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Develop a Moving BudgetMoving can be an expensive process and more often than not you find there are expenses you did not plan on which crop up to cause you serious financial problems. Much of this can be avoided by developing a moving budget as soon as you begin tot think about moving. One of the biggest expenses you will likely face in your move is actual moving company expenses. If you plan to hire a moving company you should plan to pay for the actual moving company fee, additional insurance, extra services, claims and damage costs and professional packing fees. The actual moving company fee will cover the labor and fuel charges. If you wish you may also include additional insurance for highly valuable items as well as extra fees in order to move items that are particularly heavy such as appliances or a large piano. You do not have to pay for professional packing, but if you are in a time crunch you may find it to be helpful. If you are not using a moving service and instead plan to move on your own you will still have expenses which usually include a truck rental, gas, insurance, additional equipment rental and incidentals. Rates for the truck rental vary according to the size of the truck you rent and whether you are going one way or plan to return the truck on site. Of course, the cost of gas continues to escalate so make sure you plan for the entire distance and make accommodations for the truck's MPG; which is likely to be less than your normal vehicle. If you do not have a loading ramp or dolly, you may need to plan for these expenses when moving on your own as well. Depending on the distance you are moving you may also need to plan to cover such expenses as transportation, lodging, meals, temporary housing and child or pet care. Packing and storage fees may also be necessary depending on your needs. If you will be living in temporary housing for awhile you may find it necessary to rent a storage facility for some of your belongings. Finally, do not forget to budget for such expenses as utility deposits, apartment rental deposit and a pet deposit, if you are moving with a pet. |
