Moving is never easy on your wallet, but with practical research and a savvy budget, you’ll be financially prepared to tackle your local Utah move.
If you’re preparing to relocate, establishing a budget is one of the first steps you should take, but it can be confusing to know where to start. Forbes reports that the national average cost of completing a local move is about $1,400. No matter how you feel about that amount, you should know there are many options out there to help you save on your local move.
Stay tuned as we break down the costs associated with moving and help you save money along the way.
Factors that Affect Your Moving Cost
As you set out to determine the cost of your local Utah move, start by creating a list of the various expenses that will factor into it. You’ll be able to prepare appropriately if you know what you can expect to spend money on before you get started. The following costs won’t all necessarily apply to you but select the ones that do and jot them down on paper or a digital spreadsheet.
- Transportation – The transportation category can be one of the most expensive umbrellas in a moving budget. This encompasses all of the fees related to travel and hauling, including rental truck rates, gas, and the cost of your own transportation for moving day. Rental truck rates vary depending on the size you need, how long you need it for, and how far you’re traveling, so expect to see lower costs for an in-state move as opposed to long-distance.
- Insurance – Truck rental companies provide basic insurance, but you might want to purchase additional liability coverage, too. If you’re working with movers, you might also consider purchasing moving insurance. Check with your homeowners’ insurance first to see what they cover before looking at alternative options.
- Equipment rental – Truck rental companies often rent out equipment that will make your move easier, but local hardware stores sometimes offer lower rates. Such equipment includes dollies, trailers, blankets, lifting straps, furniture skates, ramps, and more.
- Storage container or unit – Will you be utilizing a storage unit or container for your move? If so, don’t forget to factor in these rates. Shop around to get a handful of estimates as you search for storage options. The total cost will depend on the size of the unit, how long you need it for, and its location.
- Storage supplies – If you’re planning on using a storage facility, you’ll need to gather up storage materials in addition to moving supplies. This includes plastic containers, additional boxes, and packing materials.
- Packing and supplies – It’s not always possible to predict how many boxes and rolls of tape you’ll need, but at the very least, you’ll want to list all of the supplies you need to purchase. Forking over your hard-earned money for some cardboard boxes that will inevitably be recycled is a hard pill to swallow; thankfully, there are several ways to acquire cheap, or even free, moving supplies. Check out online marketplaces, liquor stores, recycling centers, or ask your friends and family to save their shipment packages for you.
- Cleaning – Whether you’re renting or buying/selling, you’ll need to clean your home before closing the door with finality. Associated expenses include cleaning supplies or hiring a professional cleaner to make the space shine. You might also want to hire a professional to scrub your new residence before settling in.
- Child care or pet care – Do you have children or pets? If so, you’ll probably want them out of your hair during the big move. Consider the cost of child or pet care if necessary.
- Time off work – Unless you work for a company that provides paid time off, you’ll need to account for the missing wages if you’re staying home for a few days. If you can’t afford to take any time off work, consider moving over the weekend or on another day where you typically don’t work.
- Groceries and take-out – There’s not always time to plan meals and cook during a big move. That being said, you’ll want to set aside some money to account for take-out and groceries upon moving in. Also account for the cost of snacks, water, or other drinks that you plan to provide on moving day.
- Lodging – Will you be moving directly into your new home or will you need to stay at a hotel temporarily? If you plan to use a hotel, be sure to plan for these accommodations.
- Utility set up – Some companies charge a fee to set up utility services at your new home. Check with your providers in advance to plan for these expenses.
- Working with professionals – If you’re looking to combine many of these costs and save yourself some time, hiring professional movers is the way to go. Account for the services you’re planning on paying for such as moving rates/fees, packing services, moving insurance, specialty item packaging services, or unpacking services.
Easy Ways to Cut Moving Costs
Once you’ve listed out the fees associated with your move, observe the areas where costs can be cut. Here are a few simple ways to cut down on these expenses:
- Find as many free boxes and packing supplies as possible
- Move during the off-season
- Pack or unpack everything yourself
- Consider a moving container
- Donate, sell, or toss unneeded belongings to lighten your load
Choose Best of the West Movers for a Financially-Savvy Move
If you want to save yourself time and money on your local Utah move, Best of the West Movers is here for you! We’re a full-service moving company that does everything from packing to long-distance relocations across the country. Plus, we do it all at an affordable rate that you’ll love.
We’re proud to serve residents in Davis and Salt Lake County, Utah, including Layton, Kaysville, West Jordan, Herriman, and more! Contact us today to learn more and receive your free estimate. We’re looking forward to making your next move the easiest one yet!
