What are the hidden costs of moving?

What are the Hidden Costs of Moving?

Moving home involves numerous expenses, many of which are straightforward. However, a range of less obvious 'hidden costs' can significantly increase the overall budget if not accounted for during the planning stage. Understanding these can help both individuals and removals professionals provide more accurate estimates and avoid surprises.

Packing Materials and Specialist Equipment

While some removals services include basic packing, the cost of robust packing materials often falls to the individual. This extends beyond just cardboard boxes. Consider the need for quality packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, protective blankets, mattress covers, and specialised wardrobe boxes. Investing in proper materials helps safeguard belongings, potentially preventing damage that would be more costly to rectify.

Specialist Item Handling

Certain items require specific handling, equipment, or expertise, incurring additional charges. Large, heavy, or delicate possessions like grand pianos, antique furniture, substantial artwork, or a large flat-screen TV may not be covered by standard removal quotes. Items such as a grandfather clock or a large aquarium often necessitate bespoke crating or specialist movers. Disconnecting and securing appliances like a washing machine, particularly with transit bolts, also requires attention.

Access Issues and Parking Permits

Difficult access at either the old or new property can lead to extra costs. This includes:

• Long carries: If the lorry cannot park directly outside the property and items must be carried a significant distance from the pavement.
• Stairs or lifts: Moving items up or down multiple flights of stairs or using a small, slow lift can add time and labour.
• Parking restrictions: Obtaining a temporary parking permit from the local council for the removals lorry is often necessary, especially in city centres or residential areas with restricted parking. Fines for illegal parking are certainly a cost to avoid.
• Shuttle services: In areas with very narrow roads or pedestrian zones, a smaller vehicle may be required to shuttle items from the property to the main removals lorry parked further away.

Insurance and Valuation

While many removal companies offer basic liability cover, this often provides Released Value Protection, which may not adequately cover the full replacement cost of valuable items. Opting for Full Value Protection or specialist moving insurance can incur additional premiums but offers greater peace of mind. It is also important to check if existing home insurance policies cover goods in transit.

Storage Solutions

If there is a gap between moving out of one property and into another, temporary storage may be required. Costs vary based on the duration, volume of goods, and type of storage, such as whether climate-controlled storage is needed for sensitive items. Remember to consider storage insurance and the proper way to pack items for long-term storage.

Cleaning and Disposal

Leaving a property spotless, particularly in a rental situation, often requires a deep clean. An end-of-tenancy clean, which might include carpet cleaning or professional oven cleaning, can be an unexpected expense. Similarly, disposing of unwanted furniture, appliances, or accumulated rubbish before or after the move can involve skip hire fees or council disposal charges. This is especially relevant for commercial moves where businesses need to get rid of old office furniture.

Utilities and Administrative Changes

Several administrative tasks come with associated costs:

• Mail redirection: The Post Office charges a fee to redirect mail to the new address.
• Utility transfers: While often free, ensure all final bills are settled. Some providers may charge a fee for early termination of contracts if not transferring services. Always remember to read meters and disconnect utilities at the appropriate time.
• New locks: Many people choose to change locks on a new property for security, which is a sensible but additional expense.

Disassembly and Reassembly

Furniture such as wardrobes, beds, or large shelving units may need to be disassembled for transport and reassembled at the new property. While some removal firms offer this as part of their service, others charge extra, particularly for complex items. Clarifying this in advance is crucial.

Contingency for Delays

Moving day rarely goes exactly to plan. Delays can occur due to traffic, unforeseen access issues, or issues with property keys. If a removals team is retained longer than initially quoted, or if a multi-day move extends, additional hourly or daily rates can apply. A contingency budget is always a wise inclusion.

Post-Move Essentials

Upon arrival at the new home, there are immediate needs that can incur costs. These might include takeaway food on the first night (when the kitchen is still in boxes), cleaning supplies, or items for childproofing the new home. While small, these add up and are often overlooked in the main moving budget.