The cost of relocating: budget effectively for a stress-free move

As you prepare to pack up your life and move to a new country, you’ll notice that it is not a cheap endeavour. Apart from the obvious costs, such as the travel involved and finding a place to stay, many other expenses will emerge along the way. A solid budgeting strategy ahead of your move will ensure peace of mind, and it might even save you money in the long run.

Moving costs: a checklist

Travel. No matter how you choose to get to your destination, you’ll need to factor in travel expenses. To get the best rates possible, you can book early in advance, use up travel miles you have accumulated, or shop around for the best deal before you book. Flight comparison websites allow you to set up alerts as soon as prices drop on a selected itinerary.

Pet relocation. Taking your furry friend with you can sometimes cost more than what you will pay for your own travel. Requirements such as micro-chipping and specific vaccinations and treatments prior to travelling, in addition to the actual travel costs, can easily add up to significant amounts.

Moving your belongings. Moving abroad, you will likely want to take most of your belongings with you. This will involve costs such as hiring a professional moving company, paying for special packing materials, and paying for moving insurance to cover potential loss or damage. Moving prices will depend on journey distance and the volume of your goods. Keep in mind that, should your belongings arrive before you do, or before you have secured a place to live, you might need to pay additional storage fees.

Special items. Want to take your car, art pieces, or piano with you? As these items need special arrangements and/or care, they might incur extra moving costs.

Accommodation. If you are planning to rent, you might be asked to pay some months’ rent in advance, and/or a security deposit. If you enlist the help of a real estate agency in finding a home, you will need to pay them a commission or fee.

Temporary lodging. Unless you have secured a home prior to moving, you will need to factor in expenses for a hotel or other temporary living arrangements.

Utilities. Settling into your new home will involve setting up some or all utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, phone and wi-fi. Some utilities might be included in the rent; this will be specified in your tenancy agreement.

Day-to-day costs. Depending on where you are moving, it might be the case that the cost of living is significantly higher than in your home country. Your new salary will likely reflect the cost of living in the new country, but until you are fully settled in, prepare to pay more for the basics.

New purchases. As you are getting used to your new home and life, new needs will crop up: items for your house, such as furniture, clothes for colder or warmer climates, suitable work attire and various other things that you cannot foresee before moving.

Pondering whether moving abroad would be a good choice for you? Our article Should you make the leap and move abroad? will help you decide.

Related links:

Moving abroad? Get your papers ready

European Commission: Moving & working in Europe

EURES: Living and working conditions in Europe

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