Planning a move? Make a to-do list
Moving comes with a long, expensive to-do list.
The average cost for a local move from a two-bedroom apartment or three-bedroom house ranges from $400 to $1,000, according to HomeAdvisor’s True Cost Guide. While you’re choosing a place to live and deciding what to pack, having a plan for expenses can ensure your budget doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
“It’s very easy to overlook minor details because when you’re moving, you’re looking at getting your stuff from point A to point B,” says Jessica Nichols, a director at Avail Move Management, a relocation and transportation service in Evansville, Ind.
Preparing for moving costs can help alleviate emotional and financial strain. Consider these less-obvious expenses. 1. PEAK SURCHARGES Many moving and truck rental companies raise rates
during busy times like summer and weekends. If you have the flexibility, move in an off-peak period. 2. PACKING MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
Buying items such as boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape adds up. For example, U-Haul sells large moving boxes for $1.63 to $1.99 each, depending on how many you buy. Be realistic about the number you need. Or seek free materials from friends or online.
Additionally, consider the items you’ll need to safely transport your belongings, including furniture covers, hand trucks and bungee cords. If your movers don’t provide them, or you aren’t hiring professionals, renting or borrowing is cheaper than buying. 3. EXCESS CARGO
The more you schlep, the more you’ll pay. Movers usually factor the number and weight of items into the bill. Expect additional fees for
valuable or large items.
Hauling everything yourself? A bigger load can require a larger vehicle or more gas-guzzling trips. To save money, throw away, donate or sell what you can before you move. 4. CLEANING
You’ll likely need to tidy up your current place, especially if there’s a security deposit at stake.
Housecleaning services typically charge $200 to $300 for a one-time cleaning, according to HomeAdvisor. You’ll save by doing some or all of the work yourself. 5. UTILITIES
Watch for deposits, taxes, and connection and installation fees when setting up utilities at your new address. These could range from $10 to $200 or more. Ask power, Internet and other service providers about charges in advance. 6. FOOD Food expenses can pop up, too. Think snacks for the
road, restocking the refrigerator and pantry, and feeding friends who’ve helped. Shopping wholesale clubs could be a smart strategy to feed a crowd. 7. LOST OR DAMAGED ITEM
Some belongings might not survive the journey. Depending on what you’re transporting and how far, it could be worth buying protection to repair or replace property.
“Nobody wants to think about their items getting broken. Ideally that would never happen, but in the real world that’s something you need to plan for,” Nichols says.
Most movers provide basic valuation coverage, which limits their liability to 60 cents per pound, per item. For a 40-pound TV valued at $500, that’s $24. Top-tier options and separate insurance plans offer higher or full values, but it will cost extra. If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you likely have some coverage. Check your policy.