How to Budget For a Move
Moving can be stressful, especially with the associated costs that can go overboard if you don’t plan well. With enough planning and budgeting, you can ensure your money isn’t wasted in the process of moving.
Creating a moving budget is the smartest way to go about it. While you are at it, certain factors must be considered to determine the final cost. Let’s go over them!
Create An Inventory List
The first step in making a moving budget is to create an inventory list with every item you are taking to the new place. You can go room by room to list the items and then categorize them based on size. This will allow you to come up with a precise estimate and help you keep organized, while proving helpful during the unpacking process.
Costs to Consider
It is advisable to do your homework on the moving costs and use your inventory list to create a moving budget template. If you plan on hiring a mover, there are certain costs to consider:
- Basic movings fees/rates
- Packing services
- Unpacking services
- Moving insurance
- Speciality item fee (pool table, pianos, safes, artwork, etc)
- Hidden costs (damages/claims, tips, etc)
Plan Additional Costs
Not to tire you out, but moving is not just about taking things from one place to another. There are always associated costs that you must make sure to consider; these include the likes of transportation, lodging, and storage. Also, ensure to budget for costs incurred by the possibility of hiring cleaning services and pet care, if needed.
Pick An Off-Peak Season
The time you pick to move plays an important role in determining the cost. Most people prefer to schedule their moving during spring and summer. Because of the rush and high demand, the movers’ costs would peak during this time.
So, if your move is flexible and you are able to schedule it ahead of time, it would pay to pick an off-peak-season time. It will cut you some slack on your budget.
Also, note that there may be a change in the cost if you are moving during a weekend v/s during the week.
Manage Your Fund
Forbes suggests that having an emergency fund can make the moving process more relaxed as you will be better prepared for unforeseen situations. Another recommendation is to multiply the total cost by at least 5% to get some wiggle room with the final price. Also, donating and selling things that aren’t necessary to take with you will help you cut down on moving expenses and get you some extra money.
As you make an accurate inventory and add to your moving budget template, you will reduce your chances of being blindsided by hidden costs.
To make sure you get professional moving services from a trusted company that stays within your budget, get in touch with Main Street Movers.
