Budgeting for moving is a great way to avoid spending more than you should or running out of money halfway through the process. Naturally, certain expenditures are evident, even if this is the first time you are relocating your possessions to a new rental or owned home. On the other hand, a handful of hidden and apparently insignificant costs are not.

When they pile up, you might be forced to max out your credit card just to cover them, and that means starting off your new life with a damaged credit score and a large burden of debt. To make sure that doesn’t happen, we’ve compiled a list of aspects to be mindful before and during the move.

1. Evaluate the insurance policy of the moving company and invest in extra, when required

In the vast majority of cases, collaborating with a serious and professional moving company means that your goods are covered by a standard insurance policy. However, the value of the reimbursement you’re entitled to receive in the event when your possessions are damaged is calculated per pound, irrespective of the inherent value of the object.

The ongoing average rates of 60 cents a pound proprietary to standard insurance is only a fragment of the value of a damage priceless vase or artwork. Therefore, when transporting small but valuable goods, purchasing individual insurance for them is highly recommended.

2. Consider the investments you’ll need to perform before leaving your current home

Selling your home usually comes with a list of obligations on your part highlighted in the contract, such as repairs, improvements, etc. Alternatively, when you leave a rental apartment, you won’t be entitled to your damage deposit unless the place is in accordance to your rental contract. Therefore, factor in the extra expenditures for hiring a cleaning service or contractors to fix up the place into the moving budget. Don’t forget to account for the cleaning or repair materials as well.

3. When moving into a rental, make sure you understand ALL the costs

It’s often that people who plan to relocate into a rented house or apartment only take the value of rent into consideration. In reality, there are numerous other variables to account for, depending on the terms of your rental agreement. For example, the parking space, security deposit, brokerage costs or certain utilities may have to come out of your pocket. When moving into a good neighborhood where the rent appears too good to be true, always examine the rental agreement carefully before putting your John Hancock on it.

4. Determine the entirety of expenditures on the road

Finally, the distance you travel to your new home has the potential to increase the moving expenditure considerably. If you prefer traveling there in your own car, use an online calculator to identify the optimal route, the value of gas, the number of stops and travelling accommodations like hotels/motels. Flying also brings hidden expenses, including taxi fares, extra luggage fees or pet accommodations, if you’re bringing your four legged companions along.