Moving Budget Calculator
Set up a budget for your move and get an overview of the total cost, split between movers, packing supplies, cleaning and other expenses.
How to use the moving budget calculator
- Fill in the expected cost of movers or a rental truck.
- Add costs for packing supplies, cleaning, deposit/rent overlap, and any other expenses.
- The calculator shows your total moving budget and how the costs break down between items.
How the moving budget is calculated
A move often involves more costs than you'd initially think. Beyond the transport itself, there are typically expenses for moving boxes and packing supplies, final cleaning of the old home, and sometimes a period where you have to pay a deposit or rent for two homes at once if the move-in dates don't overlap perfectly.
By listing all the items together, you get a realistic picture of what the move will actually cost, and can plan your finances ahead of time.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to hire movers?
The price depends on home size, distance and how much help you need. A small apartment might cost a few hundred dollars with a local moving company, while a large home or a long moving distance can cost significantly more.
Can I save money by moving myself?
Yes, renting a truck and doing the job yourself with help from friends and family is often cheaper than hiring movers. In exchange, you'll need to set aside more time and effort, and handle the heavy lifting and logistics yourself.
What does "deposit / overlap" mean in the budget?
This covers situations where you must pay a deposit for the new home before getting your deposit back from the old one, or where you must pay rent for both homes during a transition period because the move-in and move-out dates don't line up perfectly.