What Is a Small Move?

No matter how adept you are at planning, executing, and delegating tasks, moving is something that almost nobody looks forward to. It takes a lot of time and effort to move efficiently and effectively.

Even when you’re making a small move.

But what is a small move? Is it easier to move less stuff than more stuff? It can be, but only if you plan properly or hire a professional moving company that can handle a small move.

Read on for more information about small moves and how hiring a professional moving company can make a huge difference in your stress levels.

What Is a Small Move?

Small moves are the relocation of fewer household items than a typical move. It’s usually associated with one or two-room apartments or smaller homes. A small move is a bit different than a typical move not only in terms of the quantity of the items but also in the logistical details.

You may also be wondering if a move can still be labeled small if it’s a long distance or a cross country move. The answer is yes but it’s still much easier to hire a professional or make an effective plan first.

There are many challenges associated with any type of move, and Cento Family Moving has the solutions.

Understanding Small Moves

A small move may, mistakenly, be thought of as a simpler moving process. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Though it’s not as many items, there are still pieces of furniture, a moving truck, specialty items, and planning just like a large move.

Take into consideration the distance of the move and the logistics of packing as well. Small load moves that are staying within the same city often require less planning and fewer resources compared to long distance moves. But small long distance moves or cross country moves involve much more planning, detailed travel routes, timing, and a look at the legal requirements of moving a small load across state lines.

Although there is a difference between the amount of items in a small move vs a large move, that’s really the only difference.

Benefits of Small Moves

Moving is going to be daunting. But there are some benefits to small moves that people don’t dread as much as a large home move.

• Cost-Effective: Small moves involve fewer items so they often cost less than large moves. A good moving company will offer full service moving solutions, which include even the smallest of moves.
• Flexibility: Depending on the distance of your move, a small move comes with increased flexibility on date and times of your move. You may be pleased to find that a reliable moving company can even fit your move date in with sudden moves or tight schedules.
• Simplicity: The organizing and packing process for a small move is often less stressful than moving a multi-bedroom house. It’s also more simple to unpack a couple of rooms rather than a plethora of boxes waiting for you. It’s also more likely that you’ll be able to forgo a storage unit for a small move.

Challenges of Small Long Distance and Cross Country Moves

Despite their benefits, small long distance and cross country moves come with challenges of their own which is why it’s important to vet small load moving companies as soon as you know you’re moving.

• Moving Options: Not all moving companies are skilled nor willing to cater to small moves. Especially for longer distances. It’s important to call a local moving company right away to ask about their services. Inquire about pricing because some companies will not be less expensive than a large move.
• Cost: Though a small move should be less expensive, if you’re factoring in long distance the prices will begin to increase. The higher cost is due to travel distance, mileage on the truck, gas, and possible overnight stays for the moving team. Make sure you make a detailed budget to keep your expenses on track.
• Packing: No matter how small or large your move is, proper packing is always essential. You may want to invest in a moving company that has both moving and packing experience for optimal protection of your items.

Tips for Planning a Small Move

• Declutter: Even though it’s already a small amount of items, you don’t want to take anything unnecessary. Reduce the number of items you own by selling, donating, or throwing them out.
• Small Load Movers: Select a moving company that has wonderful reviews and are not afraid to show them. If you’re unsure what to look for, ask a lot of questions. A red flag is a moving company that won’t answer your questions or seems annoyed that you’re asking them in the first place. Make sure they are licensed and insured as well.
• Pack Smart: Use only high quality items to protect your belongings. This is especially important for fragile items.
• Essentials: Prepare a box for essentials you need immediately upon arriving at your new home. Toiletries, clothing for a few days, and basic cooking supplies are a great start.

Checklist for a Small Move

Preparation is important for any move, even small ones. Check out our comprehensive checklist to make your move as stress-free as possible.

1. Inventory: After de-cluttering, make a list of all the things you’re planning to move. Not only does it help your moving company determine a price, but it helps you to know what supplies you need to begin packing.
2. Hire Movers: Hurry! Busy moving times and days book up fast! Get multiple quotes and schedule the date.
3. Moving Supplies: Think you can use your ratty boxes from your move six years ago? Think again. There is value in sturdy moving supplies.
4. Utilities: Make sure you schedule your shut off date and turn on date at your old/new place. There’s nothing worse than paying double when you weren’t expecting it.
5. Address: When it’s close to your move, make sure to update the applicable places. This includes the post office, banks, bills, and anyone else who sends you mail.
6. Packing: Pack non-essential items first. Label boxes for easy finding later. If you’re utilizing packing services, make sure they label things accordingly.
7. Cleaning: Clean out your old residence because if there is a deposit on file, you’ll want that back.
8. Documents: Safeguard any important documents and make sure they’re easily accessible in case you need them.
9. Moving Day Kit: Make a box of moving day essentials. This could mean snacks, water, sanitizer, extra clothing, and a first aid kit.
10. Cash On Hand: If cash is the method of tipping your movers that you’ve selected, make sure you have the cash on hand. You don’t want to have to run to the bank at the last minute.

Moving Is Stressful, So Let Us Do It For You

At Cento Moving every single move is important. This goes for large scale commercial moves, all the way down to one bedroom apartment moves. We handle each client’s belongings as though they were our own.

No move is too small, so when it comes to planning your small move a checklist and adequate planning will make your day much easier.

If you’re planning a small move and need the help of experienced professionals, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are happy to help.