Likely not your favorite way to spend a weekend, you have an upcoming move to plan for. No matter how many times you changed addresses over the years, you may still find you spend more money than you’d like getting settled into your new digs. Knowing how to create a proper budget can save you a lot of headache and money.
Take Stock
First, go from room to room to see what you need to pack up, box up and move out. Take inventory for each individual room, so you have a framework for how much work you have to do.
Decide What to Leave to the Professionals
Depending on the size of the home you’re moving from and the property you’re moving into, you may need to hire professional moving services st louis mo. If so, budget for the basic moving fee, specialty moving fees (if you have a piano or pool table to move) and the price of moving insurance in case movers damage or lose your belongings. Even if you hire movers, you can still save money by packing up and boxing your own items.
Nail Down the When and Where
The time of year in which you move also affects your budget. For instance, many people move during the warmer months of the year. This means moving companies and truck rental services experience a lot of business, which may result in higher prices. By moving in the winter, you could find a good deal with movers needing to drum up some business.
On a related note, include the distance of your move in your budget. Moving a few streets over does not cost as much in gas as moving several zip codes away from your current residence. Also, depending on your geographic location, you may need a moving permit when parking a moving truck, which increases your overall costs.
Account for Day-to-Day Costs
Life doesn’t stop just because you’re moving. Budget for meals, childcare, pet sitting, groceries and everyday items for your new place while designing your budget. Even if you already budget for most of these costs, you may spend more than usual while moving.
Unexpected Expenses
During your move, you may encounter emergencies such as a car or moving truck break down, an injury or just an expense you didn’t budget for. That’s why it’s a good idea to leave some breathing room in your spending rather than budget down to the penny.
Creating a proper budget for your move can help ease your headache regarding the ordeal. See how the above tips work for you.