How to Estimate Moving Costs
Moving to a new home is often stressful and overwhelming. There are many important factors to consider and plan for, including the overall cost of moving. One way to make the process of moving a little bit more manageable and controlled is to estimate your moving costs ahead of time. This will help you feel prepared and ready.
The factors involved in moving will vary, depending on an individual or family's particular situation. A move within the same city or county is fairly simple and relatively inexpensive, whereas a cross country or international move will be more complicated, involved and costly.
- Consider hiring a moving company to help facilitate your move. If you choose to do this, talk to a representative from the moving company and ask for a cost estimate. Be sure to get a detailed breakdown of what is and is not included in the cost estimate. Be sure to add labor costs as well. Any items or services not covered by them will still be added to your overall moving costs.
- Consider the size of the trailer or truck you will need to rent, if necessary. Indicate the cost of renting this sized trailer or truck for your required number of days.
- Factor in the cost of purchasing or renting dollies, tow bars, furniture pads, packing materials and rental cars.
- Add the cost of airplane, train or bus tickets, and hotel lodging and gas, if necessary.
- Add the cost of meals during the move and a temporary storage facility, if necessary.
- Add the cost transporting other specialized items, such as pets.