If you and your family are moving to another state, saving towards your move and resettlement is a necessary step. But how much do you need to save? Interstate moves are typically a lot more costly than local ones. On average, most long distance moves will be about $3500 or more. Your move may cost more or less than the average. Here are the expenses outside the move itself to consider when you start saving for a long distance move.
Start with two months of living expenses to account for the time it takes to move and any possible time off of work you may be taking. Be sure to include mortgage or rent, utilities, food, transportation, housing, insurance, and car payments and other bills.
Take the time to figure out one time or yearly fees or expenses you will have to pay once you arrive. You will need to get a new license, license plate and possibly a city sticker for your vehicles. In some cities or towns you may have to pay a fee to have water service turned on. You might also include estimated costs for improvements you intend to make to a new home; that should include the cost of permits for renovations and surveys for outdoor improvements.
Once you arrive at your new home you may wish to make some purchases to spruce it up. New furniture, houseplants, or decorations are all things that you may wish to buy to make your new house a home.
Finally, figure out the cost of the move itself. Moving to a new state will cost more than a local move and is based on the distance traveled and how many belongings you have. If you want to have your items professionally packed, you should budget for that, too. Costs will vary between movers, so you’ll want to get a couple of estimates to get an idea of price ranges before making a decision.
Moving to another state can be very expensive but it can also be a very exciting time. Start planning now to get the most out of your next long distance move. E.E. Ward is here for you every step of the way should you need our assistance.