Calculating moving expenses

When you're budgeting for a long distance move and calculating moving expenses, it's important to take into consideration more than just the price on the moving company's quote. Depending on the type of moving service you choose, there could be other "soft costs", or costs that aren't technically attached to your move, but incurred as a result of your move— like hotel stays, eating out, etc.

Let me start by explaining that U-Pack is a "you pack, we drive" service. Fuel, taxes, standard liability coverage and the driver are included in U-Pack moving quotes. The price is determined by the linear footage your shipment occupies in the moving trailer, or the number of ReloCubes used.  And, transit time for U-Pack shipments averages 2-5 business days, thanks to ABF's efficient linehaul system.

Now that that's covered, let's talk about the things to consider when you're calculating moving expenses:

Determine how much space your shipment will occupy.  This is best accomplished using a room-by-room space estimator.  Keep in mind that each linear foot of household goods is estimated to weigh 450-500 pounds. That means a 5 ft. shipment would likely weigh somewhere between 2,250- 2,500 pounds.

Contact moving services for quotes and estimates. A moving company's prices can vary drastically. If you've begun checking some out, you've probably noticed. Sometimes the differences are due to service offerings; sometimes the market and some companies simply have a better price structure due to how they operate.  If you've already calculated linear footage and shipment weight, getting a more accurate moving estimate becomes simpler. Make certain your moving quote is based on the appropriate linear footage or weight. Although a slight over or underestimation is normal, if it's severe, the price difference could be dramatic.

Potential additions when you're calculating moving expenses:
• Packing and loading
• Moving supplies: packing tape, moving boxes, bubble wrap, mattress covers, furniture pads
• Moving Storage
• Extra fees for bulky items or specialty items (normally only with full service movers)
• Insurance or increased liability coverage

Soft moving expenses to consider:
• Fuel.  If you're considering truck rental, use the truck rental fuel calculator. If you're driving your own passenger vehicle, this is a great fuel calculator: http://www.fuelcostcalculator.com/
• Hotels. Multiply the number of nights by the per night cost, including taxes.
• Meals. Multiply the number of meals by the average cost per meal. Don't forget to add drinks and snacks along the way— these can add up quickly.

You can see that if you're moving cross-country, the faster your shipment arrives at your new home, the less cost you incur. For example, if the transit time is 5 business days, in comparison to 10 business days, your savings will likely be in excess of $600.  That can be a big deal…especially if you're on a moving budget.

If you have any questions about calculating moving expenses give us a call at 800-413-4799, leave a comment or use the "Ask the Experts" tool. We'll be happy to help!