example with towels or old newspapers. It is sometimes better to disassemble large pieces of furniture. This prevents them from not fitting through the door.

Creativity saves you a lot of money

You don’t always have to hire a big moving truck or a full-service moving service. There are many creative ways to save:

Share a truck with someone who is also moving. You divide the costs by two.
Check online platforms where people offer boxes, furniture or space. You can sometimes get free stuff that others want to get rid of.
Plan multiple short trips with a small bus if you are moving a short distance. This is often cheaper than renting a large truck.

We once heard of a customer who drove her van back and forth three times in one weekend. It sounded exhausting, but it saved her hundreds of euros because the move didn’t require a huge truck. Sometimes a little effort can save you a lot of money.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about cheap moving

1. How much time in advance should I start planning?

We recommend starting six to eight weeks before your moving date, so you have time to compare different moving companies.

2. Is moving yourself always cheaper than a moving service?

Not necessarily. You don't pay for labor hours, but a professional moving company works very efficiently. That way you lose less time.

3. How much does a move with certified movers cost?

That depends on your belongings and the distance. But feel free to ask for a custom quote or look at our website to get an idea of the rates. One thing is for sure and that is that the professionals are well trained which reduces the chance of damage. The men can often also do odd jobs in your new home! Nice bonus, right?

4. How do I avoid hidden costs in moving expenses?

Ask the moving company about all the options. A moving lift, extra fuel, parking permits: you want to know that in advance. Are you planning to move? Check this carefully.

5. Can I receive a moving allowance?

Sometimes your employer or the municipality will reimburse part of your moving costs. Inquire about this before making your final choices. If it concerns a move that has to be carried out urgently, for example, there is a good chance that you are eligible for a moving allowance. But it is wise to ask about this.

6. Can I quickly and easily compare multiple quotes?

Yes. Are you thinking about hiring a moving company? Fill in your details at Moving and you will immediately receive quotes from recognized moving companies that suit you.

Request a price indication from Moving

Do you want to know which moving service suits you? Or are you curious about the costs for low budget moving? Then you can request free quotes from us. You will receive clear proposals from different moving companies. You can see at a glance who suits you best. That saves you work and money. Calculate moving costs Contacting Moving is very easy.

Receive our checklist

If you want our checklist, feel free to visit our website. We have a compact list that will guide you through every step of your move. You will also discover tips on planning your moving day, arranging moving assistance and choosing the right materials. Our movers (the affiliated moving companies) will move your belongings to the right address at a great price. Our experienced movers make moving possible for everyone in the Netherlands. This by offering various moving services that are accessible to everyone in terms of total costs.

How to keep moving affordable

You can move cheaply by planning smartly, drawing up a budget and using your network. Request quotes in time and discover how much you can save by comparing different solutions. Use cheap movers, student movers or a recognized moving company if that is more advantageous for your situation. With a little creativity and help from friends you can save a lot. With our moving service you can now request free quotes for all kinds of moves. Think for example of an international move, private move, business relocation and even a budget moving service. This is how we offer what everyone needs. A no-obligation quote is also very easy to request from Moving! Read below how you can do this.

Please contact us for any questions

This way you will have money left for other things, such as furnishing your new home. We at Moving wish you a pleasant and affordable moving experience. Feel free to contact us if you need help or want to use our professional knowledge. Together we make moving with certified movers or on a low budget a success. Compare moving companies. We ensure that A to Z is arranged with our good service regarding free quotes. We are also happy to advise you on the moving process. We have the best experts for this. Request a free quote now so that your belongings can be transported quickly and safely.

Table: Average costs and potential savings

Element	Average cost¹	Potential savings²	Explanation
Moving van	€80 – €250 per day	Up to 25%	Compare providers and choose a weekday
Student moving service	€30 – €40 per person	Up to 15%	Perfect for smaller households
Certified moving company	€35 – €50 per person	Up to 10%	Often more efficient with professional tools
Packing service	€100 – €300	Up to 20%	Do it yourself or choose part of the service
Moving expenses allowance	–	100%³	Depending on your employer or municipality

¹ These figures provide an indication for the Netherlands
² Percentages depend on timing, offers and your negotiation skills
³ In special cases the compensation may be complete

List of important actions

Determine your budget and estimate additional costs
Request multiple quotes for your move
Make a logical time schedule, starting 6-8 weeks in advance
Report your change of address to authorities
Use your network and ask for help with carrying and packing
Compare energy and internet contracts for your new home
Label boxes carefully and protect fragile items
Check if you are entitled to compensation
Consider a certified mover if your belongings are large or valuable. Moving with a moving company is always easy.
Contact Moving for a handy checklist and free quotes to find the right and affordable moving service you need.

Finding a cheap moving company is easy with Moving!

Moving can be seen as a time-consuming task, but you can also turn it into an adventure. With the right planning and some creativity, you can keep it light for your wallet. Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us. We are ready to help you with advice, quotes and a listening ear. Moving cheaply with a professional moving company has never been easier! Good luck with your move!