Top 5 Ways to Save Money on Your Boston Move
Moving in Boston doesn’t have to break the bank. Between permits, parking, and the quirks of navigating the city’s historic neighborhoods, costs can add up quickly. Our Boston movers have spent nearly two decades helping Bostonians move efficiently, and we know the small changes that make a big difference. Here are the top five ways to cut costs on your next move.
1. Pick an Off-Peak Day
How much do movers cost in Boston? It depends on the date. Boston’s moving season runs hot, especially at the end of August and beginning of September, when leases flip citywide. Saturdays, Sundays, and the first and last days of the month are also high-demand, which means higher prices and tighter availability. September 1st, also known as “Allston Christmas” is the busiest and most expensive day of the year
If you can, book a weekday move in the middle of the month. Movers are less in demand, which often translates to lower hourly rates and more flexibility on scheduling. Even shifting your move by a day or two can help you avoid peak pricing.
2. Take Apart Furniture Yourself (If Possible)
Disassembly is one of those time-consuming tasks that can quietly extend the clock. Movers are happy to handle it, but if you break down your bed frame, remove table legs, or disassemble modular furniture before move day, you’ll save both time and money.
Just be sure to keep all the hardware (screws, bolts, brackets) in a clearly labeled bag taped to the furniture. That way, when it’s time to set everything back up, you won’t be left scrambling for missing parts.
3. Be Well Packed and Ready to Go
Every extra minute spent packing on moving day adds to your final bill. The best way to keep costs down is to have everything sealed in boxes, clearly labeled, and staged near the door before the crew arrives.
Use sturdy boxes that stack easily.
Avoid overstuffing bags with heavy items (books in particular).
Label boxes by room for a smoother unloading process.
Being fully prepared means the movers can get straight to work, shaving hours off the total.
4. Make Sure the Truck Has Somewhere to Park
Boston’s narrow streets, limited parking, and resident-only restrictions can complicate any move. If your Boston movers have to circle the block or carry furniture from far away, that’s time and labor that increases your costs.
Here’s how to prevent that:
Reserve a loading dock if your building has one.
Apply for official Boston moving permits through City Hall so your truck has a reserved spot out front.
Communicate with your landlord, neighbors, or property manager ahead of time.
A legal, convenient parking space can mean hundreds saved in both time and potential tickets.
5. Have a Plan for Where Everything Goes in Your New Place
Wandering around the new apartment deciding where the couch should go burns valuable clock time. Before move day, sketch a simple floor plan or make a list of where you want big pieces placed.
Tell the movers clearly: “bedroom for this dresser,” “living room for this sofa,” “kitchen corner for this table.” Even sticking Post-It notes on furniture with its destination room can save back-and-forth time.
The more organized your layout plan, the faster your movers can unload—and the lower your bill.