This is it? You found the apartment of your dreams? You’re thrilled and excited about settling into your new home? Good for you! But don’t forget that moving often costs a lot of money. Here are a few tricks and tips to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Depending on your budget, you have two options:
A Low-cost Move
All of your Facebook friends have answered your call and are available to help you out on Your Moving Day. Fantastic! However, you should know that this cheap alternative may become stressful and complicated. Beyond the pleasure of being in good company, moving without the proper equipment for lifting heavy loads and without adequate coverage may prove to be more than inconvenient. Be careful not to hurt yourself when moving heavy furniture and make sure to take particular care when packing your belongings. Remember that, in case of breakage or damage, your belongings are not insured and their replacement may cost you dearly.
Pack and Protect Your Belongings
Some moving companies offer packing supplies at little cost. However, you can save by making daily rounds at your neighbourhood supermarket and businesses to get boxes and newspaper. Get adhesive tape to strengthen your boxes and your total cost will be close to nil!
Rent a Truck
If you don’t own a truck, you may of course rent one. For a 24-hour rental within a 50-km radius, rates usually range between $90 and $200, plus gas, mileage, and taxes. Plan ahead, because during high season prices sometimes double or even triple! If possible, avoid moving on 1 July and weekends.
Call on a Professional Moving Company
Calling on a recognized professional moving company may spare you aches and pains from moving. Avoid problems by taking the time to carefully choose your moving company. Get at least three different estimates and make sure that these include full insurance coverage.
During the peak season, between mid-May and mid-July, expect to pay a minimum of $500 to $600 for moving a two-bedroom (4 1/2) apartment locally. To that amount, based on an hourly rate, add travel time for the movers to get to your apartment and back to their business location.
If your new apartment is located more than 50 km from your old apartment, you may be charged extra. Remember to tell your moving company the distance between apartments, the floor number at both locations, and the approximate weight of your belongings to be moved. The moving company will then be able to put at your disposal the appropriate number of movers and give you a fairly detailed estimate. Always ask for a written estimate: It should include the detailed calculation of the total cost, as well as an in-depth description of your insurance coverage.
Be Well Prepared
To save time and money, pack and label all of your boxes before the arrival of the movers. Disassemble everything that can be disassembled and you will thus greatly reduce the number of billable hours!
Don’t forget…
Whether you choose the cheap alternative or do business with a moving company, you will still incur some costs.
- Some employers offer employees paid leave on moving day, but most of the time moving day is at your expense.
- Expect to pay $60 to $100 for moving-related expenses, such as address changes, as well as disconnection and connection charges for utilities (e.g. electricity, phone, gas, cable).
- Your first food bill, a new coat of paint, and decorating should also be considered.
It’s a long list, but don’t panic! If you’re well organized, you won’t need to empty your savings account on moving day!
Happy moving!
