Moving house is rarely cheap — but with the right approach, you can cut costs significantly without compromising on a smooth, stress-free move. Whether you’re moving across London or relocating to a new area entirely, here are the most effective ways to keep your moving costs down.
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1. Move on a Weekday Instead of a Weekend
Weekends are the busiest and most expensive time for removal companies. If your schedule allows it, booking a move for a Tuesday or Wednesday can save you a noticeable amount, simply because demand is lower.
2. Avoid the End of the Month
Most tenancies and many house sales complete at the end of the month, which means removal companies are in highest demand during this period. Moving mid-month, where possible, often comes with better availability and pricing.
3. Choose a Man and Van Service for Smaller Moves
If you’re moving a studio flat, a single room, or just a handful of large items, a full removal team may be more than you need. A man and van service is typically charged by the hour and works out far cheaper for smaller jobs.
- Man and van (per hour) — from £55–£65/hr
- Full removal team (2-bed house) — from £320+
4. Pack Your Own Boxes
Packing services are convenient, but they add to the overall cost. If you have the time, packing your own non-fragile items — books, clothes, kitchenware — can reduce your bill considerably. Save the professional packing for fragile or high-value items only.
5. Declutter Before You Move
The less you move, the less you pay. Removal costs are often based on volume and time, so selling, donating, or recycling items you no longer need before moving day can directly reduce your quote.
6. Get Multiple Quotes — But Compare Fairly
Always get at least two or three quotes before booking. However, don’t just pick the cheapest — make sure each company is fully insured and has genuine reviews. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value if it comes with hidden risks. (Read our guide on red flags to watch for when comparing removal companies.)
7. Book in Advance
Last-minute bookings can sometimes come with a premium, especially during peak season (summer months and end of month). Booking a few weeks ahead generally gives you access to better rates and more availability.
8. Source Free Packing Materials
Boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper can add up quickly if bought new. Ask local shops for spare boxes, check community groups for people giving away moving supplies, or reuse boxes from a previous move.
9. Bundle Services Where Possible
If you also need end of tenancy cleaning or storage, bundling these with your removal company can often be cheaper than booking each service separately with different providers.
How Much Does a Removal Actually Cost?
As a general guide across the UK:
- Man and van (per hour) — from £55–£65/hr
- 1-bedroom flat — from £220–£250
- 2-bedroom house — from £320–£360
- 3-bedroom house — from £480–£520
Want a full breakdown specific to London? Read our complete guide: How Much Does It Cost to Move in London? A Complete Breakdown.
Save Money Without Cutting Corners
Van Moving Specialists offers transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees — so you know exactly what you’re paying for from the start.
- ✅ Free, no-obligation quotes
- ✅ Man and van options for smaller moves
- ✅ Flexible weekday and off-peak availability
- ✅ Bundle removals with packing or end of tenancy cleaning
- ✅ Over 62 five-star Google reviews
Get your free quote today and see how much you could save.
Frequently Asked Questions
What day is the cheapest for removals?
Weekdays, particularly mid-week, are usually cheaper than weekends due to lower demand.
Is it cheaper to move yourself or hire a removal company?
Moving yourself can save money on smaller moves, but factor in van hire, fuel, time off work, and the risk of damage without insurance. For most house moves, a man and van service offers a good balance of cost and convenience.
How can I reduce the cost of a house removal?
Declutter before moving, pack non-fragile items yourself, book on a weekday, avoid end-of-month dates, and compare multiple quotes from insured, well-reviewed companies.
Are man and van services cheaper than full removal companies?
For smaller moves — studio flats, single rooms, or a few large items — man and van services are typically more cost-effective than booking a full removal team.
Van Moving Specialists — Transparent pricing, no hidden fees. Call 020 3105 0053 for a free quote today.
