Often Overlooked Costs of Moving

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

Pay Attention to the Fine Print

When you are getting quotes from moving companies in Houston, make certain and read the fine print. You need to have a decent understanding of everything that is contained in the quotes so that you can make certain you are comparing like services. If there might be something that you don’t know, do not be nervous to ask questions. If you believe a service is missing from the estimate, it is best to bring that to the moving company’s attention now than be surprised later due to an additional charge.

· If you have awkward or bulky things which may need special handling, like a four-wheeler, hot tub or baby grand piano, you’ll need to bring that to the professional mover’s attention so that all special charges can be included in your quote.

· Similarly, be aware that a number of items, like gas appliances and front-loading washing machines, likely need a third-party company to unhook the item at your current home and prepare it for shipping and then hook it back up at your new home.

· In the event there is not a lot of clearance on your street which makes the moving van too large to fit, the moving company in Houston will likely need to shuttle your possessions to the truck using a smaller truck. There is normally an additional charge for this service, so it is vital to discuss it when you are getting your quotes.

· You are going to have lots of boxes to deal with after unpacking, so check to see if an empty box pick up is incorporated in your quote or if that would be an extra cost.

Road Tripping to the New Home

If you are moving a longer distance that requires a road trip to get to your new residence, you will need to think about travel expenses. Make sure to not only include money for a hotel room, but additionally add in things like food, tolls, gas, and emergencies which could come up while you’re travelling to your new house.

Change of Plans

Occasionally life happens and your best made plans fall apart. In the event the paperwork for the closing of your new residence gets delayed or the renovations which you had planned to conclude before move in day go off track, you might need storage for your stuff. Communicate with your moving company in Houston as early on as you can with regards to the setback and discuss options with them. In the event the delivery only needs to be pushed out a day or two, your possessions could be able to be stored on the trailer they are already on. On the other hand, in the event it will be several weeks or even months before you will be ready to have your belongings delivered, your things will likely need to be placed into storage at a nearby warehouse. Take into consideration that the longer your things are in storage, the more the extra cost will be.

The Bottom Line

Yes, moving to a new residence might be challenging. Yes, unplanned costs crop up. But, when you do your research in advance and budget properly, you will be a step ahead if something unexpected happens.