Unexpected Moving Costs: 20+ Hidden Fees (and How to Avoid Them)
Fact Checked by: Even if you’ve mapped out your budget, unexpected moving costs have a way of sneaking up and throwing your plans off balance.Surprise expenses are one of the biggest pain points for people planning a move.
We’re breaking down the most common hidden fees to give you a clear path to keep your move and your budget under control.
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Why moving costs more than you think
Even if you score a great deal on a moving company, it’s easy for costs to balloon beyond your original quote. Last-minute packing supplies, utility hookups, parking permits, or destination fees at your new place can add up quickly if you’re not ready for them.
Planning ahead for unexpected moving costs protects both your sanity and your wallet. Here’s what you should watch out for.
Top hidden and unexpected moving costs
Many people overlook at least a few of these expenses. Use this table as a resource to help you budget for your move. (Estimates vary by season, distance, and inventory.)
| Cost category | What it is | When it applies | Estimated cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Packing materials & supplies | Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, shrink wrap, markers | If you pack yourself or need extra protection | $100–$350+ for a 2–3 bedroom home |
| Professional cleaning | Move-out or move-in cleaning services | Required by landlords, for security deposits, or peace of mind | $100–$400 per cleaning |
| Fuel, gas, and travel expenses | Tolls, mileage, gas, lodging, meals | Long-distance and DIY moves | $50–$500+ (varies by distance) |
| Moving insurance & liability coverage | Extra protection for your belongings | Valuables, cross-country, or high-risk moves | $100–$800+ depending on coverage |
| Storage unit rental | Temporary or long-term storage | Between homes or downsizing | $50–$300/month |
| Utility hookup/transfer fees | Electric, gas, water, internet, cable, trash | New utility accounts or service transfers | $50–$300 total |
| Parking permits/fees | City permits or meter rental for moving truck | Urban moves or apartments with limited parking | $20–$150 per permit |
| Security deposits | Deposits for rentals, utilities, or pet fees | Renting a new place | One month’s rent or $100–$500 for utilities |
| First month’s groceries/essentials | Restocking fridge, pantry, cleaning supplies | Any move, especially long-distance | $150–$400 |
| New household items | Furniture, appliances, window treatments | Replacing lost, damaged, or outdated items | $200–$2,500+ (depends on needs) |
| Tips/gratuities for movers | Cash tips for professional movers | Full-service moves or heavy lifting | $20–$60 per mover (or 5–10% of total cost) |
| Destination fees | Stairs, elevators, long carry, shuttle service | If access to your home is tricky | $75–$500+ (see more below) |
Some of these costs can catch you off guard. Here’s a closer look at the most common unexpected expenses — plus how real people managed them:
Packing materials and supplies
Even if you’re packing on your own, supplies like sturdy boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and specialty containers add up fast. Underestimating how much you need is a classic mistake, and it’s easy to make. Use our moving box calculator to get the right number.
“I underestimated the number of boxes I’d have, which increased the final cost. I also had to pay extra for a shuttle to my new home.”
Professional cleaning
If your lease requires a deep clean or you want your new place to feel fresh, professional cleaning services are often worth it, but they’re rarely included in moving quotes.
Fuel, gas, and travel expenses
Driving a rental truck? Don’t overlook fuel, tolls, hotel stays, and meals on the road. These can turn a “cheap” DIY move into a much bigger expense than you planned. Third-party labor costs can also be steeper than you realize.
“Third-party labor cost more than expected after taking longer to pack up, but I had no issues with U-Pack.”
Moving insurance and liability coverage
Basic coverage rarely covers the full value of your belongings. If you have valuable items or you’re moving long-distance, consider upgrading your insurance with third-party coverage.
Storage unit rental
Sometimes you need storage between homes or if your move is delayed. Storage fees can sneak up on you, especially if you need to rent a van to access your stuff.
Check out our top picks for moving and storage.
Utility hookup and transfer fees
Activating or transferring utilities at your new home often comes with service fees or deposits. Internet and cable setup charges can be easy to overlook.
Parking permits and fees
Urban moves almost always require permits for moving trucks or containers. Skipping this step can mean tickets or not being able to unload at all.
“My apartment wouldn’t allow the container in the parking lot, and the city wouldn’t grant a permit to park it on the street. I had to hire local movers to pick up my things at the U-Haul terminal and deliver them, which was a surprise extra cost.”
Destination fees: Stairs, elevators, long carry, and shuttle service
If the moving truck can’t park right outside your new home, expect extra charges for long carries, stairs, elevator use, or shuttle services. These fees add up fast, especially for apartments or city moves.
Tips and gratuities for movers
Professional movers work hard, and tipping is customary. Be sure to factor this into your budget.
Security deposits and new household items
Don’t forget about deposits for rentals and utilities or the cost of restocking groceries and essentials for your new place. Many people also end up buying new furniture or appliances after a move.
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Average moving cost estimates
Moving costs vary widely, but here are some national averages based on our 2025 data to help you plan:
| Move type | Average cost | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Local move (under 100 miles) | $800 – $2,500 | Hourly rate for two movers and a truck; supplies extra |
| Long-distance move (100–1,000 miles) | $2,200 – $7,500+ | Based on weight, distance, and services |
| Cross-country move (1,000+ miles) | $4,000 – $10,000+ | Full-service, includes loading, transport, unloading |
Keep in mind: These averages rarely include packing, storage, insurance, or destination fees. Always get a detailed, itemized quote.
How to build a realistic moving budget
Building a solid moving budget takes a little planning, but it can save you stress (and cash) down the road. Here’s how to cover your bases:
- List all potential costs: Reference the table above and add any unique needs, like pet movers or car shipping.
- Get detailed quotes: Insist on itemized estimates from moving companies and ask about every possible extra fee.
- Budget for supplies: Price out boxes, tape, and specialty packing materials for your home’s size.
- Factor in cleaning and repairs: Consider whether you’ll need professional cleaning or small repairs for your old place.
- Include travel and lodging: Especially important if you’re moving far or driving a rental truck.
- Don’t forget insurance and tips: Check what your mover provides and what you might need to add for peace of mind.
- Build in a buffer: Add 10–20% to your total for surprise expenses or last-minute changes.
How to avoid or minimize unexpected moving costs
While you can’t control everything, a little planning can help you dodge most surprise fees. Here’s what works best:
- Get everything in writing: Ask for itemized quotes, including potential access fees, fuel surcharges, and storage.
- Ask the right questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about long carries, stairs, elevators, and shuttle requirements.
- Reserve parking, elevators, and loading docks: This is especially important for apartments and city moves.
- DIY what you can: Packing and cleaning yourself can save serious cash.
- Negotiate and shop around: Get multiple quotes and negotiate terms or timing when possible.
- Communicate proactively: Talk to your property manager, utility companies, and your mover about logistics and timing.
- Check for insurance gaps: Compare the mover’s coverage with your own policy and consider third-party insurance if needed.
- Use trusted resources: The FMCSA’s Protect Your Move page has tips for avoiding moving scams and hidden fees.
FAQs
How can I avoid hidden moving costs?
What is the average cost of a move?
What questions should I ask my moving company?
Are tips for movers expected, and how much?
Summary checklist: Don’t miss these unexpected moving costs
Keep this checklist on hand while you plan your move to avoid surprise expenses:
- Packing materials: Boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and specialty crates can add up quickly.
- Professional cleaning: Move-out or move-in cleaning services may be required by your landlord or just for peace of mind.
- Fuel, tolls, lodging, and meals: These can be major expenses for DIY or long-distance moves.
- Moving insurance and extra coverage: Make sure your belongings are protected beyond basic coverage.
- Storage unit rental: Short- or long-term storage fees are easy to overlook.
- Utility connection or transfer fees: Setup charges for electric, internet, and other services.
- Parking permits and city fees: Often necessary for urban or apartment moves.
- Security deposits: For rentals, utilities, or pets at your new place.
- First groceries/restocking essentials: Restocking your kitchen and household basics can be a big first-month cost.
- New furniture, appliances, or household items: Many people end up replacing or adding items after moving.
- Tips or gratuities for movers: Typically $20–$60 per mover.
- Destination fees: Fees for stairs, elevators, long carries, or shuttle service at your new home.
- Last-minute repairs or maintenance: Any needed fixes before you leave your old place.
- Pet boarding or transport: If you’re moving with pets, don’t forget these costs.
Related resources and further reading
For more help planning your move, check out these guides:
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