Video: Smooth Moves Take Advance Planning

Besides closing costs, what expenses do I need to plan for when buying or selling my home?

In the excitement of moving to a new home, don’t forget to budget for the little hidden moving expenses… they add up. Not all moving costs are as obvious as renting a truck or employing a moving van.

Moving Supplies – If you’re moving yourself you’ll likely encounter the Ah-Ha moment of the boxes. There are never enough, the contents need to be well cushioned and the exterior secured. Moving supplies do not come cheap so be sure to budget for them.

It might seem obvious but is often overlooked, you’ll need to allocate funds for gas in any vehicle you’re using for your move.
And equipment rental for things like dollies, padding blankets and furniture tie-down straps could be an additional charge if you’re renting a self-drive truck.

Moving Insurance – If you’re hiring a mover their guarantee is generally spotty at best. You’ll be encouraged and indeed, wise to purchase moving insurance. The cost will depend on the bulk of the shipment and value of belongings.

Note: Be aware when you hire a mover that a cancellation fee might apply if your move is delayed or called off.
Also, specialty items like pianos and pool tables that need to be disassembled and handled in a specific way, may be subject to an additional charge.

Video: Smooth Moves Take Advance Planning

For your convenience we’ve placed a transcript directly below the video.

Video Transcript: Smooth Moves Take Advance Planning

Welcome to Today’s Home Update, I’m Cheyenne.

Moving soon? It’s easy to get caught up the excitement of a move, but don’t loose sight of common moving costs.

Take for instance hiring a moving company. Your expense will vary based on distance, labor and load, and sometimes even destination. A 1,220 mile interstate move carting 7,400 pounds of belongings averages $5,630 according to BankRate.com, while an in-state move toting the same weight averages $1,170.

Not moving into your new home as soon as you had hoped? You might end up paying for storage as well which could add up to $1,000 or more each month. Taking up residence in a hotel or rental in between moves will also add up quickly.

And that quiet, tucked-away lot you paid a premium for, it could translate into more dollar signs during your move. If the moving truck can’t access your new home you could be footing the bill for a shuttle. An extra $250 – $500 per BankRate.com.

Timing is another often overlooked factor. Moving at the height of home buying and selling season typically April through October, or on weekends, generally costs more than off-peak times.

Thanks for watching Today’s Home Update, see you next time.