Will A Moving Company Move One Item?

Need to move just one piece of furniture across the country? Whether it's a cherished family heirloom, an expensive dining set, or that perfect couch you found online, moving a single item presents unique challenges that many traditional moving companies simply won't handle efficiently or affordably.

The short answer is yes, moving companies will move one item – but finding the right single item movers who specialize in this service can save you hundreds of dollars and countless headaches.

Quick Answer: Single Item Moving Options

Best Solutions for Moving One Item:

• Specialized single item movers: $150 - $800 depending on size and distance
• Traditional full-service movers: $400 - $1,500+ (often with high minimums)
• Freight shipping: $200 - $600 for large furniture
• White glove delivery services: $300 - $1,200 for premium handling

For detailed cost comparisons and pricing factors, see our comprehensive small load shipping pricing guide.

Key Factors Affecting Cost:

• Item size, weight, and fragility
• Distance traveled
• Pickup and delivery accessibility
• Time sensitivity and scheduling flexibility

Why Traditional Moving Companies Struggle with Single Items

Most major moving companies are designed for full household relocations, which creates several problems for single item moves:

High Minimum Charges

Traditional van lines typically have minimum weight requirements of 1,000-3,000 pounds, meaning you'll pay for space you don't use. For example:

• Major Van Line Minimum: $2,500 for a cross-country move
• Actual Single Item Cost: Should be $400-800
• Your Overpayment: Up to $2,100 for unused truck space

Inefficient Scheduling

Full-service movers prioritize large moves, often leaving single item customers with:

• Limited scheduling options
• Longer wait times
• Less flexible delivery windows
• Higher "rush job" premiums

Lack of Specialization

Moving one piece of furniture requires different expertise than household relocations:

• Specialized packing for individual items
• Efficient consolidation with other single-item shipments
• Route optimization for cost-effectiveness
• Experience with unique item handling

Types of Items Perfect for Single Item Moving Services

Large Furniture Pieces

Most Common Single Item Moves:

• Dining room sets and tables
• Sofas, sectionals, and recliners
• Bedroom sets and mattresses
• Entertainment centers and armoires
• Antique furniture and heirlooms
• Piano and musical instruments

Average Costs by Item Type:

• Sofa/Sectional: $300-700 long distance
• Dining Set: $400-900 depending on size
• Bedroom Set: $500-1,200 for complete set
• Piano: $800-2,500 (requires specialized handling)
• Single Mattress Set: $200-500

Specialty Items

• Artwork and sculptures
• Appliances (refrigerators, washers, dryers)
• Exercise equipment
• Office furniture
• Collectibles and antiques

How to Find Reliable Single Item Movers

What to Look For in Single Item Moving Companies

Essential Qualifications:

• Experience with consolidation shipping
• No minimum weight requirements
• Transparent, item-based pricing
• Proper licensing and insurance
• Positive reviews specifically for single item moves

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Quotes significantly below market rates
• Large upfront deposits required
• No physical address or licensing information
• Poor communication or customer reviews
• Minimum weight charges for single items

Questions to Ask Potential Single Item Movers

Pricing and Service:

• "Do you have minimum weight or size requirements?"
• "What's included in your base price?"
• "How do you protect single items during consolidated shipping?"
• "What's your typical delivery timeframe for single items?"

Logistics and Handling:

• "Do you offer professional packing services?"
• "Can you handle stairs, elevators, or tight doorways?"
• "What insurance options are available?"
• "Do you provide tracking and communication updates?"

Single Item Moving Methods Explained

1. Specialized Single Item Movers

Best For: Most furniture pieces, cost-conscious customersHow It Works: Companies consolidate multiple single-item shipments in the same truckPros:

• No minimum weight charges
• Cost-effective pricing
• Experience with individual item handling
• Professional packing and protection

Typical Process:

1. Free quote based on item description and photos
2. Professional pickup with proper packing
3. Consolidation with other compatible shipments
4. Tracking and updates throughout transit
5. Professional delivery and placement

2. LTL (Less Than Truckload) Freight

Best For: Large, heavy items that don't require white-glove handlingHow It Works: Your item shares truck space with other freight shipmentsPros:

• Cost-effective for large items
• Wide network coverage
• Reliable scheduling

Cons:

• Limited handling (usually dock-to-dock)
• May require freight terminal pickup
• Less protection than specialized furniture movers

3. White Glove Delivery Services

Best For: Valuable, fragile, or antique itemsHow It Works: Premium service with expert packing, handling, and setupServices Include:

• Professional packing and crating
• Climate-controlled transportation
• Inside delivery and placement
• Assembly and setup if needed
• Removal of packing materials

Investment: 50-100% more than standard service, but includes comprehensive protection

Cost Breakdown: Single Item Moving Across Distances

Local Single Item Moving (Under 100 Miles)

Typical Costs:

• Small furniture (chairs, nightstands): $75-200
• Medium furniture (dressers, small sofas): $150-400
• Large furniture (dining sets, sectionals): $250-600

Factors Affecting Local Costs:

• Stairs and accessibility challenges
• Distance from truck to door
• Assembly/disassembly requirements
• Time of day and week

Long Distance Single Item Moving (500+ Miles)

Cross-Country Examples:

• Los Angeles to New York:
  • Single sofa: $400-700
  • Dining room set: $600-1,100
  • Bedroom set: $800-1,400
• Chicago to Miami:
  • Single dresser: $300-550
  • Large sectional: $500-900
  • Piano: $1,200-2,500

Regional Routes (200-500 Miles):

• Generally 30-50% less than cross-country rates
• Popular routes often have better pricing due to volume

Money-Saving Strategies for Single Item Moves

Looking to save even more on your single item move? Our 7 money-saving methods to ship furniture out of state cheap provides additional cost-cutting techniques.

1. Timing Optimization

Off-Peak Seasons (November-March):

• Save 20-40% compared to summer rates
• Better availability and scheduling flexibility
• Avoid peak moving season premiums

Mid-Week Scheduling:

• Monday-Thursday pickups often cost 10-20% less
• Avoid weekend and month-end premiums
• More flexible delivery windows

2. Flexible Delivery Options

Delivery Window Flexibility:

• 1-2 week delivery windows: Standard pricing
• 3-5 day windows: 15-25% premium
• Next-day/expedited: 50-100% premium

Delivery Location Options:

• Curbside delivery: Standard rate
• Inside delivery: $50-150 additional
• White glove placement: $100-300 additional

3. Proper Preparation

Pack Smart:

• Disassemble when possible to reduce size
• Remove drawers and loose components
• Take photos for insurance documentation

For comprehensive packing and protection strategies, check out our guide on how to ship furniture safely to ensure your single item arrives in perfect condition.

Accurate Measurements:

• Provide precise dimensions for accurate quotes
• Measure doorways and stairwells for access
• Note any special handling requirements upfront

Insurance and Protection for Single Item Moves

Standard Coverage Limitations

Most carriers provide basic liability coverage of 60 cents per pound, which means:

• $2,000 dining set = $120 maximum coverage
• $1,500 sofa = $90 maximum coverage
• $3,000 antique armoire = $150 maximum coverage

Enhanced Protection Options

Full Value Protection:

• Covers repair or replacement cost
• Typically 1-3% of declared value
• Recommended for items over $1,000

Third-Party Insurance:

• Often more comprehensive than carrier options
• May cost less than carrier insurance
• Separate claims process

Documentation Requirements:

• Photos of item before packing
• Original receipts or appraisals
• Detailed condition reports

When NOT to Use Single Item Movers

DIY Alternatives Make More Sense

For Small, Lightweight Items:

• Items under 50 pounds that you can handle safely
• Short distances (under 100 miles)
• Items with low replacement cost

Budget Alternatives:

• Rent a pickup truck or small trailer
• Friend with a truck and helping hands
• Ship via freight carrier to local terminal

Multiple Items Scenario

If you have several pieces of furniture, consider:

• Combining into a small load shipment
• Potentially better per-item pricing
• Single pickup and delivery appointment
• Coordinated timing and logistics

For moves involving multiple items or partial households, our small load moving services may be more cost-effective than individual item shipments. Also review our 5 dos and don'ts for moving small loads across country to avoid common mistakes.

Ship Smart: Your Single Item Moving Solution

Why Ship Smart Excels at Single Item Moves

30+ Years of Single Item Expertise:

• Specialized in small loads and individual furniture pieces
• No minimum weight requirements or arbitrary charges
• Professional consolidation services optimize costs

Comprehensive Service Options:

• Professional packing and protection
• Real-time tracking and communication
• Flexible pickup and delivery scheduling
• Multiple insurance and protection options
• Specialized college moving services for students relocating with individual furniture pieces

Transparent, Competitive Pricing:

• Pay only for space your item actually uses
• No hidden fees or surprise charges
• All-inclusive quotes with clear terms
• Average savings of 60% compared to traditional van lines

Ship Smart Single Item Moving Process

1. Free Consultation and Quote

• Detailed item assessment via photos and description
• Transparent pricing with all costs included
• No obligation, no pressure approach

2. Professional Pickup

• Experienced team handles packing and protection
• Proper equipment for safe loading
• Documentation and photos for your records

3. Secure Transportation

• Consolidation with compatible shipments
• Climate-controlled trucks when needed
• Real-time tracking and regular updates

4. Professional Delivery

• Scheduled delivery window confirmation
• Inside delivery and placement available
• Unpacking and setup services if requested

Real Customer Success Stories

Case Study 1: Antique Dining Set

• Item: 1920s mahogany dining set (8 pieces)
• Route: Boston to Seattle
• Ship Smart Cost: $1,350
• Traditional Mover Quote: $3,800
• Customer Savings: $2,450 (64% less)
• Result: Perfect condition delivery in 12 days

Case Study 2: Sectional Sofa

• Item: Large L-shaped sectional sofa
• Route: Miami to Denver
• Ship Smart Cost: $675
• Van Line Quote: $2,200 (minimum charge)
• Customer Savings: $1,525 (69% less)
• Result: White-glove delivery and setup

Getting Started with Your Single Item Move

Preparation Checklist

Before Getting Quotes:

• Measure item dimensions (L x W x H)
• Take photos from multiple angles
• Note any special handling requirements
• Determine pickup and delivery accessibility
• Set realistic timeline expectations

Information to Provide:

• Exact pickup and delivery addresses
• Item description, dimensions, and weight (estimated)
• Preferred pickup and delivery dates
• Any special requirements (stairs, elevators, assembly)
• Insurance and protection preferences

What to Expect from Professional Single Item Movers

Timeline Expectations:

• Quote response: Same day or within 24 hours
• Pickup scheduling: 3-7 days advance notice
• Transit time: 1-3 weeks depending on distance
• Delivery appointment: 24-48 hour advance notice

Communication Standards:

• Clear, written quotes with all costs included
• Regular updates during transit
• Professional, courteous service
• Responsive customer support

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will movers really move just one piece of furniture?A: Yes, specialized single item movers like Ship Smart handle individual furniture pieces regularly. Traditional full-service movers may be less accommodating due to minimum charges.

Q: How much does it cost to move one piece of furniture long distance?A: Costs typically range from $300-1,200 depending on the item size, weight, distance, and service level. This is significantly less than traditional movers' minimum charges.

Q: How long does single item moving take?A: Transit times usually range from 1-3 weeks for long-distance moves, depending on route optimization and consolidation schedules.

Q: Do I need special insurance for moving one item?A: Standard coverage (60¢/pound) is often inadequate. Consider enhanced protection for valuable items over $1,000.

Q: Can movers handle stairs and tight spaces?A: Professional single item movers have experience with challenging access situations and proper equipment for safe navigation.

Q: Can I ship furniture internationally as a single item?A: Yes, Ship Smart handles international single item shipments. For Canadian customers, see our detailed guide on shipping furniture from Canada to US which covers customs requirements and cost considerations.

Conclusion: Making Single Item Moving Simple

Moving one piece of furniture doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. The key is choosing a mover that specializes in single item shipments rather than trying to fit your needs into a traditional full-service moving model.

Key Takeaways:

• Specialized single item movers offer better value than traditional movers
• Proper preparation and accurate information ensure smooth service
• Enhanced insurance protection is worth considering for valuable items
• Timing and flexibility can significantly impact costs
• Professional handling protects your investment

Ready to Move Your Single Item?

Ship Smart's specialized small load moving services include expert single item moving solutions that have helped thousands of customers move individual furniture pieces across the country safely and affordably. Our furniture shipping expertise and large item moving capabilities ensure professional handling without minimum charges or hidden fees.

Get Your Free Quote Today:Contact Ship Smart for a personalized single item moving quote. Our experienced team will assess your specific needs and provide a comprehensive solution that saves you money while ensuring your furniture arrives safely at its destination.

With over 30 years of experience in small load and single item moving, Ship Smart is your trusted partner for moving one piece of furniture across town or across the country. Let us show you why thousands of customers choose Ship Smart for their single item moving needs.

Ship Smart - Making single item moves simple, affordable, and stress-free since 1992.