How to Store Items When They are Being Transported

Posted on: 24 August 2017

Relocating from a home is not only stressful, it is also a very expensive affair, and one that must be adequately budgeted for to ensure that everything flows smoothly. You should start planning even months ahead of the moving date to give you time to set aside the necessary funds to secure a smooth move. This is true whether you're moving yourself or using a removal company. This article highlights important costs to factor in to ensure you're not caught off-guard once it's time to go.

Direct moving costs

These include the costs directly associated with the move, and they include:

1. Moving insurance – It is extremely important to have insurance protecting your move. You can start by looking at your homeowner's insurance. If not, talk to your removalists about getting coverage. For DIY moves, you can approach your home insurer to see whether an extra premium can be paid to cover the move.

2. Packaging materials – This only applies if you're moving yourself. Removals companies will often come with materials needed for the move and are prepared to help with furniture removals and other odd items. You should, however, have materials ready for any items you want to pack and unpack yourself, such as family valuables.

3. Mail redirection – You can avoid these fees by ensuring you fill out change of address forms at the post office with the effective date of your move. Otherwise, these fees will be charged each time mail is redirected until you change your address

4. Utility connection fees – You should also file your change of address with your utility providers, and you may or may not incur disconnection and reconnection fees. These include cable TV, telephone, water, electricity, gas, internet, etc. If you're moving far and changing providers, be sure to start research early to get the best prices and deals.

5. Interstate moves – Consider additional costs of flying/driving, interstate removals, car carriage, pet transportation and car re-registration among others costs not directly associated with close moves.

Other fees

1. Real estate fees – How much you'll spend depends on your unique situation. Most commonly, you'll have bond cleaning costs (to clean the place you're leaving from), any fees from the mortgage provider, real estate agent fees (selling and buying/renting the new place), conveyancing fees, stamp duty, home inspection fees, and a renovation contingency kitty (in case you need to fix something in the new house). Also, there's a charge for terminating your lease before it runs out.

2. Self-relocation costs – These are often forgotten, but they can add a pretty sum on long moves. Consider your driving/flying costs (to move your family), cost of lunch, dinner and refreshments, vehicle hire if applicable and accommodation if applicable (such as when flying interstate and waiting for your belongings to come by road).