A moving budget is one of the key things to consider when you decide to change your house and try out living in a different place. Money is usually what stresses people out the most, but you can take the matter into your hands and draw up the most cost-efficient budget in the given circumstances which will allow you to hire a good cross country moving company and turn your move in a smooth and cost-effective process. With our fail-proof step-by-step guide, you’re bound to create a plan that will make you satisfied in the end.
Step 1 – Create an Excel Budget Template
The importance of budgeting comes to light in all relocations as they entail many costs, and some of those are more obvious than others. Still, if you want to have a clear overview of all you’re paying for, having an Excel template is the best way to go. This way, you’ll be able to control the process and see what you can add or exclude more easily than if you’re keeping it all in your head or on a piece of paper.
Step 2 – Add the Cost of Professional Movers
You can do it alone and rent a truck, but that might not be the wisest financial decision since you’ll end up paying for the rental and all the supplies and equipment the movers provide with fewer chances of success.
If you decide to hire a reputable moving company, make sure you do research and check which one has trustworthy and positive reviews. Once you choose a top-rated cross country moving company, request an in-house or video conference estimate so that their personnel could explain to you how their quote will be formed. All movers will request your household inventory list, which will determine the overall estimate. Don’t forget to ask for any additional charges you may have, such as custom crating for valuable paintings, having the movers carry your bulky items up numerous flights of stairs, and alike.
Step 3 – Include the Moving Supplies
If you plan to do the packing on your own, you need to have the necessary materials and equipment to protect all your belongings. Write down the cost of tape, packing paper, bubble wrap, moving boxes, special boxes for dishes, and markers for labeling. Once you’re done, add 5% of the overall cost to the figure because most people report spending more on these than they have initially planned. Because of this, it might be wise to arrange packing services as they cover the materials too and you’ll end up paying exactly the amount you need.
In case you’re eager to do this on your own, these strategies might help you save money mid-move:
- Go to Costco or Walmart early in the morning and ask the staff to give you boxes. They’re usually more than glad to get rid of these, and you’ll save up;
- Try to find budget-friendly alternatives to packing paper such as parchment paper or craft paper, but make sure you stash the real one as well. Your favorite items aren’t worth the risk;
- Ask your favorite local restaurant if they can spare some containers made for dishes;
- Use old clothing and towels to wrap objects that aren’t fragile or easily breakable;
- Join a social media group, and perhaps someone in your vicinity has extra materials they can give you for free.
Step 4 – Work Out Your Travel Expenses
If you’re moving long-distance, you have to take into consideration how much you’ll need for the plane ticket, bus fare, or gas. Make sure you also think about factors such as luggage if you’re going by plane or paying for your pet’s travel expenses if you have one.
Step 5 – Finish off With All You Need to Say Bye to Your Old House and Hello to the New One
The last step is to go around your old house, regardless of whether you’re selling or giving the key back to your landlord, and check whether there’s anything to be fixed or cleaned. This is crucial either way because you want to leave the best possible impression on your buyer or get your deposit back. Add in the cleaning supplies or the cost of any fixing work, and you’re all set up.
A relocating budget can be daunting, but if you think ahead and follow our master plan, you won’t be caught off guard. The golden rule is to always expect the costs to be slightly higher than you anticipated since there are so many unknown variables. But with this mindset, you’ll conquer the new place without any money-related problems or worries.