One of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make when moving to a new home is whether to hire a moving company or do all the work yourself. When making this decision, make sure you dig a little deeper to find the true cost. Be thorough in your research, and you’ll not only make the right decision, but you’re also likely to save a little money in the process.
Moving Companies
Choosing to use professional movers can facilitate a much smoother and faster relocation, but that convenience comes at a cost. On top of the company’s estimate, there are a number of possible surcharges that can quickly add up:
- Stairs: multistory homes, high floor apartments without elevators
- Disconnect fees: home appliance disconnection and reconnection
- Specialty items: pianos, grandfather clocks, pool table
- Packing materials: boxes, tape, shrink wrap, bubble wrap, package fillers
- Shuttle trucks: limited access by the main truck because of narrow alleys or low wires
- Long carries: walking distance from moving truck to front door past a certain threshold
Be sure you know what’s included in the base rate and what’s extra before entering into an agreement with a moving company. If you decide to save money by moving yourself, make sure you consider all of the extra expenses you’ll have to pay as well. Fuel costs are the obvious expense, but meals and lodging start to add up on long distance moves. If you’re recruiting the assistance of friends, expect to pay for their meals and beverages throughout the move.
Proper Storage
If you’re going to need storage space during or after your move, be sure that items are packaged well and stored in a secure self storage facility. These self storage resources will help you pack and store everything correctly to prevent costly damage.
Climate controlled self storage units are important when storing furniture, appliances, or other items susceptible to environmental damage. The cost is well worth it when the alternative means replacing your damaged or destroyed possessions.
New Environment
Even after the move is complete, long-distance relocation to a new state or climate can bring about a number of other potential expenses:
- Higher cost of living
- Increased auto insurance premiums
- Travel expenses to visit friends or family
- Drivers license, title and registration fees
- Higher sales, income, and property tax rates
- Costs to maintain your old house if it’s on the market
- More spent on home or car maintenance in extreme climates
Be sure to stay current with your bills and take advantage of online account access so no payments are missed because mail wasn’t forwarded. Many of the expenses involved with moving yourself and your possessions are unavoidable, but they still need to be understood to avoid sticker shock.
Read more storage tips from The Lock Up. If you’re ready to store items for an upcoming move, look for a climate-controlled Lock Up self storage facility near you.
