How to Estimate Moving Costs

Save money: plan ahead and estimate moving costs
Moving can be full of unexpected expenses.  However, most of these costs can be planned for, and even reduced, as long as you consider and include any potential expenses in your budget while you're estimating moving costs.

Here are some things to consider when you're estimating moving costs:

What are your moving options?
The type of move you choose depends a lot on your moving budget. Your options are: full service moving, ’you pack, they drive' services, truck rental and moving in your personal vehicle.  So begin researching online, comparing prices and evaluating the moving services each company offers to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Once you find the right service for your move, make sure you determine whether taxes, fuel or insurance need to be added to your moving cost estimate.

What are you moving?
Most people have a few items with high sentimental value or that require special handling. Examples are pianos, art collections, grandfather clocks and large televisions. Make a note of these high value items so you can get a list of estimates from companies who specialize in moving them. Include these "special" items when you estimate moving costs.

Should you include auto shipping when you estimate moving costs?
If you have more vehicles than available drivers, you may have to ship it. Auto transport companies like Dependable Auto Shippers and Auto and Boat Relocation Services are a good place to start.  Include this cost when you estimate moving costs.

Estimate the "soft" moving costs.
Most people choose their personal vehicle, plane or bus. If you're driving your personal vehicle, include estimates for fuel— (total miles of trip/MPG) x fuel cost per gallon.  If you choose plane, bus, or even rail, check into ticket costs.  You'll also have to take into account your food and hotel stays along the way. Don't forget to include these "soft costs" when you estimate moving costs. 

Will you purchase packing supplies?
Whether you choose do-it-yourself or full service moving, you'll likely pay for moving supplies. The difference is whether they're included in your cost or you purchase them separately. Make sure to ask. If they're not included, find out the price to expect if you need to order them on your own or if you need more than the amount included in your cost.

Do you need moving labor?
Labor is free if you do it yourself, but if you hire someone else to do it, it costs money.  Most movers already include this cost in their price, but it never hurts to double check.  If you're driving a rental truck or using a "you pack, they drive" service, you'll want to find out what an experienced loading crew would cost.  Make sure to check out reviews for any labor help you receive estimates from.

What are your closing costs?
Most of these costs can be obtained from your realtor.  Costs outside of the actual selling of your home can include cleaning and repair.  Find out how much of your deposit you can get back if you've been renting.

Do you have opening costs?
Much like closing costs, many of these can be obtained from your realtor.  Other costs can include setting up utilities, cleaning, repairs, and stocking your refrigerator.  You might also have a deposit, if renting.  Plan what your costs will be so that you are not caught off guard.

When you're on a budget, estimating your moving costs as close to accurate as possible is a big deal. I think you'll find that taking all of these potential expenses into consideration is helpful for saving money and staying on track.

Let us know if you have additional questions about what goes into estimating your moving costs!