Ultimate Local Moving Expenses Checklist

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According to the American Moving and Storage Association, the average cost of an intrastate move is $2,300. Depending on what region of the country you’re in, it can vary. The bottom line is simple: relocation can be costly, and you’ll have to have a moving expenses checklist if you don’t want your wallet running dry. Here are some pointers to help you keep an eye on your money.

Items for budgeting on table.

Setting a Moving Budget Should Come First

Before you get too excited and rush off to the supply store, take a moment to think about how much relocation will cost you. There are plenty of factors you should consider and how much of your finances you’ll have to dedicate to moving to your new house or apartment on the other side of Denver. Knowing what resources you have to work with is the key to any successful move; in this case, that’s a checklist.

What’s So Important About A Moving Budget

If money could fall from trees, then relocating to a new home would be a cinch. Unfortunately, it’s not how the world functions, so you have to make do with what you have. Budgeting gives you vital information about what you have and what you need; the most significant advantage is that you save time and some extra cash. List down everything associated with your local move and plan with what you have available.

Woman at table looking over notes.

Budget before you do anything.

Tips On Getting A Checklist Started

Getting started on a checklist isn’t hard. You can grab your phone, laptop, or tablet. You can even grab just a pen and paper. If you’re having trouble on how to start, here are some things to write down:

  • List any costs you can think of at first, like packing supplies, movers services, travel, etc. Simply writing things down can help you get your brain working, and you’ll be surprised at what you think of,
  • Do further research to see if there’s anything you missed on your list. It’s always a safe idea to get a second opinion,
  • At the bottom of your page, write down an estimate of how much money you think everything will cost,
  • Look up the prices for each item you listed and write them down for a total,
  • Compare the total to your estimate. If your estimate is lower than the total, check to see what items you might not need. Try to match the total or get as close as you can.

Person writing things on checklist.

Getting a checklist started is simple.

Costs To Consider Before The Move

In case you might have missed something while creating your checklist, here are some things that are vital for relocating:

  • Packing Supplies – Getting everything you need to pack is a big task and can take a decent chunk out of your budget. Be sure to look for any deals, promotions, or compare store prices. Movers offer packing services that come with supplies for your convenience.
  • Moving Services – Hiring movers can help save you lots of time and even a little money. Check to see what services are offered and select according to your needs.
  • Down Payments and Deposits – Always coordinate with your local bank or your landlord about paying any deposits or down payments to your new home. Not having paid off anything owed can affect your set relocation date or cause more problems later on.
  • Homeowner’s Insurance – Most lenders won’t allow you to move in their property unless you have some homeowner’s insurance. Being insured covers any damage to your house or furniture.

Woman at desk counting money.

Think about what you’ll spend your money on first.

Travel Cost

Let’s talk about commuting. Not only do you have to account for before and after expenses, but you also need to take care of the actual move. Aside from just gas, you have other things to consider, and you’ll want to cover all your bases:

  • Truck rental – Depending on how much stuff you have, you may have to rent a truck or hire a local moving service that offers them;
  • Loading and unloading – Loading your belongings may not be as heavy on your wallet, but it does eat up a lot of time. Most local movers offer a labor service where you can have them help you load everything quickly and correctly;
  • Road Tolls – People frequently get blindsided by road tolls and don’t have any cash or access to a toll pass. Look up what routes you should take to avoid any if you can;
  • Gas – Be especially careful about fuel costs. Gas stations can vary in price, and depending on if you have a car or a truck and the distance; it might be more than you expect;
  • Food for the road – All that work and travel will drive you crazy on an empty stomach. Be sure to get some snacks.

Woman filling tank at gas station.

Traveling can also be costly.

Miscellaneous Expenses

It’s tough to anticipate everything when budgeting, and this task is easy to forget because of all the moving stress. Be sure to always factor in miscellaneous items and costs on your list.

Hidden Fees

Some say that the hardest blow is the one you don’t see coming. Getting charged with a hidden fee can hurt your budget if you aren’t careful. Check and review your mover’s services and policies to see if there are any hidden charges or fees.

Living Expenses

While you’re getting everything ready for relocation, remember to factor in everything outside of the move. If you have kids at home or are moving with pets, you’ll need to hire a sitter or daycare center to watch them. Also, make sure that you don’t have any outstanding payments like a deposit or down payment on your house.

Person using calculator on table.

Don’t forget about other expenses outside of relocating.

How To Reduce Relocation Expenses

Relocation costs can add up quickly if you aren’t careful. You might end up going over budget, and that’s not good. If there is any chance for you to save money, you always take it or can try some of these tips.

Find Low-Cost or Free Supplies

If you’re looking to save your pennies, you can always check dollar stores, thrift stores, or borrow some from friends. You’ll be able to save quite a bit if you manage to find enough. It’s much cheaper than buying brand new supplies.

Pack Yourself

Packing on your own may take a long time, especially if you’re using a truck. However, you can save money and keep under budget.

Have A Yard Sale

Doing this just before you move can help you in more ways than one. You’ll downsize the amount you have to pack, and you can make some extra cash on the side selling home items you don’t want.

Look Up Moving Company Service Offers

When hiring local movers near you, you should always check to see what offers they have and find services that can save you a lot of time. Contact Seattle Professional Movers and request a quote. We offer a wide range of moving services designed to help make your relocation effortless.