How Much Does A Self-Move Cost?
Dec 29, 2022
A DIY or self-move is one of the best options when you are on a tight budget. Saving costs is difficult because you need to consider many factors when moving out of home.
It is important to include all the possible moving expenses and create a rough budget if you don’t want to take a toll on your pocket. There is no denying that hiring
professional removalists Brisbane is expensive, but they will transit your possessions with utmost safety.
So, if you decide to do everything on your own, keep the following expenses in mind while preparing an estimated moving budget. This will give you a better idea and make things transparent when making a final decision for your next home relocation.
Let’s Get Started!
1. Expenses on Packing Supplies/Materials
One of the most overlooked things when planning a DIY move expense is packing supplies and moving boxes. Many people hire a full-moving service where professionals bring all the necessary supplies to pack your possessions.
Since you are doing it on your own, make sure you prepare a list of materials you need for your household belongings. Some of the common supplies you need are:
- Packing paper
- Packing tape
- Plastic bags/bins
- Speciality boxes
- Plastic Wrap
- Foam Peanuts
- Markers
- Blankets, etc
It is important to arrange supplies to
pack your essential bag which includes food, a first-aid box, etc. De-clutter your household items and pack only those you need at a new home. Do not count items you no longer need. This will save you money when purchasing packing materials.
You can also look for places where you can get free boxes. This includes a grocery store, liquor shops, Facebook marketplace, etc.
2. Rental Moving Equipment
Lifting and moving large appliances, furniture, and heavy boxes can lead to a serious personal injury, such as shoulder dislocation, knee or
back injury, etc. Professional removalists in Brisbane always come fully equipped with all the necessary tools to lift heavy and bulky items without any stress.
You need to rent a furniture dolly with a flat base with four wheels. Apart from this, arrange hand trucks, straps, loading ramps and trailers. You can rent equipment from a local company or truck rental company.
The rental costs of moving equipment may vary from company to company. But, on average, a hand truck will likely cost around $60 to $80 per week.
3. Rental Truck Or Van
According to experts, DIY moves give you more control over the process. However, you need to arrange the right moving truck size after evaluating your packed, boxed and furniture items. You may need to spend approx $700 to $2,500 for a rental moving truck. The size depends on the number of your belongings and their weight.
Here is a guide to help you find the right size of a moving transport:
- You need 10 to 16 ft. moving truck for a 1-room apartment
- 12 to 22 ft. vehicle is ideal for 2-bedroom
- 22 to 26 ft truck for 5-room house
It can be quite expensive because there is always a risk of accidents, fire and theft if you move belongings on your own. That’s why people look for a full-moving company in Brisbane that can help them save time and energy and give them peace of mind.
4. Costs of Moving Containers
Have you ever heard of moving containers? They are in trend these days. If you are moving on your own, opt for this option. You can pay depending on the distance of your move and the space you need.
Make sure you pack and
lift heavy objects on your own and load them onto the container. It is super easy to schedule a pick-up and delivery date online.
5. Moving Help or Assistance
Of course, you have good friends and relatives who can help you move. But, sometimes, you don’t get volunteers for an immediate home relocation. In such a scenario, you can hire a labour-only moving service to save money. They can load and unload your large and heavy household items. You will be charged by the hour. So, checking and comparing different rates before making the final decision is good.
6. Moving Insurance
Moving or transit insurance is one important thing that protects your belongings against potential risks, such as theft, damage, fire, accident etc. So, make sure you purchase the right policy to cover the damage and replacement costs.
Of course, moving companies over insurance or valuation options won’t give complete coverage. Contact an insurance company and get third-party transit insurance.
7. Miscellaneous Costs
This includes
prices of fuel, storage fees, road taxes, cleaning services, food, etc. Make sure you add these costs to your budget for a self-move.
Conclusion
Preparing for a self-move is challenging because you have to manage everything on your own. These are the factors that can determine the cost of self-relocation. You can also book affordable removalists Brisbane and save your time and energy.
