When staring down a quote from a professional moving company, it's tempting to think: "I could just rent a truck and do it myself for a fraction of the cost." While a DIY move can save you money on paper, the hidden costs often shrink those savings dramatically.
The Rental Truck Illusion
The billboard might say "$19.95 a day," but that is just the base rate. Once you factor in the per-mile charges, environmental fees, taxes, and the expensive supplemental insurance you should definitely purchase, that $20 truck can quickly cost hundreds of dollars.
Fuel Efficiency (Or Lack Thereof)
Fully loaded moving trucks get abysmal gas mileage, often hovering around 8 to 10 miles per gallon. If you are moving long distance, the fuel costs alone can rival the cost of hiring a professional.
Equipment and Supplies
Professional movers bring their own equipment. If you DIY, you have to rent or buy furniture dollies, appliance dollies, heavy-duty moving blankets, and tie-down straps. These add up rapidly.
The Physical and Liability Costs
Moving a refrigerator or a heavy oak dresser requires skill. If you scratch the hardwood floors of your rental unit, you lose your deposit. If you drop your television, you bear the replacement cost. And most importantly, if you throw out your back carrying a sofa down a flight of stairs, the medical bills (and missed time at work) will vastly exceed the cost of hiring professionals.
Before committing to a DIY move, calculate all the hidden costs and assign a dollar value to your own time and physical effort.