While planning your upcoming move there are a lot of different aspects to take into consideration. You could be moving for a multitude of different reasons - new job, going away to college or even to be closer to family.
Here are some things you should take into account while financially planning your move in order to make sure that it goes off without a hitch.
Make a Budget and Start Saving
Once your move is a sure thing there you have to know all the expenses that may come along with it. Shipping, gas, hotel and insurance costs pile up quickly. Another thing may be security deposits on your new place and starting utilities - these things can be quickly draining financially if you don't think of them ahead of time. Make a budget and a savings plan to cover all these costs, and even some that you may not consider.
Your budget planning shouldn’t stop when you get to your destination. Cost of living varies from region to region, and your current salary might not afford you the same luxuries after the move. Use a cost of living calculator to determine how far your current salary will take you in specific cities across the country to see if moving out of state is a smart fiscal idea.
Check What Your Employer Will Cover
Some companies cover relocation costs, but it is important to know exactly what that entails. Your employer may reimburse items such as shipping services, packing services, transportation and travel expenses associated with searching for your new home — if you are moving specifically for the job. Negotiate during the hiring process and ask whether your employer will cover other costs such as lease cancellation fees, realtor assistance, temporary housing and storage.
Decide What You’re Moving
Is it really cost-effective to move a decade-old, 100-pound couch and an outdated TV? Take an inventory of everything you own — especially bulky furniture and electronics — and calculate if it would make more sense to sell the items before you move and reinvest your earnings in replacements once you get to your destination. Don’t forget to factor in what you might save in time, money and energy by not hauling these heavy items. At Express Moving Consultants we are also able to help you determine what is worth moving long-distance.
Research Movers, Truck Rentals and Shipping Companies
The three most popular ways to transport belongings across state lines are professional movers, truck rental companies and container services that provide and transport self-storage containers that you fill yourself. Although each service has its own perks, prices can vary drastically depending on where you're moving from and to and also how much you're moving.
Typically we say if you're moving over 300 miles or so, you are better off going with a professional moving company. We include all taxes, fuel surcharges and fees in our total cost and most of the time it is very comparable to what you would pay moving yourself in a rental truck.
Professional Movers
If you opt for full service, the movers will pack, load, ship and unpack all of your belongings, so the only thing left for you to do is to tell them where to park the couch. Many people choose to do the packing themselves to save money and ensure proper handling.
Estimating the costs of professional moving services isn’t as easy as jumping online. We have multiple ways on our website that you can submit pictures/videos of the items you're moving or you can even fill out a list yourself. And of course, if this is something you would like us to guide you through we are happy to do that as well!
Obtain Estimates
Do your due diligence before signing a contract with a moving, truck rental or shipping company. Obtain at least three shipping cost estimates from different companies in order to ensure the best deal. User-review sites can help you find the most reliable companies. You might also ask friends and family on social media for recommendations.
You can visit us on Twitter, Facebook, MyMovingReviews.com and our website - www.expressmoveconsultants.com
Make Sure You Have Enough Insurance Coverage
Anything can happen when all of your worldly possessions are packed into one space, speeding down the highway. Although moving companies provide insurance options to protect your belongings, it is important to understand the nuances of each package. The U.S. Department of Transportation outlines typical moving insurance options on its website.
We do have a couple different 3rd party insurance companies that we work with that specifically insure moves - either the whole move or certain items.
Keep Your Valuables Close
Keep irreplaceable items with you at all times, whether you are driving or flying. Although professional movers will take as good care of your items as possible, mistakes happen and we don't want you to be in a situation where something happens of your irreplaceable items.
Update Your Information
Making a long-distance move can be overwhelming and there may be basic items you overlook. Any recurring bills as well as day to day mail be sure to alert the U.S. Postal Service once you have a new address.
You also will need to obtain a new driver’s license and vehicle registration. Each state sets different timelines. Visit your local DMV to check that off your to-do list. While you’re there, ask for a pamphlet on state driving laws. For example, you might be surprised to find that it is illegal to drive while operating a cellphone in your new state. Do your research and know the laws before you get dinged with a ticket. After you’ve registered, don’t forget to update your car insurance policy.
By following these guidelines you will be able to be prepared for your upcoming move and we will be there to help you along the way!
-Express Moving Consultants