Key Takeaways
- Small moves are for dorms, studio apartments, tiny offices, storage, and other spaces with limited items.
- Challenges associated with small moves include navigating narrow passages in small apartments, overestimating truck space, and navigating parking and loading zones.
- You need to consider the unique needs of your move and assess your moving company options to find the best small moving package.
If you’re wondering, “Is hiring movers worth it for a small move?”, the short answer is “Yes!”
Small moves – those under 250 cubic feet, such as moving a few pieces of furniture, a dorm room, or a studio apartment—can still be time-consuming and stressful. Movers can take the load off the truck and off your mind.
The good news is that the demand for small move services continues to grow due to urbanization, the rise of minimalistic decor, and people frequently relocating. As a result, more moving companies than ever are offering small move packages. This includes Oz Moving. We offer tailored small moving packages 365 days a year.
The key to finding the best movers for a small move is to know your moving needs, assess your budget, and understand what to look for in a moving company. Below, we will guide you through all of that and more.
Understanding Small Moves
A small move is generally 250 cubic feet or less. This is common for:
- Moving from dorm rooms
- Studio apartment moves
- Small storage unit moves
- Small office moves
- Moving just a few pieces of furniture
- Moving the contents of a single bedroom or room.
Contrastingly, large moves typically exceed 250 cubic feet. This commonly includes houses, multi-bedroom apartments, and large offices.
Challenges of Small Moves
While any type of move can benefit from hiring movers, small moves come with unique challenges. These include:
- Narrow Walkups and Small Elevators – Old small apartments (such as those commonly found in NYC) tend to be difficult to maneuver larger items and furniture through.
- More Belongings Than Estimated – While it is easy to overestimate the amount of space available in any moving truck, this is particularly common with smaller trucks. A small DIY move could result in you having to leave behind furniture or take extra, unexpected trips. Strategic packing and loading are essential.
- Parking and Loading – If you’re in a multi-unit complex, like a dorm room, chances are multiple people are moving at the same time. This can make parking and maneuvering a moving truck extra tricky. The same is true for congested cities, such as if you were to move to LA.
- Downsizing – If your move is small due to downsizing, there’s a good chance you’re emotionally drained from having to pare down your belongings. This can make the rest of the move extra taxing.
Choosing the Right Small Move Service
Choosing the right moving company for your small move can make the process easier. However, bad movers can have the opposite effect.
Factors to Consider in Your Small Move Service Search
The movers you choose for your small move should be able to handle your specific moving needs. This includes the size of your move and the type of items you’re moving. Plus, they need to fit into your moving budget.
Below, we go over the factors you need to consider when hiring a moving company for your small move. We will help you assess your moving requirements and find a reputable moving company to assist you in tackling them!
Distance of the Move
If your move is small and local, a DIY move may be a viable option. However, longer trips for cross-country moving or a move to another country greatly benefit from hiring movers.
You want to ensure that the long-distance movers you hire are experienced in handling lengthy moves. They should have experience with paperwork at borders and navigating interstate rules and regulations.
Type and Fragility of Items
Movers have the supplies and expertise to move delicate or oddly shaped items. They save you from searching for the right boxes, figuring out how to pack fragile items, and transporting those items.
For antiques, fine art, and other high-end items, consider selecting a moving company that offers custom crating services. At Oz Moving, both our White Glove Moving Service and Fine Art Moving Service offer custom crates.
Budget Constraints
Hiring movers can be harder on your moving budget. However, it can also save you money. If items break during a DIY move, you are responsible for the replacement costs. However, if a moving company causes damage, moving insurance will cover the losses if purchased ahead of time.
To save money on movers, try:
- Contacting companies or checking their websites to see if they are offering any specials.
- Booking your move off-peak. Typically, winter months and the middle of the week.
- A hybrid package—where you pack and the movers load and unload your boxes.
- Shipping heavy items for long-distance moves, such as books and media.
Need for Additional Services
Figure out which services your move would benefit from best. Beyond having your belongings moved, you may also want to consider:
Packing – A moving package that takes care of boxing up your belongings can be a huge time saver. Additionally, when experts pack your belongings for transport, they are less likely to break.
White Glove Moving – This is a top-tier moving service that allows you to do the bare minimum. It may include unpacking your boxes, setting up TVs and media, hanging curtains, cleaning carpets, changing locks, and more. It goes above and beyond to get your new home move-in ready.
Furniture Assembly – Larger furniture may need to be disassembled to fit through narrow passages, doorways, and other tight areas. In many cases, new furniture can also be assembled upon request.
Storage – If you are downsizing or moving to another country, you may not be able to take all your belongings with you. In these cases, storage can be a big help. Look for a moving company that offers a discount when you book a moving and storage package.
Obtain Quotes and Read Reviews
The best way to find a good moving company for a small move is to read reviews and get quotes. While getting a moving quote can help you find a company that fits your budget, reviews will ensure you’re in good hands. In the reviews, you want to look for:
- Overall customer satisfaction
- Accounts of the company handling your type of move (small, long-distance, local, etc.)
- Indicators of how long the company has been in business
- Any complaints, specifically recurring
Look at not only the reviews on the company’s website, but also on Google Reviews, Yelp, and other third-party sites. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is also a great resource for finding reviews and verifying a company’s standing.
Look for Qualifications
Legit movers will have no issue showing their qualifications. This should include:
- Trucks licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the US Department of Transportation (USDOT)
- Accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Furthermore, a company should be able to provide you with a Certificate of Insurance (COI) when requested by your building management or owner.
Oz Moving’s Approach to Small Moves
We understand that just because a move is small, that doesn’t mean it’s simple. We give small moves the time, effort, and attention that they deserve.
Custom Small Moving Packages – Our tailored services can help you with just the heavy lifting, or we can assist with everything from boxing and storage to furniture assembly. We are committed to creating a moving package that works for you and your budget.
Commitment – Our commitment to 5-star service, flexibility, and affordability is why we have been New York’s most trusted movers for over 30 years. We take the stress out of moving, so you can concentrate on settling into your new home or office.
| “OZ was so helpful in helping me achieve my goals. I lost everything in a fire, and my small unit was all that was saved. They moved quickly and gave me a price point that was empathetic to my situation. The movers were swift, friendly, and cautious of my belongings. They made a VERY PAINFUL moment in my life, very nice and I am grateful.” – Lauren A. Koenig, Google Reviews | “I’ve used OZ several times, and every time they’ve been professional, efficient, and treated my things with the proper care. The one time I went with a “budget” mover, I regretted it and went right back with OZ for my next move. Whether it’s an hourly rate for a small move, or a flat rate for a large move, I’d go with OZ every time.” – Dan Ferrera, Google Reviews |
Contact us today to get your small moving quote. All our quotes are quick, free, and no-obligation.
It’s Time to Choose Who Will Help with Your Next Small Move
Small moves can be just as stressful as big moves, so bringing in professional help is ideal. When choosing movers for a small move, remember to do your research֫—consider your moving needs, and check the movers’ reviews and credentials.
Oz Moving has been taking the stress out of small moves for over 30 years and would be happy to help with yours! We can handle your belongings so you can concentrate on moving your pet, preparing your kids for the move, and enjoying the adventure.
FAQs About Small Moves
What qualifies as a “small move” with Oz Moving?
We define any move under 250 cubic feet as a “small move”. This commonly includes dorm rooms, bachelor apartments, single bedrooms, small storage units, and small offices.
Do you offer small move services in my area?
Oz Moving provides services in Manhattan, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Westchester, Los Angeles, and Connecticut. However, we also handle long-distance moves, interstate moves, and more.
How much does a small move cost?
The cost of a small move can range from a few hundred dollars locally to a thousand dollars or more for long-distance moves. Our pricing factors in how much needs to be moved, along with:
- Services requested (packing, furniture assembly, debris removal)
- Distance (moving distance, additional stops, proximity/accessibility to truck)
- Date and time of year (prices can fluctuate due to demand and availability)
Can I move just one or two items?
Yes. We frequently help clients move just one or two key items. Whether it’s a piano, fine art, antiques, or moving a few pieces of furniture across the country, we’re happy to help.
Are packing and unpacking services available for small moves?
Absolutely. Whether a move is big or small, we offer both packing and unpacking services.
How do I get started with a small move through Oz Moving?
The best way to start your small move with us is to get a free moving quote.
Have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us online or by phone.
