How to Estimate Moving Cost

Whether you are moving across town or across the country, packing, loading, unloading and unpacking your belongings can be a costly and harrowing experience. One of the first major decisions you will have to make is whether you want to hire a professional mover or do it yourself. By planning ahead, researching and budgeting properly, you can arm yourself with the knowledge and financial aid needed to make your move a success.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Hiring Professional Movers

1. Decide whether you are going to pack your belongings or, for an additional charge, save time and avoid a hassle by allowing movers to pack for you.

2. Contact two to three moving companies, and request a quote for their services. Quote requests can be made over the Internet or by telephone. They will need the following information: Where and when do you plan to move? How many rooms are involved? How many large pieces of furniture do you own? Will items need to be moved upstairs or downstairs? How far from the front door will the moving truck be parked?
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3. Be aware of the details of your quote. Some companies may provide an estimate based on volume while others may use weight. Also don't just look at the price, consider what services are included in the estimate.

Do It Youself

4. Estimate the size moving truck you will need, and contact rental agencies such as Budget, Penske, Ryder and Uhaul to request a quote. Be prepared to tell them when you are going to need the truck, for how long and where you plan on picking it up and dropping it off.

5. Factor in any additional costs (such as gas, food and lodging) that may be needed while you are on the road. Also consider whether you will need to pay other people to help you load and unload the truck.

6. Consider whether you have the appropriate equipment and expertise to move large or expensive possessions. For example, you may need a dolly to move a refrigerator or ice chest. You may need to call someone experienced in moving pianos to help load and move your precious baby grand.

Tips & Warnings

• If hiring professional movers ask to see their certificate of insurance and make sure they are properly insured to move your possessions. If moving for work, save your receipts! Moving expenses may be tax deductible in you pass the "distance" and "time" test.
• Remember, when hiring professional movers they may be held liable for any damages they incur. If you choose to do it yourself though, there will be no reimbursement for broken or missing items.

References

• Mortgage News Daily-Estimate moving costs by planning ahead
• IRS- Time and Distance Test