Moving and relocation can be an expensive undertaking. The cost can range from $1,200 to $6,000, contingent on the distance to your new abode and whether you choose to move your belongings yourself or engage a moving company. While you may have allocated funds for this event, unforeseen expenses may arise and inflate your total cost. Additional charges from the moving company, unresolved issues left behind, or complications encountered upon arrival at your destination can all deplete your budget. To avoid being caught off guard, peruse our catalog of covert expenses associated with moving.
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Storing Your Belongings
Relocating all of your possessions is a significant undertaking. In the event that the finalization of your new domicile is postponed, and you are unable to move in on the predetermined date, you will need to secure a temporary storage facility for your belongings. Typically, this necessitates the renting of a storage unit, which can cost between $80 to $150 per month.
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Elevator Fees
If your new home is located on the top floor of a high-rise apartment building, you should be prepared to pay an extra fee for the use of the building’s elevators during your move. This additional fee is usually a fixed amount, and can range from $50 to $100 depending on the specific moving company you choose.
Utility Deposits
During the flurry and fervor of relocating to a novel abode, it is simple to overlook the fact that numerous utility providers demand a deposit upon moving in. These deposits can range from $150 to $400, hence it is prudent to contact your novel utility provider beforehand and inquire about the requisite deposit amount. This enables you to factor it into your budget beforehand.
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Parking Tickets
When moving, it’s important to make sure that the moving truck has a legal parking spot. If the movers have to park illegally, they may receive a parking ticket, which you will have to pay for. To avoid this, you can obtain a parking permit from the City Offices in your new community a week or two in advance if you think there won’t be a place for the moving truck to park. This will help ensure that your move goes smoothly and that you don’t get hit with unexpected expenses.
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Forgetting to Discontinue Services
It is crucial to notify your former utility provider of the precise date on which you will be vacating your domicile. This ensures that you receive your deposit back and avoids charges for services you are not utilizing. Additionally, it is imperative to coordinate the cancellation of cable and internet services at minimum 30 days before departing from your current abode. If neglected, you may be burdened with the expense of the novel resident’s television and internet usage.
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Forgetting About Memberships
Numerous gym, country club, and spa memberships have automatic rollover features that continue from one month to the next if cancellation is not initiated. This may catch you off guard when an unanticipated amount appears on your credit card statement. If you are relocating out of the region, it is vital to cancel your memberships. Nevertheless, it is imperative to acknowledge that early termination fees may be imposed.
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Hiring a Scam Mover
There are dishonest moving companies that can deceive and exploit you. The American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) warns that a fake moving company will have a website that looks professional and will give you an extremely low quote when you contact them to move your belongings. However, when the time comes, they will load your belongings and disappear with them. The cost of replacing your belongings could be much higher than you expected.
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Heavy Item Surcharges
When using a moving company, it’s important to note that certain heavy or bulky items such as grand pianos or ATVs may incur an additional charge, separate from the basic moving fee. This is because these items require special equipment and handling, and the company may need to use a specialized truck to transport them. Be sure to discuss any heavy or cumbersome items with the moving company ahead of time so you can be aware of any extra fees and plan accordingly.
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Lost Security Deposit
When renting a house or apartment, it’s common to pay a security deposit upon moving in. If you’ve followed the lease terms, you can expect to get your deposit back once you move out. Be sure to notify your landlord in advance, usually at least 30 days, so that they have ample time to find new tenants. And don’t forget to leave the place in the same condition it was in when you first arrived, to increase your chances of receiving your deposit in full.
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DIY Disasters
Renting a moving truck or trailer and driving it yourself to your new address can be a cost-effective option, but it comes with a risk. Unlike hiring a professional moving company, you won’t have any insurance coverage for items that get accidentally damaged. So, if you accidentally break a valuable item, such as Aunt Mary’s treasured vase, you won’t receive any compensation for your loss.
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Fuel Expense
When you hire a professional moving company, it’s important to be aware that the quote they give you may not include fuel expenses. This is because fuel prices can vary and the movers may not know the exact cost until the trip is completed. To avoid any surprises, make sure to ask about fuel charges upfront and read the contract carefully. Additionally, some moving companies offer the option to share the moving truck with another family, which can help split the cost of fuel and save you money.
Under-Insured Possessions
It is important to keep in mind that accidents can occur during the moving process, which could result in damage to your belongings. While a reputable moving company will offer basic insurance to cover damages, it may not be enough to cover the replacement cost of high-priced items such as big-screen TVs or electronics. Therefore, it may be worth considering purchasing additional insurance to ensure that you are adequately covered in the event of damage to your belongings.
Packing Supplies
If you are moving yourself, it is important to remember that you will need to purchase packing supplies. Most professional moving companies provide packing services, but if you are doing it yourself, you will need to budget for the cost of supplies. A moving kit, which typically includes 50-60 boxes and tape, is usually priced between $150 to $200. Additionally, if you need to pack fragile items such as china or glassware, a kitchen moving kit that provides extra protection can cost an additional $100.
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Pets
While packing and loading your belongings, pets can become a hindrance or even escape, so you might want to consider boarding them during this time. The cost of boarding your pets will depend on the boarding kennel you choose and can average around $20 to $40 per day. If you do choose to board your pet, make sure that they are up to date on all their vaccinations, which could cost an additional $30 to $55, depending on the required vaccines.
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Specialized Movers
If you have an extensive collection of valuable art pieces, you might need to hire a specialized moving company that deals with artwork, as regular movers may not want to handle fragile and expensive sculptures and paintings. These companies have experience in properly packing and transporting such items, but the cost can be significant, ranging from $1500 to $5000. However, it ensures that your cherished pieces will be given the utmost care and attention during the move.
Overnight Fees
If the moving company you hired is unable to unload your possessions on the day they planned to do so (due to certain neighborhood restrictions or unforeseen circumstances), you may end up paying an additional overnight fee. The company will instruct the driver to keep your possessions locked safely in the truck overnight, and you could pay up to $300 more for the change of plans.
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Unexpected Hotel Stay
After your moving truck unloads all your possessions into your new home, you may not be ready to set up your bed or prepare meals for your family right away. It can be uncomfortable to sleep on the floor, and after a long trip, you may want to stay in a hotel overnight. It’s a good idea to budget for at least one night in a hotel upon your arrival at your new home.
Hire The Best Moving Company
Think through your about you Austin moving company and its moving plan carefully and make sure to stick to your budget to avoid overspending.
