Introduction
Moving to a new apartment can be both exciting and overwhelming. The thought of starting afresh in a new environment can be thrilling, but the process of moving can be stressful. One of the most critical factors to consider when planning a move is the cost. In this article, we will explore how much it costs to move an apartment locally, unpack the different expenses involved, and provide tips on how to cut down on those costs.
The Cost of Hiring a Moving Company
Hiring professional movers is one of the most significant expenses associated with relocating an apartment. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of hiring a moving company for a local move is $1,250. However, this cost can vary depending on the distance of your move, the number of items to be moved, and the time of the year. Note that these prices typically do not include additional services such as packing and unpacking boxes, which can significantly increase the overall cost.
Alternative Ways to Move
If hiring a moving company is out of your budget, several alternative ways can be used to move your apartment locally. One option is to rent a moving truck and do it yourself. For example, U-Haul charges between $19.95 and $29.95 per rental day for their trucks, depending on the size you select. This option can save significant amounts of money, but it also requires a lot of planning, packing, and lifting.
Another alternative for people on a tight budget is to hire labor-only movers. These types of moving companies specialize in loading and unloading containers or trucks, leaving you responsible for the packing and transporting. The typical cost of labor-only movers ranges from $80 to $100 per hour, depending on your location.
Additional Costs to Consider
Upfront costs involved in moving an apartment locally go beyond hiring a moving company or truck rental. There are several other expenses to plan for, such as packing supplies, utility transfers, and termination fees. The cost of packing supplies, such as boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape, can add up quickly, with 20-25 boxes costing between $35 to $50. Meanwhile, transferring utilities – cable, gas, water, electricity, and internet – to your new apartment may incur deposits or connection fees.
If you are breaking a lease, you may be required to pay a lease termination fee. These fees can cost between one to three months’ rent. Additionally, consider other ancillary costs, such as moving insurance, pet-sitting costs, and temporary storage costs, if needed.
Tips for Saving Money on Your Move
Moving an apartment is a costly affair, but there are ways to bring down the overall cost. Here are some tips to consider:
• Declutter before you move – The fewer items you move, the less you’ll pay for moving services.
• Ask friends or family for help – Enlist the help of friends or family members who are willing to help you pack or do some lifting.
• Compare moving quotes – Contact several moving companies and compare their costs before hiring one.
• Choose a mid-week or mid-month move – moving during peak seasons can be more expensive than off-season moves.
• Utilize free boxes – Check Craigslist or other online forums for free moving boxes instead of buying new ones.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how much it costs to move an apartment locally depends on several factors. The cost of hiring a moving company or doing it yourself varies, and additional expenses such as utility transfers, termination fees, and packing supplies can also inflate the total cost. It is crucial to budget accordingly, declutter before you move, and explore alternative ways to move if on a tight budget. By following these tips, you can reduce the overall cost and make your move a lot less stressful.