How to Calculate Expenses for Moving to College
Calculating the cost of moving to college is similar to budgeting for any move. The cost will vary significantly depending on your particular situation. There are countless details to consider both before you leave and once you arrive. By thinking through all of the contingencies, gathering some valuable information and planning ahead, you may get a solid estimate of your expected cost and avoid unnecessary expenses.
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Instructions
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Decide what you'll bring. Before you may calculate the cost of your move, you first need to know how much stuff you'll be moving. If you'll be living with a roommate, make contact as soon as possible to figure out what essentials she'll be bringing. By coordinating these details, you may avoid buying multiple sets of curtains or floor rugs. If possible, get the dimensions of your room to be sure that you're not overestimating the size of what you'll be able to fit in your new abode.
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Make a list of what you already have and the things that you still need to pick up. Collegeboard.com provides a checklist of commonly used college essentials, including clothing, electronics, toiletries and school supplies. Once you've identified outstanding items, search online to get an idea of prices. Make a note of local or online retailers that offer the lowest prices.
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Reserve a moving truck. Once you've purchased and gathered everything you'll take, call at least two truck rental companies. Inquire about truck costs and sizes, based on what you'll be bringing. Most companies are able to provide you with an estimated truck size based on the size of apartment or dorm room into which you'll be moving. Add the cost of the rental to your running total of expenses.
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Calculate the cost of gasoline. Inquire about the typical mileage of your moving truck, then determine the number of miles from your home to your new school. Divide the number of miles to be driven by the average miles per gallon in gasoline. Multiply the result by the price of one gallon of gasoline. Add this figure to your running total of expenses. Be sure to double this amount if you will be returning the truck to its original location. Also reserve enough money to fill the tank of the truck immediately before returning it to the rental company.
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Arrive and unpack. If you've planned well, you probably have most of what you need at the cost you predicted. There's no doubt, however, that you will discover items that you either forgot to bring or never anticipated needing. It's a good idea to add at least $100 to your expected expenses in order to cover these miscellaneous costs.
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References
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