Moving house is always a challenge, but having to move at short notice can make the process even more stressful. At Van Moving Specialists, we help customers across London with moves of different sizes and timescales.
Alongside these last minute moving tips, our guide on preparing your home for a move covers the wider moving process. If your moving date is approaching quickly, here are some practical steps to help you get organised.
1. Research Moving Companies
Even when time is limited, take a little time to research removal companies before booking. Check recent customer reviews, the services offered and whether the company can accommodate the requirements of your move.
You can learn more about Van Moving Specialists or read our complete guide to choosing a removal company near you for additional guidance.
2. Ask for Recommendations
If you’re in a rush, recommendations from friends, family or colleagues who have moved recently can help narrow down your options.
Personal recommendations can be useful, but you should still check the company yourself and make sure it can provide the service you need.
3. Check Availability for Your Moving Date
Availability can be more limited when booking at short notice, particularly during busy periods.
Contact removal companies as soon as you know your moving date. When requesting availability, provide your collection and delivery postcodes, preferred date and time, and an indication of what needs to be moved.
Van Moving Specialists can check availability based on the details of your move.
4. Request Clear Quotes
Before booking, ask for a clear quote based on the actual requirements of your move.
Provide as much information as possible, including:
- Collection and delivery postcodes.
- Moving date and preferred time.
- A list or photos of the items.
- Details of stairs or lifts.
- Parking or access restrictions.
- Furniture that may require dismantling.
- Any packing or additional services required.
If necessary, we can also help with furniture dismantling and reassembly.
Providing accurate information makes it easier for a removals company to assess the job and prepare an appropriate quote.
5. Confirm the Services You Need
A short-notice move becomes easier when everyone understands what needs to be done before moving day.
Depending on your move, you may require help with packing, loading, transport, unloading, furniture dismantling or reassembly.
Confirm these requirements when requesting your quote rather than waiting until moving day.
6. Check Additional Charges
Ask what is included in your quote and whether any additional charges could apply.
Depending on the job, additional costs could include parking, congestion or road charges, additional time, packing materials or disposal services.
Understanding what is included before confirming the booking can help avoid surprises later.
7. Check Insurance Cover
Before booking a removals company, ask what insurance cover applies to your move and check any relevant terms or exclusions.
Van Moving Specialists carries Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance for the moving services we provide.
8. Confirm All the Details
Before moving day, confirm the important details with your removals company, including the collection address, delivery address, date, preferred time and services required.
If you’re moving from a flat or apartment building, also check whether you need to reserve a lift, loading bay or parking space.
Clear communication is particularly important when organising a last-minute move.
Need Help Moving at Short Notice?
Van Moving Specialists provides house removals and man and van services across London, including moves arranged at short notice when availability allows.
Send us your collection and delivery postcodes, moving date and a list or photos of the items you need to move. We’ll use those details to check the requirements of the job and prepare a tailored quote.
Check whether you need to arrange parking or a suspension with the relevant local council. You can find your local council on GOV.UK.
