While moving into a new home can be exciting, there are logistics you’ll have to tackle before you can settle in. One of the most significant will be covering expenses. Along with your new property’s sticker price and your closing costs (such as land transfer taxes and title insurance), these include the amount you’ll pay to complete the moving process.

If you’re planning a move soon, here’s what you should know about the costs involved…

Factors that impact your price

First off, you’ll have to decide on a level of service. Do you want to rent a truck and do everything else on your own? If you’d prefer to have movers assist you, will they do the packing, moving, and unpacking—or simply get your possessions from point a to point b?

Then there’s the distance that your belongings will travel. For a truck, you’ll likely pay a base rate ($19.95 for U-Haul) along with fuel and mileage. As a result, a longer-distance move is bound to be pricier. To use the U-Haul example, rates start at $0.49 per kilometre. Needless to say, it can add up quickly if you’re moving to another city or province.

If you hire movers to do the heavy lifting, your price will be calculated differently. For a local move, it’s based on the hours they put in (and probably the number of employees required). If it’s long-distance, it will likely depend on the weight of your belongings.

Lastly, the time of year will make a difference. If you move in the summer, at the very beginning or end of the month, or on a statutory holiday, chances are you’ll pay more than you otherwise would.

Other costs

Along with a truck or movers, there are a few other costs involved in the process. If you opt for a full-service move, supplies (like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap) will likely be included. Otherwise, you’ll have to collect these items on your own. While it’s possible to obtain them at a very low price, purchasing everything brand new can cost hundreds of dollars if you’re moving a full house.

Storage is another major consideration. Whether your closing dates don’t quite line up or you plan to move in stages, having a place to park your belongings for a while is helpful. U-Haul lockers start at $64.95 a month, while a company like XYZ Storage can provide options that begin at $25 a month.

You’ll also want to budget for utility fees. If the previous owners of your new home have prepaid, you’ll need to reimburse them during the closing process. There may be a reconnection fee involved if these services get shut off. Lastly, if you’ll opting for new providers, make sure you fully understand the rates they charge to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Don’t forget about WiFi!

Things to consider

The biggest thing to be aware of when you’re scheduling a move is timelines. From hiring movers to acquiring supplies to ensuring your utilities and WiFi are connected, give yourself plenty of time to ensure each step is completed when it needs to be.

Don’t forget to factor in the time it will take to settle on a reputable mover. Rates, levels of service, and customer satisfaction can vary considerably. Do the math for each company you’re considering, and read plenty of Google reviews to help ensure you make the right decision!

For over 36 years, our clients have trusted us to minimize risk, offer unbiased opinions, and ensure their best interests are served. Contact us today to talk about your needs, by emailing us at info@christensengroup.ca or calling us at 416-441-2888 ext. 772.