You finally pinpointed the location where you want to settle down, and now a new problem comes rushing to the forefront. How much money do I have to save to move?
There are many factors to consider when saving up and budgeting for your move. It's important that you prepare yourself and not fall victim to hidden charges you cannot pay for.
The first thing you should do is create a moving budget. We suggest creating a spreadsheet to keep track of all expenses. If a price changes, spreadsheets allow for easier editing and automatic calculations.
A spreadsheet is easy to share with -- and stay on the same page as -- anyone you are moving with.
Tie up loose ends
Before you contact movers, tie up all the loose ends at your old place.
- Change your address so you don't miss bills or important legal documents.
- Call the utility companies to inform them that you are moving out. If you don't take the utilities out of your name, you might end up paying for someone else to use them.
- Cancel your phone, internet, and television provider. This step might seem obvious, but you want to make sure you cover all bases while planning your budget.
Get estimates
The next step for your big move is to start getting estimates from moving companies. Every moving company has different rates, and each move will vary based on the weight of your furniture and the distance of the move.
It's a good practice to get estimates from at least 3 different movers, so your decision isn't limited. Don't forget to read our reviews on moving companies before you settle.
Use the most expensive estimate in your budget to ensure that you have enough money allotted. The cost of a moving company includes more than just the estimate; you'll also pay insurance and other fees.
TIP: Be sure to have some cash on hand to tip the movers. While tipping isn't required, it's nice to show appreciation. You can also offer cold refreshments. You don't want your movers getting dehydrated!
Relocate locally
If the move you are making is local, you might be able to swing not hiring a moving company. Some things that would be required are a truck or van that could haul larger items as well as some friends or family that are capable of heavy lifting. If you don't know anyone with a pick-up truck willing to help, rent a truck yourself.
TIP: Rent a truck about 10 percent bigger then what you think you'll need to be safe.
Collect supplies
Whether you're moving yourself or hiring a moving company, you'll want to provide all the following packing supplies to save money:
- Boxes
- Tape
- Cushions, moving blankets
- Thick markers
And while these supplies might not be as expensive as labor or truck rentals, they add up. Instead of adding each individual packing supply to your budget, simply add the price of a moving kit to make it easier.
Decide if you need storage
If you can't immediately move all your furniture into your new place, you might have to look into putting your belongings into storage.
The two most common ways of storing excess furniture is in a storage unit or a PODS.A standard storage unit can range from around
$75 to $250 a month depending on the size of the unit. Just make sure you pay your monthly fee so your belongings don't end up on Storage Wars!
The other popular method of storage is using a PODS unit. A PODS unit will cost you around
$100 to $200 dependent on size. The PODS company will also charge you for delivery, transit, and removal from property.
Get to your destination
After you budget out how much it's going to cost to pack and ship all your items, it's time to budget out how much it will cost for you to get to the destination during the move. This isn't always on people's minds, but food, gas and lodging adds up.
Find your price range
The cost of moving is going to be different for everyone. The main items in your moving budget are going to be the moving fees, truck rental, packing supplies and storage. Don't skimp on the necessary services and cut corners where needed.
Be sure to check out our many moving guides to allow for a painless moving experience.