subject: How Moving Companies Handle Small Shipments ? [print this page] Moving companies merge shipments in order to most efficiently use a truck's space any blank space is a loss for the mover. So if a mover can part together in several shipments or get a small shipment to fill out the load, it makes the moving company happy.
However, as that the client, you might not be as happy. You will probably pay more per pound for hundred pounds, as for the most part movers like to calculate charges, to ship a small load. Many movers will charge for a minimum amount of weight (often around 2100 pounds) or a minimum amount of time for any weight they pick up.
So even if your load weighs little, you might get charged for a top amount; similar goes for time. Like so many things, the mover has certain open cost that is always there, no matter what the weight of the shipment. Also, some movers will charge an additional fee to transport your items from your home to their warehouse to hold it for a moving van headed in the direction of where you desire your items shipped.
You will also be somewhat at the kindness of the mover's loading and delivery schedule because it's a small load, you might not have much latitude over when you can get the shipment picked up, moved, and/or delivered. Often, because your small shipment is being combined with additional shipments, it is not always easy for the mover to locate your exact dates.
Still, it never hurts to ask if a moving company is paying attention in handling your small shipment. Even though you might give more to have it done, you will have trained professionals moving your belongings and you will be secure doing all of the work yourself.
Also, you will have options for caring your items against damage while in the mover's possession. When you do the move yourself, all the responsibility falls back on you.
