![\"Woman](\"https:\/\/www.rent.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/save_money_sasun-bughdaryan-oWrRxo9UdM4-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBest ways to save money on your move<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Let’s be honest, moving is a taxing enough experience in itself before considering the stress it can put on your wallet. Saving money during a move in 2025 often comes down to proactive planning and flexibility. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
At Rent., we recommend that you opt for mid-week or off-peak season moves and obtain estimates from at least three moving companies for comparison. Ensure each quote includes all potential costs, such as packing, transport, and unloading, to make an informed decision. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more unique recommendations, check out the tips below from experts at Public Administration Today<\/a>, a great resource that provides content for public administration professionals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Making a moving checklist<\/a> can reduce the overall cost and stress of a move, so make sure that you take time to make a moving plan. Also keep an eye out for discounts, memberships like AAA offer discounts with various moving companies, potentially saving you up to 20% on services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Moving often involves a host of rental expenses, like moving trucks and temporary housing. However, there are also fees that you should be prepared to pay. Shuvrajit, founder of Sparrowlane<\/a>, an innovator in the realm of AI-powered smart real estate investments, shares great insight on rental fees that you might have overlooked: <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cBudget for more than just the first month\u2019s rent when you move. Expect a non-refundable application fee of roughly $40\u2013$100 per adult, then either a security deposit equal to about one month\u2019s rent or a non-refundable move-in fee of $150\u2013$400 (Chicago landlords commonly charge a $300\u2013$500 move-in fee instead of a deposit). Pet owners pay extra too, about a $150\u2013$500 pet fee or deposit, plus $25\u2013$50 in monthly \u201cpet rent.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n All told, upfront costs can climb to two to three months\u2019 rent, so always ask for a written fee breakdown and check local caps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cleaning services<\/a> in 2025 are often more expensive due to rising labor costs and increased demand. The team at Cleaning Buddha<\/a> shared that \u201cIn 2025, the average cost of a professional move-out cleaning for a 2-bedroom rental ranges between $200\u2013$350, depending on condition and region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We recommend scheduling your cleaning 1\u20132 days before your final walk-through to maximize your deposit return.” Cleaning costs can come into effect not only when moving out of your old rental, but moving into your new home as well. Make sure that you allow for these costs in your moving budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reducing your belongings can lead to savings. AOA Moving Services<\/a> recommends the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tyler Baptist<\/a> suggests that \u201cIf you’re moving with kids or pets in 2025, add extra time (and patience!) to your moving plan. Planning ahead for their comfort can make a huge difference, so consider booking pet boarding for moving day and preparing a ‘first-night’ essentials kit for kids can ease the stress \u2014 and prevent unexpected last-minute expenses.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n The team at Cleaning Buddha<\/a> also advises that \u201cRenters with pets or young children deep clean quarterly, and add protective measures like washable slipcovers and scratch guards to significantly reduce wear and tear \u2014 saving you from surprise charges during move-out.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choosing between storage pods and full-service movers<\/a> is a key decision that affects cost and convenience. \u201cWhile storage pods offer flexibility, they often come with hidden delivery fees and limited loading help,\u201d advises Michael from Bayou Movers.<\/a> \u201cFull-service movers may cost more upfront, but you gain professional handling, time savings, and reduced risk of damage, especially helpful in long-distance or specialty item moves.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Educated Home Buyer Podcast<\/a> chimed in to share that \u201cPortable storage options, like PODS, offer flexibility but can still run $1,000\u2013$3,000 depending on distance. Smart movers budget extra for seasonal demand surges and prioritize locking in quotes early.\u201d In 2025, many consumers are opting for hybrid solutions, such as using moving containers or self-packing to cut down on costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n As mentioned above, moving costs in 2025 will vary based on the area in which you live and where you are planning to move. The AOA Moving Services<\/a> team notes things to consider when budgeting: <\/p>\n\n\n\n While an increase in moving costs in some regions can be attributed to several converging factors, don\u2019t let the pressure get to you. Early planning and understanding the market in which you live will go a long way in saving money and reducing stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the current political atmosphere and tariffs may cause an increase in moving costs as 2025 progresses, it\u2019s important to keep in mind that as in years past, moving during peak season means paying premium rates. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “What you should consider when planning a move is seasonality. Most families can move when kids are out of school, and therefore cost of moving can be significantly higher as mover resources are limited,\u201d shares Jitka Bedford, operations VP at LeaseRunner<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Jitka adds that \u201cMoving season heats up in May and lasts through August. We, at LeaseRunner, see up to 100% uptick in tenant screening requests during the moving season, which is also when there are more rental properties available for rent.\u201d Booking early is one of the best ways to avoid inflated prices and limited availability. Some moving companies also charge surge pricing based on real-time demand, making last-minute summer moves especially costly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tariffs (extra taxes on imported goods) and global trade tensions have seen a rise since the start of 2025 and are affecting moving costs. Shuvrajit, from Sparrowlane<\/a>, shares insight into the effect of tariffs on moving costs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhen tariffs make steel, trucks, or packing supplies cost more, movers soon raise their prices to make up the difference. Additionally, just before a new tariff starts, companies hurry to bring in goods early to beat the tariff deadline. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Many moving trucks get pulled into better-paying commercial freight, and owners naturally choose those higher-margin jobs, leaving fewer and pricier trucks for household moves. Even a short truck shortage can add hundreds of dollars to a long-distance move, so if you are planning to move, lock in a written quote early when tariff talk heats up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n While tariffs can indeed have an effect on the cost of moving trucks, they can also have an impact on other moving costs. The team at The Educated Home Buyer Podcast<\/a> adds that “While 2025 tariffs on steel and aluminum could cause minor bumps in moving and storage costs, the real budget-buster remains fuel and labor. A smart mover focuses on what’s controllable \u2014 timing, choosing flexible service providers, and avoiding peak season.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also helpful to note that the price of materials like cardboard boxes and bubble wrap has increased due to supply chain issues and import taxes on raw materials. For individuals who choose to pack themselves, this adds a layer of unexpected cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to tariffs, broad economic and political factors are also influencing moving costs this year. Tax experts at ProTitleUSA<\/a> share their take on how these factors can affect moving costs in 2025: <\/p>\n\n\n\n “The U.S. rental market is expected to see robust demand in 2025, fueled by a complex mix of economic and political dynamics reshaping housing needs across the country. As large corporations and government entities ramp up their \u201cback to office\u201d initiatives, a growing number of employees who previously worked remotely are being prompted to relocate closer to urban job centers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This shift is anticipated to inject fresh demand into metropolitan rental markets, particularly in cities that had seen declining interest during the height of the remote work trend. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Conversely, Sun Belt states like Florida, which experienced a surge in rental demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, may face a cooling-off period. As remote work becomes less prevalent and migration patterns stabilize, rental pressure in these high-growth regions is expected to ease.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Also keep in mind that political tensions and shifts in immigration or labor policies have caused labor shortages in some regions, reducing availability and driving up the cost of hiring professional movers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Staying informed of current moving trends can save you time, money, and stress when planning a move. Check out the top trends our experts have found in 2025 below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Flat-rate and transparent pricing gains popularity<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n With unpredictable costs on the rise, it\u2019s important to carefully select a moving company for the best experience.\u201d One of the most noticeable trends we\u2019ve embraced is the shift toward transparent, flat-rate pricing,\u201d advises Michael from Bayou Movers<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Michael adds that \u201cCustomers no longer want vague estimates \u2014 they want upfront clarity, itemized quotes, and no surprise charges. We\u2019ve made transparency a pillar of our service because trust begins before the first box is moved.\u201d In 2025, reputable movers are leaning into digital quote tools, virtual home assessments, and itemized contracts to make pricing more accessible and trustworthy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Rental fees to watch out for<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Cleaning costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Decluttering before the move<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.rent.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/moving-with-pets-12x8-1-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMoving with pets or children<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Storage pods vs. full-service movers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Are moving costs increasing in 2025?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPeak moving season<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Tariffs and trade: Hidden costs in moving supplies<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.rent.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/06\/Welcome-to-virginia-12x8-1-1024x575.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAdditional economic and political dynamics at play<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
2025 moving trends to watch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n