Relocating? Costs that Come Out of Nowhere

Relocating costs can quickly rise. Aside from the cost of movers, moving requires the proper supplies which alone can cost a fortune. When planning and budgeting for your move, beware these costs that seemingly come out of nowhere.

The Cost of Supplies

Of course, you are most likely aware that moving requires boxes, bubble wrap and paper. However, the amount and the costs of these items are often underestimated. You will always need more or lager boxes than you anticipate, and boxes can be very expensive. To cut down on the costs of boxes, try collecting ones being discarded by stores. Larger, chain or box stores often crush their boxes immediately upon their unpacking and so you most likely will not have much luck gathering from these places. Try upscale strip malls, furniture stores or animal hospitals for larger, reusable boxes and stay clear of gathering boxes from restaurants as they may be greasy or smelly.

There are also several used-box stores online that will provide larger boxes and wardrobes at extremely reduced prices. Bubble wrap and paper can cost anywhere from $12 to $25.00 for a smaller roll, and unfortunately, it is extremely difficult to reuse these materials, but they may be available at discounted prices online.

The Cost of Insurance

If you are moving long-distance, you should invest in insurance for your belongings so that if they are damaged during the move you will have an outlet to recover their cost. Moving company’s liability extends only as far as the insurance you have purchased. There are three different types of insurance: declared value in which the value of your possessions is based on the weight of your shipment multiplied by a specified amount per pound, assessed value which is based on the cost of the item, and full value protection which will pay for repair or replacement. Declared value coverage is usually offered at no cost to customers. In full value protection a deductible typically applies. The lower the deductible, the more expensive the insurance will be.

Home Decorating Tools

Properly decorating your new home requires the proper tools and materials. Hammers, nails, hooks, wall anchors, screwdrivers and drills may be necessary for you to hang or otherwise display your items. While individually these items may not be expensive, when combined they can become quite expensive.

Cleaning Supplies

Chances are that you mover refused to transfer your cleaning supplies and other liquids. Unless you sneakily added them in your packing, you will need to replace these items in your new residence. Disinfecting sprays, detergent and fabric softener and other supplies are expensive, but their cost is often unavoidable. Keep in mind, too, that the supplies you used in your previous residence may not be usable in your new residence; for example, if you new residence has wood floors, you will need special cleaning solution to properly care for them. Also, you may need to replace brooms, mops, garbage bags or cans or other cleaning equipment.

Groceries

You may be surprised at the expense of your first few grocery bills after moving. The spices and condiments you tossed into the garbage before your move must be replaced, and when purchased at once with food, make for one large grocery bill. If possible, transport as many of your spices as possible, and try to cut back on your grocery expenses prior to moving to reduce the cost of this bill.

Moving is a fun experience, but it is also costly. Expenses can seemingly rise out of nowhere and before you know it your simple, cheap move has quickly spun out of control. Factor the aforementioned expenses into your moving budget so you are less surprised; your bank account and nerves will be thankful.