Common Hidden Moving Costs And How To Avoid Them
Relocating a home often takes a toll on the pocket due to a lack of logistical planning, realistic budgeting and management skills. Other than upfront removal fees and unavoidable expenses, there are many hidden costs that may surprise you when outsourcing a professional service.
There is no denying that a well planned and coordinated move ensures the safety of valuable household belongings, but unexpected expenses in the name of additional services, accessibility issues, storage fees or long hauls, can’t be overlooked. Whether moving across the street in Canberra or a new state, you should focus on making smart monetary decisions for an economically efficient experience.
In this guide, we’ll unveil some common hidden moving costs and practical ways to avoid them. Ensure you do stringent research when hiring expert Removalists Canberra for your precious belongings and time efficient delivery.
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]Packing is one of the most crucial tasks before relocating, and the cost of high quality supplies can burn a hole in your pocket. Excessive use of boxes, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, tape and marks can add up quickly to your overall expenses.
How to Fix It:
To cut costs, ensure you create a complete inventory of your items and get rid of items you no longer need. This will help you arrange the required quantity of supplies. Moreover, you can also collect free boxes from the local supermarket or thrift stores. Using blankets, dresser drawers, suitcases, duffel bags, etc., to pack your belongings can also help you reduce moving expenses. This can also help reduce landfill waste, promoting a greener and better environment.
Of course, professional removalists Canberra can keep your possessions intact throughout the journey, but may charge extra for services like packing and moving specialty items, disassembly/reassembly of large furniture, appliance servicing, packing of antiques, etc.
Thus, it is always good to clarify your doubts and get a written quote to check what services are included and what incur extra costs. The standard service may include disassembling and reassembling furniture. It is important to know what is quoted separately in the final bill of lading, as this can help you save extra money.
This is one of the most common hidden charges that may surprise you on the final moving day. It is often charged when movers have to carry heavy boxes and items a long distance from your home to the moving truck. They could ask for extra fees for the additional time and labour involved in the process.
To save your hard earned money, make sure you book a special parking spot for the moving truck close to your main door on moving day. Do the same at your new residence.
Tip: Get a loading zone permit to park a moving truck near your residence, especially if you live in an area with stringent parking restrictions.
Some moving service providers include fuel expenses in their final estimates, while others don’t mention hidden charges, as they mention charges depending on the distance and current fuel prices.
If you are moving for the first time and booking a right sized moving truck, cross check the daily gas rate and ensure everything is written on the quote. This will help you create a proper budget before making the final decision. You can also ask questions to get better clarity.
In peak season or times, you’ll need to pay more to book the most professional moving service in your area. During busy seasons and on weekends, some companies may charge higher rates than written estimates due to increased demand.
If you have been planning to relocate, choose the moving date wisely. It is better to book in the mid month or weekdays, as movers have more flexibility and may offer cheaper rates. Booking early morning slots can also help you save moving expenses.
Standard insurance coverage can be limited but is always included with renowned moving companies. However, if you want to get full coverage against the damage of your household items and expensive antiques, you’ll need to pay extra for third party insurance. It is good to understand about moving insurance options and make a well informed decision for the sake of your precious possessions.
Some moving companies charge hourly rates. Delays due to weather, traffic, and slow packing can add up to your overall expenses.
How to Avoid: It is good to prepare a complete moving checklist and adhere to the timeline to avoid last minute tasks. Also, choose off peak days to avoid heavy traffic jams.
If your new home isn’t ready, you need a temporary option to store your household items. Unfortunately, many companies charge too high storage fees based on the duration and amount of space required.
Ensure you create a proper plan for all your household items when downsizing a home and arrange a short-term storage space to save money. To avoid unexpected moving costs, contact the best removalists Canberra for a transparent pricing policy.
These are some of the most common hidden moving costs that can put a hole in your pocket. Ensure you address these unanticipated expenses and create a proper moving plan to avoid them without risking your precious household belongings.
