Guide · US edition · Updated 2026-10-29

Moving Budget Checklist: Costs People Forget

Moving quotes cover the truck. The rest of the move is often just as expensive. List every line before you book.

Getting out

☐ Movers or truck rental, fuel and mileage
☐ Moving insurance / full value protection
☐ Packing supplies: boxes, tape, wrap, mattress bags
☐ Cleaning (or a cleaning service) for the old place
☐ Repairs to get the deposit back
☐ Storage, if dates don't line up
☐ Early lease termination fee, if any

Getting in

☐ First month's rent and security deposit, or closing costs
☐ Application and screening fees
☐ Overlap rent or mortgage (paying for two places)
☐ Utility deposits and connection fees
☐ Internet installation
☐ New keys or lock change

Travel

☐ Gas, hotel, meals on the road
☐ Pet travel and boarding
☐ Time off work

The first week

☐ Groceries to restock the pantry
☐ Cleaning supplies, shower curtain, light bulbs
☐ Curtains or blinds
☐ Furniture that didn't fit or didn't come
☐ Takeout (you will order it)

Tips for the crew

Tipping movers is common but optional. Decide in advance and keep cash separate.

Build a buffer

Add 10–15% on top for surprises. A long carry, stairs, or an extra hour can change the bill.

Track actual vs. planned

Write planned and actual costs in two columns. It also helps at tax time: most people can't deduct moving expenses, but active-duty military moving because of a permanent change of station generally can (IRS Publication 3).

General information, not tax or financial advice.

The Moving Day Binder's tracker has this budget with automatic totals and a column for actual costs.

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