Hidden Costs in
Moving
The first step in a do-it-yourself
move is renting a truck. To determine what size truck you need, the
rental firm will ask how many rooms you're moving - 5 rooms would
mean a 24 foot truck, more or less. If you're experienced at loading
and packing a truck, you'll be fine. Otherwise,you might have to add
on a trailer. If you're planning on turning in your truck at a location
other than where you rented it, you'll probably have to pay a special
drop-off charge. Depending upon where you're going, it could add hundreds
of dollars to the rental cost. Your auto may not be able to be able
to be fitted with a hitch and your transmission may suffer due to
pulling a heavy trailer.
Did the truck rental firm tell
you you'd get 10 miles to the gallon? They're right - if the truck
is empty. But once it's filled with your belongings, your mileage
could be as little as 5 miles per gallon. If the truck needs repairs
on the road, they'll be paid for by the rental firm - when you turn
the truck in. So be sure to have extra cash/credit on hand to cover
any possible emergencies.
To make things easier, and safer,
you'll want to rent some moving equipment . Start with a hand truck
- you'll need to move heavy items like your refrigerator and washing
machine. Add pads to protect your furniture - you'll need at least
twenty per room. Finish up with straps, tie-off ropes and a heavy
padlock to keep everything secure in the truck. If you're towing a
car, you'll also need to rent a tow bar. Don't place valuables in
your auto or auto trunk, such as computers as they will be easy targets
for a thief or temperature problems may occur.
The transit insurance you buy
from the rental firm covers liability on the truck and its contents
- but only if the damage is caused by a fault in the truck itself.
Cargo insurance, which covers your belongings in transit, is separate.
And it isn't usually a part of your homeowner's policy either. Check
with your insurance agent before you move, and make sure you've got
the necessary coverage.
Odds are you and your spouse
can't handle all the moving and loading yourselves. You might be able
to get a few friends to help, but how hard do you really want to push
them? Hiring a couple of men is probably the best idea. Find out if
they have a minimum charge (often higher on weekends and holidays)
and make sure they know what they're doing. Just to be on the safe
side, check that your insurance covers any damage or injury during
the move - regardless of who is involved.
To
Calculate the Cost of Moving Yourself.
(888) 676-4585
(415) 454-9700
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