Moving to a new home is exciting, but it’s no secret that the costs can add up quickly. With so many details to juggle—securing a new place, hiring movers, packing—it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket expenses while smaller, unexpected costs slip through the cracks.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the moving pieces (and expenses), you’re not alone. The good news? A little planning can go a long way in avoiding financial surprises. Below, we’ll walk through some of the most commonly overlooked moving costs and share tips to help you budget with confidence.
1. Moving Company Fees
Understanding your moving estimate type is crucial to avoid surprises on moving day:
- Non-binding estimate: You pay for the actual cost of the move, which can be higher or lower than the original estimate depending on the final weight of your belongings.
- Binding estimate: You pay the exact amount quoted in the estimate, regardless of whether the actual move ends up costing more or less.
- Not-to-exceed estimate: You won’t pay more than the estimated amount, but if your final move weight is less than expected, you could end up paying less.
Extra fees for accessibility issues: Moving logistics can sometimes require additional time and effort, which may lead to extra costs. These fees can vary based on factors such as:
- Long carry fees: If the moving truck cannot park close to your home, movers may charge extra for carrying items over a certain distance.
- Elevator reservations: Some buildings require reserving an elevator for moves, which could come with an additional fee.
- Bulky or specialty items: Moving items like pianos, safes, or oversized furniture may require additional labor and special handling, leading to extra charges.
Rescheduling or cancellation costs: Changing your moving date—especially at the last minute—can result in hefty penalties. Fees for rescheduling or canceling depend on how much notice you provide:
- Last-minute cancellations (24-48 hours before the move) may result in losing your deposit or paying a cancellation fee.
- Rescheduling within a short window may lead to additional administrative fees or higher rates if the new date is during peak moving season.
- Changing the scope of services (e.g., adding packing services at the last minute) may also incur extra costs.
2. Packing & Materials Costs for Moving
Supplies add up: The cost of supplies like moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and specialty containers can add up quickly. Expect to spend anywhere from a few dollars per box for small sizes to over $10 for specialty containers like wardrobe or picture boxes. Bubble wrap and packing peanuts can range from $50 to $100+ per bulk roll or bag, while packing tape typically costs a few dollars per roll.
Professional packing services: Hiring movers to pack your belongings can save time, but comes at an additional cost.
- Local movers typically charge around $60 per hour for packing services, with costs varying based on the level of packing required.
- For long-distance moves, packing is usually included as part of a fixed-price estimate based on the size of your move and the types of items being packed.
- Full-service packing, where movers pack all household items, can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the size of the home.
- Partial packing services, like only packing fragile or specialty pieces, are a more budget-friendly option.
Equipment rentals: If handling the move yourself, you may need to rent essential equipment:
- Furniture dollies and hand trucks typically cost between $10 and $30 per day to rent.
- Mattress bags for protection can cost around $10 to $15.
- Furniture pads and moving blankets may be rented per piece or in bulk, with costs varying by provider.
3. Moving Insurance & Liability Coverage
Basic vs. full-value protection: Moving companies typically offer two types of liability coverage:
- Basic coverage (Released Value Protection): This is the most affordable option, often included at no extra charge. However, it only provides minimal coverage—usually around $0.60 per pound per item.
- Full-Value Protection: This more comprehensive option ensures that the moving company either repairs, replaces, or reimburses you for lost or damaged items. The cost varies but is often around 1% of the total valuation of your belongings.
Homeowners’ or renters’ insurance: Some policies offer limited coverage for items in transit, but it’s essential to check the specifics. If your policy doesn’t cover moves, you may need additional coverage or a temporary moving insurance policy.
Special coverage for high-value items: Standard moving insurance may not fully cover antiques, artwork, electronics, or jewelry. You may need to purchase additional valuation coverage from the moving company or secure a policy through a third-party insurer for valuable belongings.
4. Transportation & Travel Expenses
Consider the costs of getting from point A to point B—whether driving yourself or arranging transport, travel expenses can add up quickly.
- Driving costs: Long-distance moves involve expenses such as gas, tolls, and potential vehicle maintenance. If you’re driving a large moving truck, fuel costs can be significantly higher than those of a standard vehicle.
- Hotels and meals: If your move spans multiple days, factor in lodging and food expenses. Hotel stays can range from budget-friendly motels to higher-end accommodations, depending on your preference. Daily meal costs can also add up quickly, especially for families.
- Car shipping services: If you’re not driving your vehicle, shipping it can be a significant cost. Prices vary based on distance and vehicle type, with coast-to-coast transport often costing several hundred to over a thousand dollars. Expedited shipping or enclosed transport options for luxury vehicles may come at an even higher premium.
5. Moving Storage Fees
If your move requires short or long-term storage, it’s important to factor in the costs, which can vary widely based on size, location, and special requirements.
- Short-term vs. long-term storage: Storage costs can vary based on the unit size and duration. A small unit may cost around $50 to $100 per month, while a larger unit can range from $150 to $300+ per month, depending on the location.
- Climate-controlled units: These units, which are necessary for delicate items like artwork or electronics, tend to be 20% to 50% more expensive than standard storage units.
- Access and late pickup fees: Some storage facilities charge extra for after-hours access, late retrieval, or administrative fees for extending storage beyond the initial agreement.
6. Utility Setup & Cancellation Fees
Transferring utilities to your new home isn’t always free—service setup, cancellations, and deposits can add to your moving expenses.
- Disconnection and reconnection charges: Many utility companies charge fees to transfer or cancel service, which can range from $25 to $100 per utility.
- Internet and cable installation costs: Setting up Wi-Fi and cable at your new home may involve installation fees or deposits, often costing $50 to $200.
- Security deposits for new services: If you’re a new customer, utility providers may require a deposit upfront, which can range from $100 to $300, depending on the provider and your credit history.
We’re almost there, I promise!
7. Cleaning & Repairs When Moving
Leaving your old home in good condition can come with extra costs, from professional cleaning to minor repairs and junk removal.
- Move-out cleaning: Some landlords require professional cleaning before returning your security deposit, which can cost $100 to $300+.
- Minor repairs: Patching holes, painting walls, or fixing damage can be an unexpected expense, typically ranging from $50 to $500, depending on the extent of the work.
- Junk removal fees: Disposing of unwanted furniture or excess trash may require hiring a removal service, with costs ranging from $75 to $600, depending on the volume of items.
8. New Home Setup Costs
Once you’ve moved in, additional expenses like furniture, security upgrades, and move-in fees may surprise you.
- Furniture and appliances: Your new space may need additional furnishings or upgrades, which can add up quickly.
- Changing locks: Hiring a locksmith to change locks costs between $75 and $250, depending on the type of lock and labor involved.
- HOA or renter’s move-in fees: Some buildings require a move-in deposit or scheduling fees for elevator use, which can range from $100 to $500.
Moving Budget Solutions
Moving can come with more costs than you expect, but with the right planning, you can keep expenses manageable and avoid last-minute financial stress. Here are a few ways to stay on top of your moving budget:
- Plan ahead and get multiple estimates: Request detailed estimates from at least three moving companies to compare pricing and understand potential additional fees, such as fuel surcharges or specialty item handling.
- Shop smart for packing supplies: Save money by checking local stores or online marketplaces for free or discounted boxes. Buying supplies in bulk can also help cut costs.
- Plan for the unexpected: Even with careful planning, extra expenses can pop up. Setting aside a small contingency fund for things like extra moving hours or last-minute storage needs can provide peace of mind.
- Check your insurance coverage: Review your renters’ or homeowners’ insurance policy to see what’s covered during the move. If needed, look into additional moving insurance for valuable or fragile items.
You made it (celebratory round of applause)!
Moving comes with a lot of moving parts (and costs), but with the right planning and a solid budget, you can take control and make the process smoother. And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone.
At Gentle Giant, we believe moving should be as seamless and stress-free as possible. Our caring, highly trained team is here to guide you every step of the way—with expert advice, transparent pricing, and customizable moving solutions to fit your needs. Contact us today for your free estimate and a moving experience you can feel good about!