Plan for a Smooth Move: Don’t Forget These Common Expenses

Moving into a new place can be an exciting time – the last thing you want during this transitional time is unnecessary money worries. To cut down on stress, complete a spending plan for the move beforehand to avoid going into debt to cover your needs. Here are some potential “moving” spending categories to figure into your calculations:

• Income that will be lost because of time spent on the move
• Extra rent that has to be paid after moving out or before moving in to new place
• Expenses of selling a home
• Expenses for having your previous place cleaned
• Cost of pre-trip vehicle tune-up
• Transportation costs for you (plane tickets, gas, hotels)
• Food while in transit
• Moving company services
• Large-item packing supplies for the move (blankets, foam, etc.)
• Moving insurance
• Storage facility fees
• Smaller-item packing supplies like boxes, tape, markers, bubble wrap or foam peanuts
• Pet transportation costs
• Cost of shipping certain specialty items
• Parking fees
• Temporary housing if you still need to look for a new place
• Costs of buying a new home
• Deposit for the new place if renting
• Furnishings needed for new dwelling
• Increases in utility expenses or fees for service start-up
• Cost of registering your vehicle or getting a new driver’s license in the new location

While certainly a break in your routine, moving doesn’t have to be a time of calamity. With a little effort into preparedness, you can make your new start a happy one.