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If you’re planning to relocate in 2021, this guide will help you work out how much it costs to move home.
Moving can be costly, especially if it’s long distance. It’s essential to draft a comprehensive moving budget beforehand. We help you work out the costs and, hopefully, make some cuts.
Typical moving costs 2021
A local mini mover that transports your goods a few kilometres will charge around R1,000, depending on the volume of items. However, a two to four-hour moving slot will cost R2,000 to R3,000.
For larger moves between towns and cities, expect to pay much more. For example, the average cost of a move from Cape Town to Johannesburg for the contents of a two-bedroom flat is R,6000 to R8,000. This is for transport only. It doesn’t include packing or storage services.
Compare moving quotes online
A number of online services let you compare provisional moving quotes. Some examples are:
Factors that affect moving costs in 2021
The final cost of moving your belongings will depend on a few factors. Include as much detail as possible when requesting a quote, such as:
- the amount of property you have
- distance to the new house
- stairs (or not) at either end
- need for a hoist or crane
- heavy or hard-to-move items, such as potted plants
- packing or storage services
- local or city-to-city move.
Moving options: from DIY to high-end moving companies
There are different types of moving companies to choose from, depending on how much property you have and how far you’re moving.
DIY moving
Doing your own move will save you money, but it will mean more physical labour. You may need to rope in friends or family to help. If you don’t have a vehicle, you’ll have to rent a truck or trailer. Factor that into your budget.
Local mini mover
Local mini movers are usually cost effective. Most have a bakkie and trailer, so there’s a limit to how much property they can move and how far they’ll transport it. Employ a mover with measures in place to protect your belongings from rain and damage.
National movers
Larger companies can move you anywhere in the country, but they’re pricey. The trucks are enclosed to protect your belongings from the elements. They can transport more items and travel longer distances.
City-to-city movers
A city-to-city mover specialises in moving from one major hub to another with large, shared loads. This can be cost effective but you rarely get to choose the date of the move. You must fit in with the schedule. Smaller towns aren’t usually on the route.
Specialised movers
Some moving companies won’t take unusual items, such as a piano or motorbike. You’ll need to hire a specialist mover with the experience and equipment for these items.
Other moving costs
In addition to the cost of the moving company, there are other costs to factor in your budget. These include:
- boxes and packing materials
- petrol for journeys to and from the new house
- carpet cleaning and painting
- new curtains and blinds
- calming remedies for nervous pets
- temporary storage
- accommodation for the journey.
Ways to reduce moving costs in 2021
If your budget is looking worryingly large, there are ways to try to cut costs. Some moving companies will give you a lower quote if you move in the middle of the month and not over a weekend.
Declutter your home before you start packing to reduce the amount of belongings you’re moving. Shop around when hiring a moving company. Find the balance between a fair quote and a trustworthy mover.
Recommended moving companies
Choosing the cheapest quote could be a mistake if you end up with an unreliable mover. Look online for moving companies with good ratings. Ask friends and family for recommendations.
Check out our top 10 moving companies in Jo’burg, as well as the top moving companies in Cape Town, for guidance.
Ecobox
Now that you know how much it costs to move home, we can help. At Ecobox, we can’t move your belongings, but we can make packing easier.
We offer convenient, affordable plastic moving boxes for rent that are ideal for home and office moves. Just order your boxes and we’ll deliver them to your doorstep – and once you’ve moved and unpacked, we’ll collect them from your new location. Contact us for more information or get started now.
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