Tulsa and Oklahoma City Moving Blog - Tips, Tricks, and Insider Info
December 10, 2017

Budgeting for Your Cross-Country Move to Tulsa and Oklahoma City

budgeting for moving 

A cross-country move to Tulsa and Oklahoma City is a grand task, and there are surely differing degrees of difficulty and expense. How do you manage such a move without taxing your bank account? Here are a few things you can do to know up-front what to predict and plan for.

Above all, as with any undertaking, plan. Early considerations should include the cost of living in Tulsa and Oklahoma City - what are the overall expenses of housing, food, fuel, and utilities? How long can your commute be before another neighborhood becomes a better alternative? What is the economic landscape? Do you need to change any professional licensing, and how is the market for your field of expertise? What are the local income and property taxes that you need to know, including vehicle registration? Do household utilities require a large deposit up front? These may seem like small things, but they can make a major impact in a budget that did not account for them ahead of time. Know your incidental costs.

Assuming your general location in Tulsa and Oklahoma City is already established, wrap up your living arrangements. Are you closing on a new residence, or renting for a while in your new location? There are different expenses associated with each option. Your title agent or property manager can explain to you closing costs, deposits, move-in dates or closing times. Are there educational arrangements to be made for your children? Have those specifics figured out.

And, when it comes to the move, research and contrast several options. Thinking about renting a DIY moving truck? Consider the rental expense, travel expenses (accommodations along the way, fuel, etc.), liability for damages, your own time and energy reserves for packing, loading, traveling, unloading, unpacking and the rest. Portable storage containers can be an alternative many ponder, but costs can add up if storage is required or your new zip code isn't serviced and you have to hire a moving truck anyway to finally receive your stuff. Professional movers are also a choice, from full service packing and moving or a customized plan that meets your specific needs. Know your options and compare their bottom lines. You could be pleasantly surprised.

Last, but not least, think about, as best you can, for the unpredictable. Don't jump in without a keen knowledge of your resources in comparison with your costs, and do not think about spending right up to the end of your budget. Plan a cushion against the unforeseeable. What might you need to do if your DIY rental truck requires a repair or substitution along the road that pushes out your arrival an extra day or two? Allow for a buffer in your budget in case of such issues. What is the policy of the portable storage company if you have a last-minute change to the timeline and things need to stay in storage for some time? Is it expensive, and do they have locked facilities? Or will you need to make those arrangements on your own? How is their customer service? Are they easy to contact? Be aware of your responsibilities and any extra expenses potentially incurred. If you've gone with a professional company, how flexible are they about changes along the way? Do they keep in clear communication with you throughout the move, and does their track record instill confidence in their services? If so, it can offer a protective insulation to your budget.

If you're ready to hire experienced professionals, or are in your fact-finding phase and want to get an idea of what your options are, contact us. We have been helping people move for over 40 years, and have built an excellent transportation and logistics team based on a culture of honesty, integrity, and hard work. Let us know if we can help you.

REAL PEOPLE. GREAT EXPERIENCES.
The Mickelson Family
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The Mickelson Family
Best. Move. Ever!
Very pleased with the overall respect and care the men gave to my possessions. Even mailing me very quickly the only thing lost in transit. Would recommend to anyone needing a long distant move.
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