You are faced with a turning point in your life —moving to BC! You have probably had experience moving between cities in your province before, but moving across the country to a new province could be a whole new level of challenge that needs a lot of planning and organization. If you are planning to move from another province to BC within the near future, read this guide to keep yourself organized!
Moving across the country isn’t easy, but with some organization you can stay on top of it.
3 Important Costs to Consider When Moving to BC
1) Cost of Living
Do some research on the cost of living of the new city where you’ll be living in while keeping in mind your own spending habits and salary. You want to make sure that you still some money for you to enjoy yourself and explore around the city beside spending on basic necessities. Moving to BC from another province can entail a lot of costs, but it could also be a new opportunity for you to save money because provincial taxes, food, utilities could be cheaper in your new city.
2) Transportation Costs
Look into transit fees, monthly passes, gas prices, parking fees, and insurance rates in your new city. Living close to work reduces transit costs but increases parking costs, and living farther away increases your transit costs or gas costs. Comparing these prices helps you decide on where you want to live.
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3) Housing Costs
You also need to take housing costs into consideration when you are comparing different transportation costs because, for example, a lower housing price farther away from the city results in a longer commute, which increases your transit costs. Look into the housing market in your city and find a neighbourhood that works best for you. If you end up sacrificing the quality of your home for a cheaper rent, you need to consider purchasing tenants insurance to protect your belongings.
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How do you move your belongings to BC?
1) Hire a Moving Company
If you want a comfortable moving experience and have some extra money to spend, you can hire a moving company to help you with every aspect of moving, from packing to unpacking. Some companies charge by weight, and others charge a flat rate depending on the distance between the two cities. You also have the option to only request for loading and unloading, which entails less cost.
2) Rent a Moving Truck
If you are comfortable driving a moving truck and want to save money, you can rent a one-way moving truck and return it in your destination city. U-Haul, for example, offers one-way moving truck rental. If you have limited experience in driving a moving truck, make sure to review the driving manual that the company provides you to ensure safety for everyone.
3) Use a Moving Container
Another option that comes in handy especially for families with children is renting a moving container. You can pack at your own speed and, when you’re ready, call the moving company to get your stuff going. When you are on the trip and want to stop for a break, you don’t need to worry about your belongings since they are stored and safely handled by professionals.
Give notice before moving
Since you will be moving to another province that operates with different systems, you should get ready to have everything in order once you arrive in BC. You should contact your doctors, (children’s) schools, service providers, employer, banks, friends and family that you will be moving to get copies for the important documents. Some processes may take longer than you expect, so it’s better to start preparing as soon as you know you will be moving.
Get insured with Maxxam Insurance
Welcome to BC! We are a BC-based insurance company that offers services in Victoria, Burnaby, Nanaimo, and Penticton. Whenever you have an insurance-related question or would like a free quote, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are more than happy to assist you with a smooth transition in BC!
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