How much will house removals cost?

As a rough guide, the cost of a removal is usually based on a number of combined factors :

• Volume (amount) of belongings you're moving
• Access at both properties
• Distance of the move
• Your preferences for your move plan
• Additional services you select - i.e packing services, dismantling/reassembling of items or handyman or housemaid services.

How soon should I book a removal company?

Generally speaking, it's recommended you start contacting removal companies around 4-6 weeks prior to your arranged move date.

If you're buying and/or selling this may be your completion date and you'll likely know when this is once you have or are about to exchange contracts and are reaching the end of your sale process. This ensures you've got plenty of time to arrange a pre-move survey and get an accurate quotation. However, don't panic if you're moving at short notice as some companies will have flexible resources that allow for last minute moves.

And remember that it's never too early to contact a removal company for help or advice - most will only be too happy to help you and answer any questions you might have about your upcoming move.

Do I pack my own belongings, or do the removal company do the packing for me?

It's entirely up to you what you choose to do regarding the packing of your goods - if you're happy to pack your own items and are confident in doing so then that's absolutely fine, but the removal company can usually do it for you if you want them to. Consider:

Do you have a large amount of furniture and personal effects to be moved?
Are you short on time?
Would you like the peace of mind of professional packing to reduce the risk of damage?
Have you got any awkward, delicate or fragile pieces you need help with?

You can usually choose from self packing, full packing or even customise your quote and ask for just selected items to be packed for you.

What do I have to do on moving day?

On moving day you or a representative need to be present at the property. The removal crew will arrive at the agreed time and will almost always require a quick walk around the house with you to receive any instructions you might have - this is where it's up to you to point out things like delicate or heavy items to watch out for, items that are not to be moved or rooms that you want left until last.
After everything is packed and loaded onto the van, you will be asked to do a final walk around the property to check that everything has been removed as you wish and there is nothing left behind. Once you reach your new property and the crew have unloaded, you'll be asked to complete some simple paperwork to confirm that the move has been carried out to your satisfaction.

Don't forget to make sure that you've prepared an essentials box prior to moving day and have made all the necessary provisions for any children or pets that will be accompanying you on the day.