Moving into a new home is exciting—but it’s a major operation, too. Making an inventory of your belongings, coming up with a packing inventory, and finding reliable Montgomery moving companies is just the start. Then, you have to decide how to conduct your move: whether to move all at once or tackle the transition in phases.
Moving all at once is an effective method to “rip the band-aid” and wake up in your new home—but it does come with a lot of work. To help you understand the downsides and advantages of this moving method and achieve a seamless move a seamless move, we came up with this guide.
What Does “Moving All at Once” Mean?
“Moving all at once” refers to a relocation strategy where everything—people, equipment, furniture, documents, and operations—is moved from one location to another in a single, coordinated effort, typically over a short, defined period (often a day or weekend).
This is the classic move-in-a-day method. All your belongings are packed, loaded, and transported in a single trip—usually over the course of a day or weekend.
Because everything is carried out in a short period of time, all-at-once moves require a lot of planning and logistics to be successful. If not, items can be easily displaced, or accidents may delay the process, sometimes leading to extra costs.
Pros of Moving All at Once
1. Fast and Done
The biggest attraction of moving all at once is that it’s fast. Often, for home relocations, you’ll be waking up at your new home the next day. And if you hire unloading services, you can even rest during the setting-up process, which tends to be the hardest during a move.
This allows you to go back to your routine and start enjoying your new place quickly and free of trouble!
2. Less Mental Clutter
Dragging out a move over days or weeks can be mentally exhausting.
Oftentimes, phased moves involve moving your objects one by one—which can easily cause misplacements. Your phone charger or those favorite pants always end up in the box you already sent. One-day moves avoid that trouble, keeping things organized and preventing “moving fatigue.”
3. Easier to Coordinate with Movers
Professional moving companies often prefer this method—it allows for a more streamlined experience with fewer trips and clearer timelines. With phased moves, items can easily be displaced, and if the moving company didn’t carry everything at once, they may not take the responsibility for any missing objects as they can’t ensure it’s something they moved.
4. Saves on Travel Time
If you’re moving a good distance, multiple trips can add up in time and gas. One full load is typically more efficient (and less expensive) than coordinating with a busy moving company for several trips, which can be tasking and time-consuming.
Cons of Moving All at Once
1. It’s a Lot at Once
Even with movers helping, packing, loading, cleaning, and unpacking all in one go can feel chaotic—especially with kids or pets in the mix. On moving day, everything needs to be perfect. If not, delays can result in extra costs, missing objects, and a lot of frustration.
2. More Risk of Overwhelm
You’ll need to have everything packed and ready to go by moving day. That means weeks of prep—and a deadline that doesn’t budge. If you get overwhelmed by planning or struggle to meet deadlines, this may not be the best type of move for you.
3. Less Time for Sorting
A full-scope move forces quick decisions. There may be less time to donate, sell, or thoughtfully organize your belongings before the move. This can be more costly, as more items to move often end up in higher moving quotes.
Have the Perfect Move with Montgomery Moving Companies
There’s no “perfect” way to move—just the right way for you and your lifestyle. Whether you choose to move all at once for speed and efficiency or take it step-by-step for flexibility and control, planning ahead is key. And if you’re still feeling overwhelmed after all that planning, Pink Zebra Moving can help you.
We’ll create a custom plan that fits your timeline, budget, and comfort level together. From packing services to full-service moving, our team is qualified to streamline all of your needs. Find a location near you and contact us today!