10 hidden costs of moving a house

When planning a move, most people focus on the big expenses — hiring movers, renting trucks, or purchasing packing supplies. However, what often catches homeowners off guard are the hidden costs of moving.

From utility deposits and cleaning fees to storage and insurance, these sneaky expenses can quickly inflate your moving budget. Understanding them early helps you plan ahead and avoid financial surprises during your relocation.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the 10 hidden costs of moving a house that you should prepare for — along with practical tips from VanLinesMove, your trusted partner in affordable, transparent moving solutions.

Top 10 Hidden Costs of Moving a House

1. Packing Supplies and Equipment

The Cost That Adds Up Fast

Most people underestimate how much packing materials cost. While a few boxes might seem cheap, the full list — boxes, bubble wrap, tape, markers, and specialty packing for fragile items — can easily add up to hundreds of dollars.

What to Expect

• Standard moving boxes: $1–$3 each
• Wardrobe boxes: $10–$15 each
• Packing tape: $10 per roll
• Bubble wrap and packing paper: $20–$50

How to Save

Ask local grocery or retail stores for free boxes, or hire VanLinesMove, which provides professional-grade packing materials and services at competitive prices. Bundled moving packages often reduce the total cost.

2. Cleaning and Maintenance Fees

Leaving Your Old Home Clean

Before you hand over keys, most landlords (or buyers, if selling) expect the home to be spotless. Professional cleaning or small repairs can add unexpected expenses to your move.

Typical Cleaning Costs

• Deep cleaning service: $150–$400
• Carpet cleaning: $100–$250
• Minor repairs or paint touch-ups: $100–$500

Pro Tip

Schedule cleaning ahead of time to avoid rush fees. Some moving companies like VanLinesMove can coordinate cleaning services through local partners to streamline your transition.

3. Utility Setup and Disconnection Fees

Paying to Start and Stop Services

Utilities don’t transfer for free. Many providers charge setup, installation, or cancellation fees when you move.

Common Utility Fees

• Internet installation: $50–$100
• Electricity/gas setup: $30–$75
• Water/sewer transfer: $20–$50
• Cable or streaming service transfer: $25–$50

How to Reduce These Costs

Contact providers early to see if existing equipment or promotional offers apply at your new address. VanLinesMove recommends scheduling utility setups at least two weeks before moving to ensure smooth service activation.

4. Storage Fees During Transition

When Timing Doesn’t Align

If your new home isn’t ready yet or you’re downsizing, you might need short-term storage. Storage can be costly depending on the size, duration, and location.

Storage Costs to Expect

• Short-term (1 month): $100–$300
• Long-term (3+ months): $300–$600 or more
• Climate-controlled storage: +25–50% higher

Smart Alternative

Consider full-service moving with temporary storage included — VanLinesMove offers combined moving and storage solutions at lower bundled rates, reducing multiple vendor costs.

5. Insurance and Valuation Coverage

Protecting Your Belongings

Most moving companies provide basic valuation, not full insurance. This means you might get as little as 60 cents per pound for damaged items unless you upgrade your coverage.

Hidden Insurance Costs

• Full-value protection: $100–$600 depending on coverage
• Third-party moving insurance: varies based on declared value

Pro Tip

Ask your mover (like VanLinesMove) to explain valuation options clearly. Paying a little extra for better coverage can save you thousands in the event of damage or loss.

6. Travel, Lodging, and Food Expenses

What Happens Between Homes

For long-distance moves, travel expenses quickly become hidden costs — especially if you’re driving across states, staying overnight, or feeding a family on the go.

Common Travel Costs

• Gas/tolls: $100–$300+
• Hotel stays: $100–$200 per night
• Meals and snacks: $30–$100 per day per person

Cost-Saving Tip

Book hotels in advance and use moving route apps to find affordable stays. VanLinesMove offers route-planning assistance and can recommend cost-effective travel timelines.

7. Temporary Housing or Rent Overlap

The Double Payment Dilemma

Sometimes move-in and move-out dates don’t align, leading to overlapping rent or mortgage payments. This is one of the most overlooked moving costs.

Examples

• Paying rent for both apartments during transition
• Staying in a short-term rental or Airbnb
• Security deposits for new rentals

Solution

Coordinate move-in/out dates early and ask landlords about flexible leases. Working with VanLinesMove can help schedule your move precisely between homes to minimize overlap days.

8. Hidden Fees from Moving Companies

The Fine Print

Some movers quote a base price but add charges later — for stairs, long carries, fuel, or heavy items like pianos or safes.

Possible Extra Fees

• Stair or elevator carry: $50–$200
• Long carry from truck to door: $75–$150
• Heavy item surcharge: $100–$500
• Fuel or mileage fee: $50–$250

How to Avoid It

Ask for a binding estimate in writing. VanLinesMove provides transparent quotes upfront, ensuring no hidden surprises on moving day.

9. Lost Time and Missed Work

The Value of Time

Taking time off work or delaying business operations can be a major indirect cost of moving. Many people overlook how much income they lose during relocation.

Average Lost Income

If you take 2–3 days off work, that’s potentially hundreds of dollars gone — plus the productivity loss from stress and exhaustion.

Smart Strategy

Plan your move over weekends or holidays when possible. Professional movers can handle logistics quickly, minimizing downtime. VanLinesMove offers flexible scheduling, including evening or weekend moves.

10. Post-Move Purchases and Settling-In Costs

The Expenses That Sneak In After the Move

Once you’ve moved in, new expenses often appear — furniture for new spaces, curtains, cleaning supplies, or even utility deposits.

Common Post-Move Costs

• Furniture or décor updates: $200–$1,000
• New locks and safety devices: $50–$300
• Groceries and restocking essentials: $150–$400

Pro Tip

Budget an extra 10–15% of your total moving cost for post-move expenses. With VanLinesMove, you’ll know your moving costs upfront, leaving room in your budget for these finishing touches.

Bonus Tip: Always Budget a Cushion

Even with perfect planning, unexpected costs happen — weather delays, extra labor hours, or sudden equipment needs. Setting aside a 10–20% buffer can prevent last-minute stress.

Example:

If your moving budget is $5,000, save at least $500–$1,000 extra for unforeseen expenses.

Avoid Hidden Costs with VanLinesMove

At VanLinesMove, transparency is our priority. We believe that moving shouldn’t come with hidden fees or confusing fine print. Our pricing is clear, honest, and customized to your needs — so you always know exactly what you’re paying for.

Our services include:

• Free detailed quotes with no surprises
• All-inclusive pricing (fuel, labor, mileage, and basic insurance)
• Packing, loading, and storage options
• Expert long-distance coordination

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, VanLinesMove ensures a stress-free, budget-friendly relocation.

Conclusion

Moving a house isn’t just about packing and transportation — it’s a financial commitment that involves dozens of small, often-hidden costs. By planning for these expenses in advance, you can protect your budget and make better decisions along the way.

The key is transparency and preparation. Know what to expect, read your estimates carefully, and choose movers who value honesty over hidden fees.

When you move with VanLinesMove, you get exactly that — reliable service, clear pricing, and a moving experience that’s efficient, affordable, and worry-free.

Ready to plan your next move without surprises? Visit VanLinesMove.com for your free estimate today.

💬  FAQs

1. What are the most common hidden costs of moving?

Hidden costs often include utility setup fees, cleaning expenses, packing materials, and travel costs. These small charges can add up quickly if not planned for.

2. How can I avoid hidden moving fees?

Request a binding estimate from your mover, read the contract carefully, and clarify any additional charges for stairs, long carries, or fuel.

3. Is moving insurance worth it?

Yes. Moving insurance or full-value protection covers your belongings if they’re lost or damaged during transit, saving you from potential financial loss.

4. Does VanLinesMove include all costs upfront?

Absolutely! VanLinesMove provides clear, itemized quotes covering packing, labor, fuel, and transport, ensuring you know your exact moving cost from day one.