Moving is stressful. There’s so much time that goes into deciding what’s worth keeping, what’s worth selling, and what needs to be ditched completely. There are also additional costs involved, many of which aren’t obvious.
I recently moved from Philadelphia to a small town in New Jersey, and even though I tried to save by moving myself, I was blindsided by additional fees. Next time you try to move yourself, be aware of these potential extras:
1. Insurance for your possessions
Insurance is typically optional, but you can’t not buy it when your belongings (some presumably fragile) and money are on the line. I paid $14 for basic insurance on a 10-foot U-Haul truck.
2. Mileage
The cost of a moving truck alone can run into the hundreds, depending on the size of the van and the distance. But if you think it’s like renting a car — unlimited mileage — think again. Many companies charge per mile after you’ve driven an allotted distance. For instance, after I drove 50 miles, I started getting charged $0.40 per mile.
In addition, you have to return the truck with the same amount of gas as when you picked it up. Otherwise, you’ll be charged a hefty fee.
3. Environmental fees
U-Haul charges a $1 environmental fee for those who rent moving vans. According to its website:
“U-Haul is committed to pursuing practices that support and foster the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly business operations.”
While nobody can really complain about a dollar, it’s still an extra fee.
4. Using movers? Don’t forget the tip
If you hire movers, you already know what you’re getting yourself into financially, but what you might not know is it’s also appropriate to tip. According to SaveologyMoving.com, a $20-$50 tip is appropriate for a move that involves more than 10 items and/or stairs, a cramped elevator, narrow passages, or large and/or heavy items, such as appliances.
5. Save a little for utilities
While this technically isn’t a cost of moving, something else to remember: utility deposits.
For some, deposits to get utilities turned on may be obvious. For me, it wasn’t. I hadn’t paid deposit fees for utilities in the past. When I called my new electric company, I learned I had to pay a $140 deposit (luckily, one that will be returned to me when I move again). I was also told I’d be charged a one-time $14 service fee when I received my first bill.
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