First of all, budget for your moving truck. U-Haul is an option, but know that they are typically the most expensive. Try Budget or a lesser known company for cheaper rates. Check rates online or over the phone. They vary greatly and for large moves can cost up to $1000.00, sometimes more. So don't neglect to plan for this, or you'll get a nasty surprise come moving day.
Budget for gas, for your moving truck and your vehicles. The bigger the move, the more you should budget. Don't leave it to chance, you'll feel better knowing how much it will cost.
Instead of just finding old cardboard boxes, consider investing in plastic totes or cloth shelving boxes/drawers that you can find at LOWES or other home improvement stores. These will last you a lifetime and instead of having to throw them away, they can work for you in your new home, keeping you organized. Budget at least $100.00 for these, and your move will go more smoothly.
Check into whether or not you will need to put a deposit down on your utilities. Some companies do require this, and the regulations vary from state to state. Know in advance if you'll need to put down a deposit and prevent a monetary surprise that could really throw you off.
Budget for your first month of groceries. As we all know, when you move, you'll need to fill that fridge. The longer you take to fill the fridge, the more you'll be spending on pizza and chinese as you unpack. Budget at least a hundred for milk, fruit, vegetables, snacks, and a couple of home-cooked meals during your first week.
Don't forget your monthly bills that will go with you. Think about a car payment, insurance, loans, etc.
Set aside a small amount for unplanned circumstances, such as a flat tire or an unexpected hotel stay. As we all know, we should expect the unexpected during a move.
As always, you should either pay your first month's rent and deposit in advance, if you're moving to an apartment. Or have the terms of your mortgage and moving date all figured before you set out on the road. No surprises in this area, otherwise, you could be paying way more for hotels than you bargained for.
Figure all of these costs in advance, even if you've overestimated, your trip will be far more peaceful and much less stressful!
