The Hidden Costs of Moving House in (and How to Avoid Them)

Moving house can be exciting — a fresh start, a new space to make your own. However, it’s not always as simple as packing boxes and calling a moving company. Whether you're upgrading to a larger home in Brighton or moving within Hove, many homeowners often face unexpected costs that aren’t immediately obvious during the moving process. Understanding these hidden expenses can help you avoid financial surprises and make your move smoother.

In this blog, we’ll break down common hidden costs of moving house in Brighton & Hove, and provide you with smart tips to keep your moving budget in check.

1. Packing Materials and Supplies

When you think about moving, your first thought might be the actual removal service. But there are plenty of additional costs related to getting your belongings safely packed. Good quality packing materials, such as bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, and packing tape, are essential but can quickly add up, especially if you're moving fragile items or need special boxes for large furniture.

How to Avoid It

Rather than buying new packing supplies, check local stores or online marketplaces for second-hand boxes. You could also ask friends or neighbours for spare boxes, and utilise soft materials like blankets or old towels to cushion your items. Many removal companies in Brighton & Hove offer packing services that could save you time and money in the long run, as they often have bulk packing materials at a discounted rate.

2. Parking Permits

Brighton & Hove is famous for its narrow streets, limited parking, and popular spots along the seafront. If you live in a busy area like the city centre or near the pier, you’ll likely need a parking permit for your removal vehicle. Without it, you risk fines or delays in the moving process.

How to Avoid It

Check with your local council (Brighton & Hove City Council) to see if you need to apply for a permit in advance. Many removal companies will help you arrange this, but it’s important to plan ahead so you're not caught off guard on moving day.

3. Storage Fees

There are times when moving doesn’t go as smoothly as planned. If your new place isn’t ready on time, or if you have overlapping contracts, you may need to store your belongings temporarily. Storage units in Brighton & Hove can be expensive, especially in the more central areas.

How to Avoid It

Consider if you can arrange a flexible moving window with your buyer or landlord, so you can avoid needing temporary storage altogether. Alternatively, if storage becomes necessary, look into more affordable options outside the immediate city centre, or ask your removal company if they offer competitive short-term storage solutions.

4. Cleaning Costs

Cleaning your old place is an essential part of the moving process, but if you're unable to do it yourself, hiring professionals could be an additional cost. For renters in Brighton & Hove, many tenancy agreements require professional cleaning before you hand back the keys.

How to Avoid It

You can either DIY the cleaning if possible or ask your moving company for a referral to a trusted cleaning service.

5. Additional Moving Services

While you might only be focused on the basic moving process, there are additional services that can escalate the total cost, such as packing, disassembling and reassembling furniture, handling high-value or fragile items, or moving large appliances like fridges and washing machines.

How to Avoid It

When you receive quotes from moving companies in Brighton & Hove, be sure to ask for a breakdown of the services they provide. Understand exactly what is included in the quote and what will incur an additional charge. Being clear about your needs upfront helps ensure there are no unexpected fees later on.

Conclusion

Moving house in Brighton & Hove offers its own unique set of challenges, but understanding the hidden costs and planning ahead can make all the difference. From packing materials and parking permits to storage and cleaning fees, the costs of moving can add up quickly. By staying organised and being proactive, you can avoid financial surprises and enjoy a smoother, more cost-effective move.

Final Tip:

Don't forget to research and compare removal companies in Brighton & Hove. Look for those with transparent pricing, positive reviews, and a wide range of services to ensure you're getting the best deal. A little effort upfront can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run.