Moving is the third most stressful event of a person's life—and worrying about the associated costs can add to that anxiety. That's why Harrison’s Moving & Storage offers a list of tips that can help you save money on your moving expenses.

1. Making travel plans ahead of time can save money. Use travel discounts like AAA to save on hotel rooms and be sure to take the toll-free number of the hotel with you; it saves money if you need to call while in route.

2. Avoid grocery shopping and eating out. Be creative at mealtime with what you have in your freezer and refrigerator. Begin using up the frozen foods and other perishable items you have in your kitchen. Frozen foods cannot be moved, and canned goods just add to the weight of your shipment and increase costs.

3. It is always easier to get an apartment or utility deposit back before you move. Don't forget about any of your items that are being cleaned, stored or repaired. Also, be sure to stop by your workout facility, club or bowling alley to make sure you've emptied your locker.

4. Check with clubs and organizations to see if you can sell your membership, get a partial refund, or transfer your membership to your new location.

5. Don't forget to notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) about your change of address. Each year, the post office is unable to deliver thousands of tax refund checks! One of the main reasons stated is that people don't inform the IRS of their new residence. A change of address form (Form No. 8822) is available on their Web site (www.irs.gov).

6. If your move is the result of a change in job locations or starting a new job, some of your moving expenses may be deductible on your federal income tax return. Consult the IRS or your personal tax adviser for information.

7. Save money on your moving expenses by doing the packing and unpacking yourself. Plan on a good six weeks to pack for your move. Ask your Harrison’s Sales Representative for information on do-it-yourself packing to protect your belongings. Be sure to use proper packing cartons and wrapping materials. Old boxes and masking tape are simply not strong enough to protect your items.

8. Most people move during summer, which is peak moving season. If you can be flexible, you can cut moving expenses if you are willing to move during non-peak seasons

9. The weight of your shipment impacts the cost – so lighten your load. Consider getting rid of items you no longer need and raise some quick cash in the meantime.

10. Garage sales – If you don't have a lot of items to sell, consider a joint sale with one or more neighbors. The greater the assortment of items you have to offer, the more potential customers you'll attract and the more successful the sale will be.

11. Online auctions – The Internet gives you the opportunity to showcase your items for sale to the world, not just your own neighborhood. Take extra time to properly describe your item and include a good quality photo to increase your chances of selling.

12. Secondhand stores – Sometimes selling items to a consignment shop can bring in more money than selling them at a garage sale – and it is less work for you.

13. Charity – If you donate your items to charity, remember to ask for a receipt so you can document it on your income tax return.

14. Be on the lookout for coupons, discounts and free offers from local businesses once you are settled. Don't automatically toss out what looks like junk mail during this time because you may be throwing away free money! Take advantage of savings.