Removal firm, man and van, or do it yourself?
Pick the option that fits how much you own and how far you're going, get two or three quotes, and book 4 to 6 weeks ahead. Fridays and month-ends go first.
- When
- 4 to 6 weeks before you move
- How long
- About 30 minutes to compare and book
- Cost
- Varies a lot with distance, volume and date
What you'll need
- Your move date, with a back-up date if you can
- A rough list of large furniture and how many boxes
- Details of stairs, lifts and parking at both ends
What to do
Choose the type of move
A removal company suits a whole house: they bring a crew and can pack for you. A man and van suits a flat or a room. Hiring a van yourself is cheapest if you have help and don't mind the lifting.
Get two or three quotes
Give each firm the same details so you can compare them fairly. For a house move, ask for a home or video survey so the quote isn't a guess.
Check what's included
Ask about packing, boxes, dismantling furniture, insurance for your things, and extra charges for stairs, long carries or waiting time.
Sort parking and access
If there's no parking outside, ask your council about a parking suspension for the van. Do it early, because councils need notice.
Book, and get it in writing
Confirm the date, the price and what happens if your move date changes, which matters if you're buying and waiting on completion.
If you skip this
Leave it late and the firms or vans you want may be booked for your date. You'll have fewer choices, and they'll cost more.
Questions people ask
- Is there a cheaper day to move?
- Midweek and mid-month are usually quieter than Fridays, weekends and month-ends, so there's more choice and often a better price.
- Are my things insured during the move?
- Ask the firm what its cover includes and its limits. Check your own contents insurance too: some policies cover a move and some don't.
This is one job. There are about twenty more.
Tell us when and where you're moving and get the full list, in the order to do it.
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