Even the most organized folks can end up stretching their budget during a move. It’s vital to budget your relocation ahead of time, so your bank account doesn’t bite off more than it can chew. But with all of the moving parts inside a local or cross-country move, it’s hard to know where to start with your calculator and green-visor. Here are eight costs you should factor into your moving budget.
Auto shipping costs
The average household’s belongings often far outweigh the family car’s total storage capacity. It’s simply impossible to fit several bed frames, mattresses, and large appliances into a single family-sized sedan or SUV.
That’s why many movers opt to rent a moving vehicle. The spacious interiors of these vans and trucks allow for relatively easy hauling. But if you’re going to drive a moving van to your new home, what will happen to your car?
If you invest in auto shipping services, you won’t need to worry about it. These professional transportation solutions ensure that your vehicle makes it to your destination safely and quickly, helping to reduce moving stress and making your move that much easier.
Guardian Auto Transport, for example, is a Florida vehicle transport service provider that’s well-known for exemplary customer service, comprehensive insurance coverage options, and top-notch shipping solutions.
Entrusting your vehicle to well-reviewed industry professionals comes at an extra cost, but it’s well worth the peace of mind knowing that your car will arrive safely.
Moving vehicles and trucks
After ensuring that your vehicle’s safety and transport are squared away, you’ll likely need to begin considering moving vehicles, including vans and trucks. Depending on your household size, furniture, and other belongings, you’ll need anything from a cargo van to a twenty-six-foot truck.
As expected, most oversized vehicles incur higher costs, both in terms of rental fees and fuel expenses. Consequently, it might be financially worthwhile to simply hire a professional moving company to help you transport your things.
Professional moving services
If you’d rather not handle the hassle of packing a moving truck and driving it to your destination, you can choose to hire a professional moving company from Adelaide to do the hard work on your behalf. Some moving companies also offer packing services, which could save you even more time.
However, it’s worthwhile to note that this option is often one of the least budget-friendly ways to accomplish a successful move. Those looking to save during the moving process will naturally want to pack their own belongings and purchase their own packaging supplies. Contact Seattle movers for the best local moving experience.
Packaging supplies
Unfortunately, cardboard boxes, thick plastic bins, and seemingly endless rolls of packaging tape aren’t free of charge. But many households forget to factor in packaging supplies when planning for a move.
Local moving companies often supply boxes and bubble wrap, but you can also find these items at your local home improvement or office supply store.
You can use a packing calculator to estimate the number of boxes you’ll need, but it’s often best to overbuy. After all, it’s far better to have slightly too many boxes than to be several dozen short at the last minute.
House cleaning services
Moving your household is bound to pose several challenges, and one of them is cleanliness.
Even the tidiest homeowners often find that, upon moving, there are areas of their home that are far dirtier than others. Individuals looking to sell their current home upon moving should take extra care to repair any damage and perform a thorough cleaning.
Those moving out of rented spaces may also want to consider doing a deep clean. But investing in professional house cleaning services may be the better way to go. These services are often affordable, incredibly efficient, and highly effective, making them a valuable part of your moving budget.
Setting up the utilities
Moving into a new home often means spending a few days on an air mattress surrounded by cardboard boxes. Without proper planning and budgeting, it can also mean several days without proper utilities, including electricity.
Setting up a home’s utilities is a vital part of moving, but it’s easy to forget about when caught up in the hustle and bustle of packing, planning, and daydreaming.
Before shutting that moving truck door and hopping into the cab, be sure you’ve set up the utilities at your residential destination. Otherwise, you might be in for a rough first few nights and incur some unexpected fees.
Long-term storage costs
Those moving away for a fixed amount of time may need a place to store their furniture and belongings while they’re away. Long-term storage units are an excellent solution, but they can be somewhat expensive.
The average monthly cost for a storage unit is between about $50 and $200. Large climate-controlled units tend to be the priciest options, but they can also help keep belongings safe from mold and rot.
As such, those moving more temporarily should decide what kind of unit is best for their items and budget for these long-term storage costs.
Food and accommodation
Whether you’re driving across the country or flying halfway around the world, it’s crucial to plan for dining and lodging costs. After all, your destination might not have functional utilities, or maybe it will take you several days to get to your new home.
Either way, you’ll need somewhere safe to sleep and good food to eat. But this moving cost is one of the least-remembered.
Considering how expensive unplanned accommodation and meals can be (between about $100 and $300 per person), it’s never been more crucial to budget for these kinds of costs.
Final thoughts
Preparing for a move can be a stressful experience. But exploring all of your potential costs is a great way to avoid moving woes and stick to your budget. Breaking new ground doesn’t have to break the bank so long as you give yourself time to save.
