When creating a budget for a move, you must first ask yourselves, what is the absolute most we can afford to pay for this move? Imagine getting the full service – professional packers coming into your home and packing everything up for you, not lifting a finger while the movers do all the work on moving day, and arriving at your new home with all your belongings unpacked and ready to live in.
That kind of easy move is not a pipe dream! It may cost more, but if you take into account all the time, effort and stress of moving by yourself, hiring a full service moving company to take care of all the details for you may just be in your best interests!
However, you don’t want all those pesky hidden costs adding up to ruin your carefully planned budget. Here are a few things you need to take into account when budgeting for your move:
Additional Insurance. Your local moving company will offer you moving insurance, but if you have any especially important or priceless belongings, like Grandma’s fine china, you may want to purchase additional insurance.
Home Repair. Are there any last minute fixes to your old home you need to make before moving?
Temporary Accommodations. Will you be moving straight into your new home, or will you be staying at a hotel for a night or two? Depending on the distance, you may need to take into account the cost of gas and meals
How much would that kind of ease be worth? Come up with a number and see if any moving companies will match it. What if you don’t need unpacking services? Will that lower the cost enough? Maybe you only need your breakables packed, and you can do the rest yourself. Will that fit your budget? If you aim high and go down from there, you may end up with the most positive moving experience you’ve ever had!
photo credit paulobear via flickr
