The IFCU Blog

Planning a move this summer? You’re not alone. June is the most popular month for moving, according to Zillow. With warm weather, school breaks, and longer daylight hours, it’s the ideal time for families and individuals to relocate. But as exciting as moving into a new home can be, it often comes with stress, surprise expenses, and budgeting challenges.

Whether you’re moving locally or making a long-distance move across state lines, it’s important to be prepared—both logistically and financially. According to Forbes, the average cost of a local move is around $1,250, while a long-distance move can exceed $5,000. Without a well-thought-out plan, those numbers can climb quickly.

To help you avoid overspending and unnecessary headaches, we’ve compiled five of the most common moving mistakes—and practical tips for how to avoid them.

1. Underestimating the Total Cost of Moving

Many people plan their moving budget based solely on the cost of hiring movers or renting a truck. However, the real cost of moving includes so much more—packing supplies, utility deposits, gas and tolls, meals on the road, hotel stays, and cleaning fees. These smaller expenses can add up quickly and catch you off guard.

IFCU Tip:
Before you schedule movers or reserve a truck, sit down and create a comprehensive moving budget. Be sure to account for both fixed and variable expenses, and include a 10–15% buffer for unexpected costs. This small step can save you a lot of financial stress later.

2. Only Getting One Moving Quote

If you’re hiring a professional moving company, don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Moving costs can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of year, and included services like packing or storage. Failing to shop around could mean you’re overpaying for the same level of service.

IFCU Tip:
Request at least three moving quotes from different companies, and be sure to ask about available discounts. Many movers offer lower rates for students, military families, and off-peak days. You might also consider a DIY hybrid move, where you rent a truck but hire movers for loading and unloading only—this can help you save while still getting some help.

3. Forgetting to Transfer or Cancel Services

When you’re in the middle of a move, it’s easy to forget about utilities and subscriptions. Leaving services active at your old address could result in double charges or late fees. And don’t forget to cancel recurring memberships like gyms, meal kits, or streaming services you won’t be using at your new location.

IFCU Tip:
Make a master checklist of all services linked to your current address—utilities, internet, cable, subscriptions, etc. Aim to schedule cancellations or transfers at least two weeks before your move date to avoid service gaps or billing issues.

4. Moving Too Much Stuff

The more items you bring with you, the more your move will cost—especially if you’re paying by weight or truck space. Moving is the perfect opportunity to declutter your home and part ways with things you no longer use or need.

IFCU Tip:
Start the packing process early and be honest about what you really need. If you haven’t used something in the past year, donate it, sell it, or toss it. You’ll save money on packing materials and moving labor—and your new home will feel cleaner and more organized from day one.

5. Overlooking Post-Move Expenses

It’s tempting to think the spending ends when the truck pulls away, but setting up your new home often brings another wave of costs. From buying new furniture and décor to restocking your pantry and cleaning supplies, those first few weeks can strain your budget if you’re not prepared.

IFCU Tip:
Set aside $200–$500 in your moving budget for post-move essentials. This extra cushion can help you avoid relying on credit cards and allow you to settle into your new home more comfortably.

Bonus Tip: Create a Moving Budget with Help from IFCU

At Industrial Federal Credit Union, we know that big life transitions—like moving—require more than packing tape and boxes. They require thoughtful financial planning.

That’s why we’ve offer free financial counseling and tools that can help you build a budget, manage debt, and confidently prepare for your next chapter.

Whether you're preparing for a local move, a cross-country relocation, or just looking to take control of your finances, our team is here to help you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Move Without Breaking the Bank

Moving can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to derail your finances. By avoiding these common moving mistakes and building a budget that accounts for all stages of the move, you’ll save money—and stress.

If you’re gearing up for a move, don’t do it alone. Contact Industrial Federal Credit Union today to explore resources that can help you power your financial future—wherever life takes you.