A move involves more than the mover’s bill. Packing supplies, travel, deposits, and extras add up. This worksheet helps you list every cost so you can set a realistic budget and avoid surprises.

Step 1: Estimate Your Mover Cost

Start with the moving company itself. Use our moving cost calculator for a ballpark, then get quotes from at least three movers. Write down your best estimate and add 10–15% for extras like stairs, long carries, or overtime. For more on what can inflate the bill, see our guide on hidden moving costs.

Item	Your Estimate
Base mover quote	$__________
Buffer (10–15%)	$__________
Mover total	$__________

Step 2: Packing Supplies

If you pack yourself, you’ll need boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and possibly furniture pads. A typical 2-bedroom move can use $80–$200 in supplies. Buying from the mover is often more expensive than sourcing your own. For full-service packing costs, see our add-on services guide.

Item	Typical Cost	Your Estimate
Boxes	$50–$150	$__________
Tape, wrap, padding	$20–$80	$__________
Furniture pads (if renting)	$20–$50	$__________
Supplies total		$__________

Step 3: Add-On Services

Disassembly, specialty crating, storage, or full-value protection can add hundreds. List what you need and get prices from your mover.

Service	Typical Cost	Your Estimate
Packing (full-service)	$400–$1,500+	$__________
Storage	$50–$150/day	$__________
Full-value protection	1–2% of shipment value	$__________
Specialty items (piano, etc.)	Varies	$__________
Add-ons total		$__________

Step 4: Travel and Temporary Costs

For long-distance moves, factor in your own travel: gas, flights, hotels, meals. If you’re moving into a new home, you may have overlap rent or utility setup fees.

Item	Your Estimate
Gas / flight	$__________
Hotels (if needed)	$__________
Meals en route	$__________
Overlap rent (old + new)	$__________
Travel total	$__________

Step 5: Deposits and Fees

Moving companies often require a deposit to secure your date. You may also pay application fees, utility deposits, or pet deposits at your new place.

Item	Typical Cost	Your Estimate
Mover deposit	$50–$200+	$__________
Rental application / security deposit	Varies	$__________
Utility deposits	Varies	$__________
Deposits total		$__________

For more on when and how much to expect, read our guide on moving deposit and payment.

Step 6: Contingency

Add 10–15% of your total as a cushion for things you didn’t plan for. This is standard practice for any major expense.

Category	Amount
Subtotal (add all above)	$__________
Contingency (10–15%)	$__________
Total budget	$__________

Step 7: Track Actual Spending

As you move, record what you actually spend in each category. Compare it to your estimate. This helps you adjust on the fly and gives you a better template for future moves.

Ways to Cut Costs

If your total feels high, consider:

• Moving mid-week and mid-month (see peak vs off-peak prices)
• Packing yourself instead of full-service
• Getting free boxes from stores or online
• Comparing full-service vs DIY if you’re open to renting a truck
• Using our saving money tips for more ideas

Tax Considerations

If you’re relocating for work, some moving expenses may be tax-deductible. See our article on tax deductions for moving expenses to see if you qualify.

Summary

Budget for the mover, supplies, add-ons, travel, deposits, and a contingency. Use this worksheet to list each cost and add a buffer. Tracking actual spending helps you stay on budget and plan better for next time.