Moving house: the practical guide

Getting an accurate quote

A quote is only as good as the information behind it. These are the five things that make the biggest difference:

1. Both addresses. Including the postcode, so we can plan the route and check the roads.
2. The size of the property. The number of rooms is a good start. Don't forget lofts, garages, sheds and the garden.
3. Large or awkward items. Pianos, American fridge-freezers, gym equipment, very large wardrobes or anything that needs dismantling.
4. Access at each end. Flights of stairs, lifts, narrow hallways and how far the door is from where a van can park.
5. The extras. Whether you'd like us to pack, and whether anything needs to go into storage.

Where it helps, we'll arrange to look round in person. It takes the guesswork out of the quote and means there are no surprises on the day.

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Booking and dates

In England and Wales, your completion date is usually set when contracts are exchanged, sometimes only a week or two before you move. That's why it's worth talking to a removals company early, even before your date is confirmed.

• Book provisionally as soon as you have a likely date, then confirm once you've exchanged.
• Fridays and month-ends are the busiest days for completions, so they book up first.
• Keys are often released around lunchtime on completion day. We'll plan loading so you're ready to go once they come through.
• If your date moves, tell us straight away. The sooner we know, the more likely we can adjust.

Packing well

Packing always takes longer than you think. Start a few weeks before with the things you use least: the loft, the spare room, books and out-of-season clothes.

• Heavy items in small boxes, light items in large ones. A box should be easy for one person to lift.
• Fill boxes properly. Half-empty boxes crush when stacked; fill gaps with towels, linen or paper.
• Wrap plates and glasses individually and stand plates on their edge, like records.
• Label each box on the side with the room it's going to and a few words about what's inside. Labels on top get hidden when boxes are stacked.
• Keep screws and fittings together in a sealed bag taped to the furniture they came from.
• Pack an essentials box to travel with you. There's a list below.

Access and parking

Access is the thing most likely to slow a move down, and it's easy to overlook. Have a think about both properties:

• Where will the van park? The closer to the door, the quicker and safer the move. Ask neighbours to leave space if you can.
• Is there a parking restriction? On busy roads or controlled zones you may need a parking suspension or permit. These are arranged with the local council and often need several days' notice.
• Flats and shared buildings may need the lift booked, or managing agents told in advance.
• Narrow lanes, low bridges or weight limits near either property are worth mentioning, so we can bring the right vehicle.
• Will large furniture fit? Measure tight doorways and staircases at the new property for sofas, beds and wardrobes.

Moving-day checklist

In the week before

• Confirm the date and times with us
• Arrange parking at both properties
• Defrost and dry the freezer
• Tell utility companies your moving date
• Set up post redirection
• Use up frozen and open food
• Arrange childcare or pet care for the day
• Return anything borrowed from neighbours

Keep with you on the day

• Keys, phone and chargers
• Documents and medication
• Jewellery and valuables
• Kettle, mugs, tea and snacks
• Toilet roll, soap and towels
• Bedding for the first night
• Basic tools and a torch
• Pet food, bowls and leads

Before you leave

• Take meter readings and photos
• Check every cupboard, the loft and the shed
• Close windows and lock up
• Leave keys as agreed with your agent

Moving house advice: questions and answers