People move across the country for many reasons. Some of the most common include a new job, giving a fresh start to their life, and living closer to friends and family. A cross-country move can open up or create a lot of opportunities. However, it can also come with a lot of expenses. You do not realize many of the hidden expenses until they pop up or you have already moved.
Here is a look at the hidden costs often associated with cross-country moves that you should be prepared for.
- Hidden Charges by Moving Companies
When hiring a professional mover, make sure to get a quote in writing detailing all the expenses. If not, there is a good chance that you may have to pay different types of hidden fees. This can include:
- Long Carry Fees: Movers can charge this for long-distance moves.
- Elevator or Stair Fees: If the move requires the use of elevators or stairs, the mover can charge this extra fee due to the additional time and effort needed.
- Bulky Item Fees: If you have heavy or large items such as safes and pianos, your moving company may add a bulky items fee to your invoice.
Additional hidden charges can include assembly and disassembly fees and shuttle fees. Make sure to have all kinds of charges mentioned on the quote before signing the contract.
- Valuation & Liability Costs
Whether it is a small-distance or long-distance move, you will have to take steps to protect your belongings. There are different valuation options and you should understand them:
- Basic coverage for minimal protection
- Full value protection covering the actual value of your items
- Additional valuation coverage based on the value of your possessions
- Utility Transfers
When you move across the country, you will also have to transfer your utilities and services. There are two forms of hidden costs that you may not account for before your moving process begins:
- Installation & Activation Fees: You will have to set up new utilities and services at your new place. This will require paying installation and new activation fees.
- Early Termination Fees: You are highly likely to terminate your utility or service contracts before their term ends. This can attract an early termination fee at your current location.
- Unexpected Travel Expenses
When you are moving, you can expect different types of travel expenses. Long-distance moves not only increase the amount but also the types of expenses involved. This includes lodging, meals, tolls, and parking fees.
How to Minimize or Avoid Hidden Costs?
You should follow a proactive approach to managing your moving costs.
- Get detailed quotes from movers. The estimates should all be in writing and include an elaborate breakdown of all extra fees. Choose a company that offers upfront, clear quotes without any hidden costs.
- Declutter your home before moving. When you declutter and reduce the number of items being transported, your moving costs can come down.
- Consider packing yourself or choosing more cost-effective packing services. You can opt for professional packing for only valuable and fragile items.
- Plan your cross-country move during off-peak periods. This can help you avoid premium rates.
- Study different insurance and make the right choice. Compare different options and costs while ensuring your items are properly protected without having to overspend.
- Coordinate your utility and service shut-off and activation dates to avoid extra fees.
- When it comes to travel expenses, budget for the potential costs and use planning tools to determine the optimal routes and accommodations.
Since you have a long-distance move on hand, chances are you may also require storage services. Check different options and choose the most cost-effective one. So, these are some of the common hidden cost factors involved in cross-country moves. With proper research, you can find the perfect solutions to avoid or minimize most of these costs.
