Moving brings with it many obvious costs – but often it is the hidden additional coststhat exceed the budget. From No-parking zones, renovations and new contracts – there are many unforeseen expenses. In this article, we will show you what additional costs may arise and how you can avoid them.
1. Costs for rental deposit & double rent payments
🏠 1. Rental deposit for the new apartment
✅ As a rule, 2-3 months' rent deposited as a security deposit become.
✅ If money is tight: Consider surety bonds as an alternative.
📦 2. Avoid double rent payments
✅ Often the old and new rental contracts overlap – this can lead to double rental costs come.
✅ If necessary, try to find a new tenantto avoid double rent.
💡 Tip: If possible, negotiate with the new landlord whether the start date of the lease can be adjusted flexibly!
2. Costs for moving companies or rental vans
🚛 1. Moving companies & additional services
✅ Depending on the scope, a professional moving company costs between 500–3,000 €.
✅ Extra services such as Furniture assembly, packing service or short-term bookings increase the costs.
🚚 2. Costs for rental vans & helpers
✅ A rental van costs depending on size & availability between 50–200 € per day.
✅ If helpers are needed: Hourly wage for moving helpers (~10–20 €/hour).
📍 3. Apply for a no-parking zone
✅ If there is no parking space in front of the old or new apartment, a No-parking zone may be necessary.
✅ Costs: 50–150 € depending on city & duration.
💡 Tip: Get quotes early and compare prices to avoid unnecessary additional costs!
3. Renovation and repair costs in the old and new apartment
🎨 1. Renovation of the old apartment (if contractually required)
✅ Some rental agreements stipulate that Walls painted or small repairs carried out must be.
✅ If necessary, plan for costs for paint, painting or minor repairs (~100–500 €).
🔧 2. Repair damage to get your deposit back
✅ If damage has occurred in the old apartment, the Deposit may be reduced or retained.
✅ If necessary, Plan for craftsman costs for repairs.
🏠 3. Adjustments in the new apartment
✅ If the new apartment is unrenovated: Costs for Painting work, floor coverings or lamp installation plan.
✅ Especially old buildings often require new sockets, seals or minor adjustments.
💡 Tip: Check your rental agreement before moving out – cosmetic repairs are often mandatory!
4. Moving boxes & packing materials
📦 1. Costs for new moving boxes
✅ A sturdy box costs between 2–5 € – with 30-50 boxes, that adds up to quite a lot.
✅ Alternatives: Free boxes from supermarkets or second-hand offers to use.
🛠 2. Don't underestimate packaging material
✅ Bubble wrap, adhesive tape & protective films for furniture can also 50–100 € cost.
✅ Alternatives: Use blankets, towels or newspaper as upholstery protection.
💡 Tip: Many people give away moving boxes after their move – check classifieds & online groups!
5. Connection and re-registration fees
📜 1. Change of address at the residents’ registration office
✅ The change of address is possible in most cities for free, but in some cases 10–30 € cost.
✅ If you miss the deadline for re-registration (usually 14 days after moving), Fines of up to 100 € may apply.
🔌 2. New electricity, gas & internet contracts
✅ If a new provider is chosen, Connection fees between 30–100 € arise.
✅ Tip: Use comparison portals & secure new customer bonuses!
📦 3. Change of address for banks, insurance companies & subscriptions
✅ Some banks & insurance companies charge fees for a Change of address or a new bank card.
✅ If magazines or packages go to the old address, a forwarding order at the post office (20–30 €) may be necessary.
💡 Tip: Check all contracts and providers before moving and avoid any potential costs for new connections!
6. New furniture & furnishing costs
🛋 1. New furniture & household appliances
✅ If the new apartment is larger, new furniture may be necessary.
✅ Costs for basics like Bed, couch, dining table & wardrobe can quickly 1,000–2,500 € to reach.
💡 Tip: Use second-hand furniture & classified ads to save costs!
🔧 2. Assembly and craftsman costs
✅ If furniture or kitchens need to be assembled: Plan for costs for fitters (30–100 €/hour).
✅ Alternatively: Build it yourself & ask friends for help.
🏠 3. Copy keys & security
✅ If necessary, Install new door locks (~50–200 €).
✅ Make additional keys for roommates or family (~5–20 € per key).
💡 Tip: Hardware stores often have affordable alternatives for lock changes and installations!
7. Avoid common mistakes & reduce additional costs
❌ Forgetting to plan for costs for re-registration & contracts → Solution: Check all current contracts and switch in good time.
❌ Double rent payments due to poor planning → Solution: Find a new tenant or agree on the start of the rental period.
❌ Do not apply for a no-parking zone and risk a ticket → Solution: Reserve parking at least 2 weeks in advance.
❌ Buying too many new furniture and boxes → Solution: Use used moving boxes and second-hand furniture.
💡 Tip: Detailed moving planning saves you unnecessary costs!
Conclusion: How to keep moving costs under control
✔ Plan early & factor in hidden additional costs
✔ Organize rental contracts and changes of address in good time
✔ Deposit guarantee & find a new tenant to avoid double payments
✔ Use comparison portals for electricity, internet & insurance
✔ Use second-hand furniture & free moving boxes
🚛 Are you about to move? Praktik Transport offers transparent solutions for a stress-free & cost-effective move! Get a non-binding offer now! 📦💡✨
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