Moving states can be so exciting, but also expensive! That’s why we’ve put together a list of moving costs you might run into so that you can budget ahead of time and be as prepared as possible for your move.
Here are some moving costs you may run into as you move from state to state.
Moving States? Here are some typical moving costs:
1. Cleaning Service
Oftentimes when you move out from a place, you’ll have to deep clean it before you go. Unless you want to do this yourself (which can be pretty time consuming and tiring!) you might want to consider hiring a cleaning company to do it for you.
Usually, cleaning companies will give you an estimate based on the square feet (size) of your current home and charge you a flat rate, or charge you by the hour. This can add up to be at least a couple hundred dollars depending on the size of your home, so definitely keep cleaning costs in mind.
2. Boxes/Tape/Bubble Wrap
In order to haul and protect your belongings during the move, you’ll need to purchase some boxes, tape and/or bubble wrap. The price of boxes and tape can add up quickly, so it’s best to ask your friends and family if they have any extra boxes laying around that you can have! Your local liquor store may also have free boxes that you can pick up.
3. Storage Unit
If you need to store any of your items while you are in between homes, you may need to rent a storage unit to store your things in the meantime. The bigger the storage unit, the more it will cost per month.
Keep in mind that some storage units aren’t temperature controlled (no AC!) so if you happen to get a storage unit that isn’t temperature controlled, be sure to wrap or box any of your belongings that could potentially be damaged by severe heat or cold.
4. Plane Tickets
As you move from state to state, there may be times that you need to fly between two locations. If that’s the case, you’ll have to buy plane tickets.
Make sure you buy your plane tickets as far in advance as possible in order to save the most money, as plane tickets tend to be more costly the closer you buy them to your departure date.
5. Rental Cars
If you do happen to fly, you may need a rental car when you get to your destination. Rental car companies generally charge per day. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can always use a ride-sharing service like Lyft or Uber, but if that’s the route you choose to go, make sure to factor in the costs to use those as well!
6. Hotel Rooms
While you are travelling to or visiting your new home, you may need a place to stay in the meantime. Hotel rooms (or Airbnb’s) are a great option for that!
Keep in mind that if you will be travelling with a pet, you may need to find a pet-friendly hotel or Airbnb. Sometimes bringing a pet along can make your stay a little more expensive, so definitely keep that in mind.
Related to moving costs you should consider:
7. Apartment Costs
If you are moving to an apartment, you will likely have to pay a few costs in our to secure your application for the apartment. You may have to pay the following fees:
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Application Fees
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Admin Fees
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Pet fees
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Utility set-up fee
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Security Deposit
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Renter’s Insurance
Every apartment complex is different, but you’ll definitely want to keep these costs in mind just in case.
If you are moving into a home and not an apartment, you should definitely consider any similar housing costs associated with buying or renting a home.
8. Goodbye Dinners/Drinks with Friends
As the days until your move start to count down, you’ll likely want to meet up with some friends/family to say goodbye. Be sure to factor in some funds for your goodbyes!
9. U-Hauls
If you need to move things from one place to another on your own, you may choose to rent a U-Haul. The bigger your U-Haul and the longer the distance you choose to travel with it, the more expensive it’ll be to rent.
10. Gasoline (for Personal Cars or U-Hauls)
Whether you are driving your own car from state to state or you’re renting a U-Haul, you will have to fill up the gas tank! Don’t forget to factor in gasoline costs for your trip.
11. Moving Company
If you don’t want to load and unload all your belongings into a truck or U-Haul, you can hire a moving company. A moving company will typically charge a minimum fee, and then an hourly fee on top of that if you exceed the minimum number of hours. A moving company will be most costly if you have to use them and their truck to haul your belongings over a long distance.
If you hire a moving company for their movers and not the truck (say, if you wanted to pack your belongings in a U-Haul instead) the moving company will cost less because you’re not using their truck.
12. Pet Daycare/Boarding
If you are loading or unloading your moving boxes and furniture, or having the cleaning service done, you might want someone to help you take care of or watch your pet(s). You might not need this, but it’s something to consider in case you do!
13. Money for Eating Out
Once you’re in your new home, you might be a little tired after all the traveling and unpacking. Be sure to budget for a few take-out meals in the event that you’re a little too tired for grocery shopping and cooking in your new home!
14. Home Décor/Furniture
Once you get to your new home, you may find that you need some furniture or décor. It’s always fun to decorate a new home! If you imagine that might be the case, be sure to budget for these costs.
15. Vehicle Registration Fee/State License
If you have a car, you may need to get it registered in your new state, as well as get a new license! This can cost up to a couple hundred dollars depending on what state you move to.
This post was about the moving costs you should absolutely consider as you prepare for your move from state to state.
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