Finding A Two-Bedroom Apartment: A Moving Guide

Moving to a new apartment can be an exciting but daunting task, and there are many factors to consider when deciding on the right size and type of apartment for your needs. One of the critical aspects is the number of bedrooms, which can impact cost, space, and functionality. This article will provide an introduction to the topic of moving and specifically focus on how to get a two-bedroom apartment, covering various considerations such as cost, packing, and potential uses for the extra space.

Cost of moving a two-bedroom apartment

The cost of moving a two-bedroom apartment will depend on a variety of factors, including the distance of the move, the amount of stuff you have, and the accessibility of the pickup and drop-off locations.

Local Moves

For a local move (under 100 miles), professional movers will typically charge by the hour. The cost for a two-bedroom apartment can range from $560 to $2,240, depending on the number of movers and the size of the truck required.

Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves (100 miles or more), professional movers will usually charge based on weight and mileage. The cost can range from $2,700 to $8,100, depending on the distance and the services required.

DIY Moves

If you're considering a DIY move, you'll need to rent a moving truck and factor in the cost of gas. A 15' U-Haul truck, suitable for a two-bedroom apartment, starts at $29.95 for in-town moves, plus an additional $0.89 per mile.

Additionally, you'll need to budget for packing materials, which can cost around $100-$150 for a two-bedroom apartment.

Other Factors Affecting Cost

The cost of moving a two-bedroom apartment can also be influenced by the following factors:

• Accessibility: Ground-floor apartments with easy access to the moving truck will usually be cheaper than apartments with multiple flights of stairs or elevator access.
• Amount of belongings: The more stuff you have, the higher the cost of moving will be. Movers often have minimum charges, such as a 3-hour or 4-hour minimum.
• Distance: Longer distances will generally result in higher costs, as they take more time and incur greater fuel expenses.
• Preparation: Being well-prepared before the movers arrive can help reduce costs. Having your items organized, packed, and ready to go can save time and money.
• Packing services: If you require the movers to pack your items, this will increase the cost. Packing services can be charged at an hourly rate or a standard rate for two people.
• Moving company: Different moving companies have different rates, so it's essential to compare prices and read reviews before making a decision.

It's important to get multiple quotes from reputable moving companies and ask about any additional fees or services that may be required.

How many boxes are needed

When moving to a two-bedroom apartment, the number of boxes you need will depend on the volume of your belongings, the size of the boxes, and whether you are using specialty boxes for certain items.

According to Nimrod Sheinberg, vice president of sales at Oz Moving & Storage, you will need about 15 boxes per room. This estimate is based on using specially-sized boxes for specific items, such as a 12"x12"x12" book box for books, rather than standard linen boxes. He also notes that this number may seem high, as most people tend to underestimate the volume of their belongings.

Another estimate suggests that you will need one box for every shelf or drawer in your house. For example, a dresser with six drawers would require six boxes to pack fully. Additionally, you should assume one china box or dish barrel per shelf for kitchenware and one standard-sized linen box per drawer.

For a two-bedroom apartment, you will also need specialty boxes for certain items. It is recommended to get one dish saver kit, two to three wardrobe boxes, and a TV box for each flat-screen television.

To avoid the stress of running out of boxes or having too many, it is advisable to purchase boxes from a company that accepts returns for unused boxes, such as U-Haul. Alternatively, you can use a packing calculator to estimate the number of boxes needed based on factors such as the number of bedrooms, your lifestyle (minimalist, modest, or pack rat), and the number of people in your household.

Cost of packing materials

When it comes to the cost of packing materials, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the size of your home will impact the amount and type of packing materials you need. A two-bedroom apartment will likely require more boxes, tape, and other supplies than a smaller space. Additionally, the cost of packing materials can vary depending on the specific items you need and the brand or quality you choose.

• Cardboard boxes: Depending on the size and quality of the boxes, you can expect to pay around £2.50 - £3.00 per box for small to medium-sized boxes, and up to £9.00 for larger or speciality boxes, such as wardrobe boxes.
• Packing tape: Opt for heavy-duty tape, which typically costs around £1.50 - £2.50 per roll. You may also want to invest in a tape dispenser to help you use the right amount and save tape.
• Bubble wrap: This protective material is essential for wrapping fragile items and lining boxes. Expect to pay around £3.00 for a 5m x 1m section.
• Labels or markers: Labelling your boxes will help keep you organised during the move. Labels can cost around £6.95, or you can use permanent markers, which typically come in packs of varying colours.
• Moving blankets: These are useful for protecting furniture and other delicate items during transit. While you can use your own thick blankets, specialised moving blankets can be purchased or rented.
• Furniture covers: To protect your furniture from scratches or damage, you can purchase plastic covers for mattresses, couches, and other items. These typically cost a few pounds each.
• Cargo straps or rope: To secure your items in the moving truck, you'll need durable cargo straps or rope, which usually cost a few pounds per item.
• Toolset: A basic toolset will come in handy for assembling and disassembling furniture during the move. A simple set can cost around £10-£20.
• Cleaning supplies: Don't forget to set aside some cleaning supplies, such as brooms and trash bags, to clean your old and new spaces during the move. The cost will vary depending on the specific items you need.

In total, you can expect to spend around £100-£150 on packing materials for a two-bedroom apartment move, although this may vary depending on the specific items you need and the brand or quality you choose. Keep in mind that this cost does not include the cost of hiring professional packers, which can be significantly higher.

Size of the moving truck

When moving to a two-bedroom apartment, it is essential to select the right size of moving truck to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. The size of your moving truck will depend on various factors, including the number of rooms in your home, the amount and size of your belongings, and the distance of your move.

For a two-bedroom apartment, a 15-foot box truck is typically recommended. This size truck offers ample space to accommodate your belongings and is suitable for larger local moves or small long-distance relocations. It is important to note that renting a truck that is too large may cause load shift, potentially damaging your belongings during transport.

When choosing a moving truck, consider the size and number of your furniture, appliances, and other bulky items. Large items like couches, beds, refrigerators, and washers take up considerable space. If you have multiple large items, opting for a bigger truck rental will ensure that everything fits comfortably and securely.

The number of moving boxes you have will also impact the size of the truck needed. Boxes can quickly fill up space, especially if they are not packed efficiently. Be sure to account for this necessary space when selecting your moving truck rental.

If you are moving long distances, it is crucial to ensure you have enough space for all your belongings, as multiple trips may not be feasible. In these cases, it is better to have extra space than not enough.

Additionally, consider whether you will have help with loading and unloading. A larger truck can be easier to manage with assistance, while a smaller truck might be more practical if you are moving solo.

Cost-saving tips

Reduce the amount of stuff you have

The more stuff you own, the more it will cost to move. Movers often have minimum charges, such as a 3-hour $300 minimum for 2 movers or a 4-hour $400 minimum. Consider whether it's worth moving everything, or if it would be cheaper to sell or donate some items and buy new/used ones at your new location.

Opt for a ground-floor apartment

Ground-floor two-bedroom apartments with easy access to the moving truck will be cheaper than apartments on higher floors that require the use of stairs or elevators. Make sure to ask moving companies about any additional charges for stairs or elevators, as some companies charge extra for these.

Move a shorter distance

The shorter the distance you move, the lower the cost. Local movers typically charge by the hour, so the time taken to drive between locations will impact the total bill.

Declutter and prepare

Get rid of as much stuff as possible, especially if you're moving long-distance. Consider the cost of moving items versus buying new ones at your new location. The weight of your items is a significant factor in long-distance moves, as movers will charge by weight and mileage.

Pack yourself

If you don't need the movers to pack your items, you can save on time and money. Packing yourself can be more cost-effective, but it will take up more of your time. Some movers charge less for packing services, while others charge their standard rate.

Factor in the cost of packing materials

The cost of packing materials is often not included in the moving quote. It is estimated to cost an additional $100-$150 to buy new packing materials for a two-bedroom apartment move. You can save money by sourcing free or cheap boxes and supplies from local stores, friends, or online communities.

Choose your moving company wisely

Not all moving companies charge the same rates or provide the same level of service. Just because a company has a lower hourly rate doesn't mean the overall cost will be lower. Read reviews to gauge how efficient a company is and whether they tend to stick to their quoted cost. For a two-bedroom apartment move, consider choosing a company that offers a flat rate to ensure a predictable final cost.

Move during off-peak times

Moving during the summer, end of the month, or on weekends will be more expensive due to higher demand. You may be able to negotiate a better rate during off-peak times, such as weekdays or outside of summer.

Frequently asked questions