Moving Expenses You Need to Consider Before Moving

No doubt moving to a new place is quite a lot of fun, however, you must understand that there is an entire process that goes into moving which involves a lot more than simply calling a moving company and packing your belongings. For starters, a lot of people seem to forget budgeting for the different types of expenses that arise when making a move depending on distance, size of move and the services that are required. However, planning for the budget beforehand can help eliminate any unnecessary surprises in the future.

In case you plan on moving soon, here are a couple of things that will require you to dig deeper into your pockets.

1. Use the Right Supplies

Most importantly, before you can start the entire process of moving, make sure you have rounded up supplies that will help ease the entire process. However, if the items are more fragile and pricey, spending on packing materials will increase automatically. Essential costs include the following:

Markers: 

To avoid any confusion once it comes down to knowing what goes where, you will need markers for the boxes.

Bubble wrap or arrowhead: 

Words can’t describe how fragile things like glassware and electronics are. You will need some form of protection for these too.

Tape: 

Finding a reputable packing tape is a must if there are boxes that need to be secured and sealed tightly.

Boxes: 

To store different types of items,specialty boxes are a must for clothes and electronics.

Packing Supplies Breakdown:

2. Seek the Services of a Moving Company 

Perhaps the most cost consuming aspect of relocating is deciding if you should hire professional movers or do it yourself. On one hand it makes things easier, and less stressful, but on the other it is costly. Some of the factors that will affect the cost of hiring movers include: 

Distance:

If you are covering a greater distance, the price will be higher. 

Size of the Move: 

It involves more belongings like furniture which requires more time, skill, and herculean effort from the movers. 

Type of Services Required: 

It could involve packing, unpacking or specialty services that could attract extra pay. 

Moving Insurance: 

This is also at an extra cost if you are able to insure your valuables during the move. 

Based on the factors mentioned above, the average cost of hiring professional movers range between $400 – $2,000, depending on what is involved. 

Moving Company Cost Estimate:

3. Fuel Expenses along with Other Transportation Cost 

If you are moving on your own and using a rental truck, fuel along with other transportation costs will be important moving expenses to consider. In case you rent a truck, the price may also vary based on the size of the truck and the distance being moved. Don’t forget the following can further add to the moving expenses: 

Truck Rental Fee: 

Expect these fees, which are generally set, along with additional costs for the amount of distance driven.

Moving on your own comes with the challenges of self moving gasoline, which can be one of the highest expenses.

When relocating over long distances, paying multiple tolls in succession can quickly add to overall transportation costs.

Transportation Costs Breakdown:

4. Temporary Accommodation Costs

If your new home isn’t ready for move-in right away, you may need to find temporary accommodations. This is a common scenario for long-distance moves. Temporary accommodation costs can include:

Hotel/Short-Term Rental: 

Depending on the area, this could range from $50 to $200 per night.
Meals: 

Eating out can quickly add up if you’re in temporary housing for an extended period.

Temporary Accommodation Estimate:

5. Storage Costs

If your new home isn’t ready or you need a place to store extra items temporarily, you may need to rent a storage unit. The cost of storage will depend on the size of the unit, the duration of the rental, and the location. Costs typically range from $50 to $300 per month.

Storage Costs Breakdown:

6. Costs Relating to Cleaning

You may be required to clean your current home before vacating it so that you can retain your deposit or leave it in an acceptable state for the succeeding occupants. Furthermore, you might opt to do the cleaning on your own instead of hiring a professional. Professional cleaning services cost between $100 and $400, depending on the size of the house and the depth of cleaning needed.

Cleaning Services Estimate:

7. Connection And Setup Utility Fees

Furthermore, the installation of other services at the new premises is often overlooked as an additional expense. These include:

Electricity: 

Customers may have to pay a deposit for service connection.

Water and sewer: 

Could require a preliminary payment for service connection.

Internet and cable: 

These also incur installation costs which differ from one provider to another.

Connection and other utilities setup cost between $50 and $200, excluding the monthly service fees.

Utility Setup Breakdown:

8. Other Costs

Additional unplanned expenses will always be present. These can consist of:

Pet Relocation:

Move-related transportation or boarding costs for pets can incur expenses.

Newly Acquired Household Items: 

After a move, you may find a need to shop for new or additional goods.

Cleaning Supplies: 

You may have to purchase additional cleaning tools appropriate for your new space. 

9. Moving Costs Final Overview

While we’ve looked at various considerations, it’s evident that there’s a combination of costs affiliated with relocating. Here’s an overview of the most common expenses that you need to think about before relocating: 

Conclusion

There are multiple expenses to think about when planning a relocation. The cost of packing materials and hiring professional movers, along with transportation and even temporary lodging for before the move, can add up very quickly. In addition, the cost for cleaning, setting up utilities, and most importantly, the storage space required, tends to be overlooked.