Moving Costs to Prepare For
Making sure that the moving van is all ready is just one step in making the transition to a new home. Knowing the essential moving costs will prepare a new home owner for the big day.
Packaging Materials
Newspaper may be cheaper than bubble wrap, but compare the costs of damaging a beloved heirloom to getting some old newspaper, and bubble wrap wins hands down. Boxes should be clearly labeled using black felt tip marker and secured with packing tape. Ask grocery and liquor stores for free boxes or check from listings in the internet from people who just moved in your community. Alternatively, prepare a few months in advance and just collect the boxes.
Insurance
Check with agents for the coverage of homeowners’ insurance. To get the best protection, it is advisable to get full-replacement valuation from the moving services. One can also avail of the cheapest valuation which will only cost 30 to 60 cents per pound per article, depending on the distance of the move. However, cheap protection cost also means minimal insurance.
Extra Charges
- Expensive items like pianos or art collections may incur special handling charges and extra insurance coverage. Third-party movers may also be required for items that need disassembly like gym equipment.
- Professional movers are usually tipped 25 dollars for each crew member. Food and drinks are not required, but encouraged.
- Travel costs, including gas and meals. The farther the move, the higher these in-transit costs would be.
- Unforeseen costs caused by delays.
Lately, there has been an increase in complaints against moving companies who hijack their clients’ stuff for additional charges. Homeowners need not worry about scammers if they get referrals from friends and family, and complete a background check first.
Be sure that a written moving quote and all other necessary paperwork are also provided by the company. Still, it is always wise to save a little extra for unfortunate events when computing for moving costs.
