Moving into your new home can be both exciting and stressful at the same time. How much money should you save before moving? While moving costs vary, there are a few major factors that will help determine how much your move will affect your bank account.

Summer time is the prime season for moving, and you’ll likely end up paying more to rent a truck or hire movers during the warmest months of the year. If you have the flexibility, move during an off-peak season to save money.

Packing supplies
Start collecting packing materials as soon as possible. Ask neighbors and friends, and you may even be able to get free boxes at your workplace or local grocery store. If you do need to purchase items like boxes, bubble wrap and packing tape, be realistic about the number you need to avoid costly miscalculations. Purchase from companies like U-Haul as they buy back any unused boxes.

Recycle
Moving is the perfect time to get rid of all the stuff that you rarely use. Hosting a garage sale prior to your move, can save you time, as well as provide cash to offset some of your moving costs.

Leaving your Home
Costs that need to be factored in are cleaning and repairs. You’ll save money by doing some or all of the work yourself. If you find that your home needs a repair that you can’t do on your own, talk to your neighbors and friends. They can be a good source of information regarding local handymen or contractors who can make major repairs.

Professional Movers
Get quotes and check online reviews of at least three different moving companies, making sure you get the best rate. Check with your homeowners or rental insurance to see if they provide moving insurance, in the event that you require additional insurance for your belongings. Getting insurance through your current provider is often less expensive than going through a third party.

DIY Move
Rates vary on a truck rental based on the time you need it for, distance travelled, size and amount of items to be moved.

Other Costs
On the day of the move you will most likely be eating on the go, or buying food and drinks for friends and family that are helping you.
Utilities, cable, and Internet service set up can cost both time and money. Depending on your credit score, you may need to make a deposit, so keep this in mind when planning your moving budget. Buying new furniture or other items for your home will need to be added as well.
If you plan to use a storage facility, remember to include that in your budget too.

Walking through your moving process from start to finish and planning for what you need at least a month in advance will leave room for unexpected costs. Once you’ve gone through all the items on your list, you will have a good idea of how much moving is going to cost.