Preparing a relocation budget

Relocation means that you have to part with some of your hard-earned money. You can slice and split costs all you want – moving is going to cost. Instead, you should try your best to prepare for the long relocation. This article is here to help you when you’re preparing a relocation budget. Hopefully, we can work those things through together, so you won’t end up low on money, or, even worse, out of it.

When preparing a relocation budget, the first thing you need is a stable income

Doesn’t matter where the income comes from. Of course, it’s much easier when you have a long-term career. But if you have fallen into a career gap, then you probably know that it’s not the best idea to sit around idly. You should have at least a temporary job so you could harness some savings before you start preparing a relocation budget. Even a modest sum set aside every month will be of great help when you’re, for example, covering insurance costs (and of course you will need insurance!).

Try to do as much as you can by yourself

Most moving companies charge their services separately. Here’s a list of things that might cost you extra – however, this depends on the market, and, in particular, on the moving company itself:

• Relocation of heavy things – wardrobes, shelves, beds, couches;
• Packing and labeling;
• Fine arts transportation;

There is other stuff that might have you charged extra. However, you should keep in mind that you can do some of it yourself so you won’t have to pay as much. For example, you can take the boxes cheaply (or even free) from your local supermarket and pack the stuff by yourself. If you’re bulky and strong, you can also haul all the stuff yourself – however, you can get hurt very easily, so watch your step. Coming to think of it…

Either way, pack the small stuff yourself

It’s understandable if you don’t want to lug that heavy wardrobe downstairs. It can get you to a hospital quick enough. However, what you CAN do, is load the small stuff by yourself. Now, there’s plenty of small stuff to go around a house, and it includes books, kitchen appliances, hygiene products… you name it. The point is, it doesn’t take a Hulk to move these. You can do it by yourself without straining your back, and you will save money.

When preparing a relocation budget, pick the right destination

This can help you offset some costs. A right part of town can mean less commuting, cheaper childcare (if you have kids), better insurance offers and lower taxes. All of these can help you in the long run. If it’s even a tiny bit closer to your original home, it’s all better, ‘cause your company may charge per kilometer. This is a good way to save costs in the long run too.

When preparing a relocation budget, you should always have in mind your income after you move, and there’s a simple reason for that – you could take a loan. No, not from the bank. Borrow from your friend or family member; however, make sure that you give it back once you’re done. This way, you can plan ahead, while also making sure that your relocation is quick and painless (for your wallet, of course).

Do it yourself

Alright, you’ve rented a huge van or maybe you’re the owner of one. All you have to do is pack the stuff, go to your next destination and unload it. What could possibly go wrong? Well, hate to say it, but everything. Relocation is indeed cheaper when you’re doing it only using your car and two strong arms, however, there are things to watch out for:

• You’re most likely not a driver by profession. And even if you were, you should still take rests and breaks and shouldn’t drive for a prolonged period of time. Something bad could happen to your stuff, or, even worse, to you;
• It’s very tiring and frustrating. As we said, driving for a long time can tire a man very quickly. It’s even harder to pack the whole house into order when you’re done. So, you could break the DIY rule and hire your partner or some friends and help speed up the process. Don’t forget to reward your friends with some popcorn, beer and potato chips when you’re done moving. How will your reward your spouse for his/her help is up to you two;
• Don’t try to save on time by flooring it. Speeding is a traffic violation. Also, fast-moving vehicles chug way more fuel than ones moving at moderate speed. Don’t try to cut your costs by slamming the pedal – drive moderately and save on fuel.

Get rid of the junk you don’t need when preparing a relocation budget

Alright, this one is perfectly clear. You need to find out what you don’t need. It’s important to do this because you might have stuff around the house that might fall into one of these two categories:

1. Junk – you don’t need it so throw it away. We’re talking about stuff such as old rugs, old clothes, and other things unsuitable for human use, and
2. Stuff that is old, but still useful – just not to you. If you can, do a garage sale for a quick buck. If not, put it on Amazon if you still have some time before moving.

These will offset moving costs by a large amount. If all else fails, do a giveaway among your friends – they might actually call dibs on it and help you out of gratitude. You can donate them to your homeless shelter. If you decide to sell or auction it, the moving cost offset is double – you have fewer things to move and the cash will help you during the move.