How Much Does it Cost to Move?

As you consider a move, you may be asking yourself how much moving costs. According to one estimate, costs tend to range from $1,500 to $15,000.

It's wise to plan ahead for the costs associated with a move, so the price tag doesn't surprise you during an already hectic time.

Here are some factors to consider as you figure out how much to plan on spending.

How Much Will You Do Yourself?

One of the major costs associated with moving is hiring movers. Figuring out how much moving costs requires deciding how much you can do yourself, or with the help of friends and family, and how much help you will need from hired professionals.

Professional movers offer a range of services, from full service moving packages that include packing, transport, and unpacking to hourly help that is limited to moving heavy furniture and appliances.

There are many companies that will rent a moving truck to you, or services that will drive the truck for you. You can also consider an alternative to a moving truck, like PODS or U-Pack, which are containers that are packed at one location and then dropped off at the next location at a later date. This type of service is often associated with a lower cost, but also generally means a longer timeline.

You also need to consider the cleaning of the new and old homes. Will you hire professional cleaners or do it yourself?

Cross Town or Cross Country?

The average cost of moving is nearly impossible to calculate because of the long list of varying details. The distance of your move is one of the biggest factors to determine how much moving costs.

A move across town will cost less in fuel, which directly translates to your moving truck costs and the expense of hiring professional movers.

Food

Something many people don't factor in is the costs of food during the moving day or week. You may want to plan to eat out for a few days during the packing, moving, and unpacking process.

Consider whether your refrigerator and other appliances will be set up for food storage and cooking, how much time and energy you will have to prepare meals, and whether your dishes and cookware will be packed away or readily available.

Time

You may have heard the phrase "time is money," but when you figure out how much moving costs it can sometimes be taken literally.

If you hire professional movers or a storage transport option like PODS or U-Pack, you will likely be without your belongings for some period of time.

There are a few ways to navigate this inconvenience. Staying at a hotel and eating out until your possessions are delivered and unpacked is probably the most convenient, and most expensive, option.

If you're looking for ways to save money, consider keeping some bare necessities out of the storage containers or moving truck to bridge the gap until your things arrive. This might include air mattresses, a few changes of clothes, and simple necessities.

Moving During the Off-Season

Did you know there is an off-season for moving? You've already seen that figuring out how much moving costs is more complex than plugging numbers into a simple formula. Another factor in the equation is the time of year you are moving.

If you have the flexibility to choose, moving in the off-season can save you lots of money. Peak moving season is May through September. Most people prefer to move when the weather is warm, there are not winter road conditions to worry about, and school is out to make the transition for young families simpler.

If moving from October to April is an option for you, you may benefit from lower moving costs.

If you're ready to relocate or considering a move in the future, contact us to find out how we can help!