Short-distance moves present issues of time constraints, which at times see us overlook logistical details. It also leaves us with little chance to prepare and a tendency to underplay what it takes.
You may think you’re moving just down the street and that you’ve got it all under control, only to find that you are out of space in the boxes, stuck in traffic at rush hour, or that your sofa doesn’t fit through the door at the new place.
A local move still requires the same degree of planning, coordination, and care as a long-distance one. These tips curated by expert local movers will help make the short-distance move easier and less overwhelming.
1. Move in Shifts
If you have the time, which is at your disposal for a short distance, put it to use by breaking it up into phases.
- Transport essentials or small items gradually before the official move day.
- Pack up your car with valuables, plants, or fragile items.
- Let a local short-distance moving company in Scottsdale AZ take care of the heavy lifting on that final day.
This way, you take it slow and easy so that you or your moving team are not overwhelmed.
2. Skip Boxing Up Your Closet
Don’t put effort into folding and packing your wardrobe. The local movers’ tip is to leave clothes as they are.
- Leave them on hangers.
- Cover with a large trash bag.
- Place them in your car neatly or in a wardrobe box.
Most ‘local moving companies near me’ provide portable wardrobe boxes if you prefer that service, as it makes the transition to your new home smooth.
3. Keep the Food As Is
Unlike for long-distance moves, you don’t have to empty your fridge and pantry.
- Pack cold items in a cooler.
- Bring your frozen items right to your new home.
- Plan meals using what you already have in the fridge before and after adding to it.
If you aren’t sure what to pack, check expiration dates, and plan accordingly. A good moving company in Scottsdale, AZ, will even help load your cooler last to preserve freshness.
4. Measure Before Moving Day
In short-distance moves, it is very common to forget to take the right measurements.
Before your move:
- Measure furniture and appliances.
- Check door dimensions and stairwell and elevator proportions.
- Make sure your largest items will fit in the new space.
In the case of Scottsdale apartments and condos, which may have limited access, this is very applicable. Also, what we see from pro local movers is that they ask these questions beforehand, but you can also do the measuring yourself.
Tip: Moving into a new, smaller space? Check out our guide on efficient junk removal for before your move.
5. Declutter First, as Every Box Counts
One of the greatest benefits of a short-term move is that it gives you the chance to do away with what you don’t need.
Before packing:
- Sort your items into Keep, Donate, Sell, and Trash.
- Do not bring in extra stuff when you move, especially if you are downsizing.
- Cut down on pack time (and cost) by using local movers in Scottsdale for what you need to put in storage.
Decluttering is also an excellent way to prepare mentally.
6. Parking Strategy: The Overlooked Time-Saver
Parking can be a challenge at times in busy areas and within apartment complexes. It is important that your movers have access to:
- Your building’s loading dock (if available)
- A reserved street space,
- Clear driveway access.
Even in a short move, if your movers have to park at a distance from the entrance, that adds to time and labor. Local professional movers who are near you will often check out the route in advance to avoid such delays.
7. Book Your Local Movers Early
It is a common issue that people think local moves do not require advanced planning. Also popular are weekends and month ends, which fill up quickly.
We suggest that you book your local moving company at least 4 weeks in advance, which is also true for peak seasons of spring and summer. If you wait till the last minute to look for local movers near me, you may find the choice of what is available to be very limited (or pricey).
8. Consider a Labor-Only Option
Do you have a truck at your disposal, or do you rent a van? In Scottsdale, many short distance movers provide labor-only services.
- They’ll load and unload heavy items.
- You can save money by driving yourself.
- You will see the benefit in professional handling.
This is a flexible solution for short-distance moves.
9. Don’t Rely Only on Ads When Hiring A Local Moving Company
Not in all cases do the same services present themselves among local movers in Scottsdale.
Before you choose one:
- Read Google and Yelp reviews.
- Search out what your local customers have to say.
- Ask your friends and neighbors, and also check out local Facebook groups.
Need advice on which local mover to choose from? Check out our post on how to pick the best licensed and insured moving company.
10. Tip Local Movers Based on Service, Not Distance
For short-distance moves, a tip is customary if you are pleased with the service.
- A general rule of thumb is $20 to $50 per person for a half-day move.
- More if the crew used the stairs, lifted heavy items, or had to work in bad weather conditions.
Movers value tips, especially when they do a great job, which is a result of good communication and prep.
Final Thoughts
Short-distance moves are easy to dismiss, but they have their own set of logistical issues. You may be moving down the street or across town, but using good local professionals is a must.
Through proper planning, effective packing, and the right local moving company in Scottsdale AZ, your move can be quick, smooth, and even enjoyable.
Looking for more ways to simplify your move? Explore our complete guide for practical tips that make every step easier.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Short Distance Moves (FAQs)
- How long does a short-distance move take?
A usual 3-bedroom short-distance move (under 20 miles) takes 4 to 7 hours, which includes packing, loading, transport, and unloading. What is key in terms of time is the volume of what is being moved and access or lack thereof (like stairs, elevators, and parking). By planning, which includes decluttering, staging items, and securing parking, you may save an hour or more.
- Is hiring movers worth it, or should I DIY?
If you own a car or rent a van, go for a labor-only service, which is at a great balance point between price and performance. It’s a more affordable option than full service and also much more efficient than doing it yourself.
- What are typical labor-only rates?
Professional local moving companies may also charge from $150 to $200 per hour, which is for a two-person team (includes a truck at the full-service move). For labor only, the prices may be a little better. Also, it is something that is often not known that they charge a 2-hour minimum, which does add to the budget in the end.
- What if movers show up with fewer people than booked?
Confirm your headcount for move-in day. Talk to your local movers to determine the number of staff and the truck size. A great team will match personnel to the task at hand. If it looks like they are short-staffed, call right away to avoid delays or frustration.
- What’s the cheapest way to move just a few boxes?
For a short-distance move of 5 to 10 boxes, shipping via ground is very affordable, especially if you are not around to drive them yourself.
For more practical tips, for in-depth moving day advice, and behind-the-scenes insights from our team, check out Moving and Removing on Facebook.