Moving Expenses

Whether you hire professional movers or tackle the move yourself, moving expenses

can easily add up to several thousand dollars. There are many hidden costs to

consider as well, including cleaning supplies, new furniture and even new car

registration fees. While you can save money by collecting free boxes and taking on

some of the work yourself, a few things are better left to the professionals.

Local movers charge an hourly rate of $25 to $50 for each person working on your

move, which can quickly add up depending on the size of your home and how much

you have to transport. You may also have to pay extra for specialty boxes, such as

ones for dishes or glassware, and other packing supplies, like tape, bubble wrap and

paper. One way to keep your move costs down is to collect boxes from your

workplace or local stores and search online for discounts on these items.

If you are making a corporate relocation, your company will likely pay for some or all

of your moving expenses. However, this typically involves strict record keeping by

you and your employer, and your employer may limit how much they will reimburse

you.

Moving expenses include the cost of transporting your household goods and

personal effects, as well as those of members of your family, from your former home

to your new home. It can also include storing your goods and expenses related to

the connection or disconnection of utility services at your old and new homes.

Generally, you can deduct these expenses as part of your income tax return.

Aside from the expense of a truck rental or a professional moving company, your

other biggest moving-related expense will be hiring someone to clean your house

and pack it up for you. A thorough cleaning of your current home and a deep clean

of your new residence are important for avoiding unpleasant surprises when you

unpack and settle in to your new house.

Insurance costs are another potential moving expense, depending on where you are

going and how long you are staying. Make sure you factor in homeowner’s insurance

and, if necessary, additional insurance for a variety of hazards, such as floods,

earthquakes and hurricanes.

You should also take the time to research the area you are considering moving to,

particularly if you are buying a home. Be sure you know what the average housing

prices are, what the crime rate is like and what the weather patterns are like. This

can help you determine if the area is a good fit for your budget and lifestyle. If you

are unsure about the housing market, it may be better to rent for awhile and build

up your savings before buying. This can also give you more flexibility in the future, if

you decide to sell your home or change jobs. Umzugsskosten