Moving can be expensive when you factor in all the essentials like moving labor and equipment costs, temporary lodging if necessary and transportation. Your move savings can also depend on whether you have a job lined up and how far you’ll be moving. Budgeting for a move requires smart planning to ensure you can find stability in your new home.

Here are some money saving tips to ensure you’re financially prepared for your move.

How Much Money Should You Save Before Moving?

How much money you should save varies depending on the cost of living in the city to which you’re moving. Moving to cities with inflated costs of living like Los Angeles, San Francisco or Seattle will require you to save more money compared to cities with more affordable costs of living. A general rule of thumb is that you should save three months’ worth of expenses plus any additional moving costs.

Defining the right amount of money to save can be tricky. The best place to start is by calculating standard expenses such as rent and utilities. Utility costs can vary by the season thanks to heating and cooling costs. If you’re moving during winter to a region with mild winters, your heating utility bill will likely be much lower. Figure out the average for the region you’re moving to and factor it into your three-month savings plan.

Next, you’ll need to determine how much it’s going to cost you to move your household items. This cost is dependent on how many of your belongings you’re moving and how far you’re transporting them. DIY moving is the cheapest option, especially if you have your own flatbed truck – the only costs you’ll have to worry about are gas and the wear and tear on your vehicle. However, most people will need to rent a moving truck, which for inter-city moves could cost between $40 and $150 and for other in-state moves, between $300 and $600. Moving to another state can cost much more depending on the distance. Many moving companies offer affordable rates or specials for moves out of state – research online to find the best company for you.

Additional costs to consider include food, transportation and lifestyle factors. Though this is an area where many people try to save a few extra dollars, it’s okay to add some fun to your moving budget. Saving money for a night out in your new city can help you become acquainted with your surroundings, for instance. Even though a diet of rice and beans is affordable, it can be miserable, so make sure to budget enough money for a varied, fulfilling diet of different foods.

Budgeting for a move is all about smart planning. If you focus on the essential items you need to live in your new location and forfeit some small luxuries, you’ll have an easy, affordable transition to your new home.

Move Confidently with Continental Van Lines’ Moving Services

At Continental Van Lines, our affordable residential moving services won’t strain your moving budget. Our friendly moving coordinators and managers take the stress out of your transition by creating affordable moving plans that meet your needs. Whether you want a white glove solution or a hands-on move, we will create a plan that works for you.
Our nationwide moving services include, but are not limited to:

  • Full-service packing and unpacking services
  • 24/7 moving coordinators
  • Shipment tracking and security
  • Vehicle transportation
  • Furniture assembly/disassembly services
  • And much more

We’ve gained a reputation as the Pacific-Northwest’s most trusted moving company because we get our clients’ items to their new destination safely and securely.

Contact Continental Van Lines to get a free quote today!