If you’re planning a household move, it’s common to wonder how much it will cost. Costs vary depending on the distance and size of the load.
Before setting a moving budget, you must include everything you’ll need. Here are factors to keep in mind as you research.
1. Estimate Size and Weight
Before you start requesting estimates for a move, you need to figure out how much stuff you plan to bring with you. To get a rough guess, you can estimate the average load on the number of bedrooms or the square footage of your existing home.
Keep in mind that online averages could vary significantly from the actual weight of your moving load. So if you have a lot of heavy furniture or more belongings than most people, you may need to budget more.
2. Research Packing Supplies
If you plan to pack your belongings, you should factor in the cost of packing supplies. Boxes and other packing equipment can cost hundreds of dollars, depending on the size of your home. You should plan to buy the following:
- Boxes
- Packing tape
- Packing paper or bubble wrap
- Labels
- Markers
Calculating the number of boxes needed for your square footage or home type should be pretty straightforward. However, remember that you may use a different combination of sizes than what comes with an average recommendation.
3. Thin Out Belongings
You may not be able to change the distance of the move, but you can certainly affect the weight of the load. For example, you will probably pay less if you bring fewer items.
Go through each room. Remove anything that you don’t use or that doesn’t make sense to have in your new home.
If you’re looking to save money, try to make the decluttering process as effective as possible. For example, finding a new home for old furniture is more efficient than thinning out a junk drawer.
4. Request Estimates
Once you have specific details about your move’s size and weight, you can request estimates from moving companies. Again, getting quotes from more than one company is a good idea, particularly if your move is happening in the next month or two.
When you review the moving quotes, be sure to ask about any aspects of the estimate you need help understanding. Remember that the best moving company for the job may have a higher bid.
5. Leave a Cushion for Additional Expenses
Even if you do your research and get an accurate estimate from the moving company, you may need to spend more money. In the last week or two before the move, it’s common to make several trips to the store for more boxes or tape. The last thing you want to do is worry about how you will pay for it.
Build in a cushion of 10% over the original budget. That way, if you need to make a few extra purchases, you’ll have some flexibility.
Let the Pros Help Out
Setting a moving budget is easier when you get a reliable estimate from an experienced professional moving company. For more information about your options for your next move, request a quote today!