Cheap removals: how to get a low price without the risk
The cheapest quote is not always the best. Here is how to get a fair, low price.
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How to pay less for your move
- Compare up to 5 quotes. The price gap between companies can be large. Start comparing.
- Be flexible on the date. Mid-week and mid-month are usually cheaper. See the best day to move house.
- Move less. Sell, donate or clear what you do not need. See house clearance.
- Pack some things yourself. Use our packing guide.
- Consider a man and van for a small move. See man and van or removal company.
- Give accurate details. Surprise stairs and extra items raise prices on the day.
Watch out for very cheap quotes
- No insurance, or a very low limit.
- No written quote or company details.
- A large cash deposit.
- Extra charges added on the day.
Read about removal scams and red flags and how to save money when you move.
Typical prices
See our removal costs page and man and van prices per hour for a guide, then compare real quotes for your move.
What "cheap removals" really means
Everyone wants a low price, and there are real ways to get one. But the cheapest quote is not always the lowest cost. A price that is far below every other quote often means a smaller crew, a vehicle that is too small, no insurance, extras added on the day, or a company that does not turn up. The goal is a fair price for a reliable job, so that you pay once and the job is done. Comparing several quotes for the same move is the single best way to find that fair price.
Ten ways to cut the cost of a move
- Compare at least three quotes. The same move can vary by hundreds of pounds between companies.
- Choose a quiet day. Midweek and mid-month are usually cheaper than Fridays, weekends and month ends. See the cheapest time to move house.
- Move less. Sell, donate or recycle what you do not need before you ask for quotes. Less volume means a smaller vehicle and less time.
- Pack it yourself. A packing service is useful but it is one of the biggest extras. Pack well and label every box. See how to pack.
- Get free boxes, but use sturdy ones. Supermarkets and shops may give boxes away, but weak boxes cause damage. Buy a few strong ones for heavy items and books.
- Dismantle furniture before the crew arrives. Time costs money, and disassembly can add an hour to the job.
- Make access easy. Clear the hallway, book the lift, and tell the company where they can park. Parking problems are a common reason for extra time.
- Be flexible on timing. A company may offer a lower price for a day when its vehicle would be empty, or a return-load route for a long journey.
- Consider a man and van for a small move. It is often much cheaper than a full team. See man and van.
- Ask for a fixed price. It removes the risk of the job running over, and it is easier to compare.
More ideas are in how to save money when you move house and saving on bills when you move.
Cheap removals in London
London prices are higher because of parking restrictions, traffic, congestion and emission charges and the cost of running a vehicle in the city. You can still cut the cost by being flexible on the date, choosing a company based close to your address (so the company spends less time travelling) and giving precise access details. If you are moving a short distance, a man and van with a helper is often the lowest-cost option. See our London boroughs pages for local advice.
What to check on a cheap quote
- Insurance. Ask for proof of goods in transit and public liability cover. A company with no insurance can leave you with the loss.
- What is included. Fuel, VAT, parking, packing materials, dismantling, and the number of people.
- The company. A real company name, a registered address and recent reviews.
- Payment terms. Be careful of requests for a large cash payment upfront. Pay by a traceable method and keep the paperwork.
- Cancellation. Know what happens if you change the date.
Our guide to removal scams and red flags lists the warning signs.
Do-it-yourself or a removal company?
A DIY move with a hired van looks cheap, but the real cost includes the van, fuel, insurance for the van, equipment such as trolleys and blankets, time off work, the risk of damage and the physical effort. For a small move it can be a good choice. For a bigger one, a professional crew often costs only a little more and is quicker and safer. See DIY move or removal company.
Cheap does not mean careless
You can have a cost-effective move and a careful one. Get written quotes, check cover, read reviews and ask about extras before you book. Our checks on companies and our guide to choosing a removal company help you find a good value company and not just the lowest price.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to move house?
Move less, pack yourself, choose a quiet date and compare several quotes. A man and van is often cheaper for smaller moves.
Is the cheapest removal company the best?
Not always. A very low price can mean no insurance or extra charges later. Compare what is included.
When is the cheapest time to move?
Mid-week and mid-month, outside school holidays, are often cheaper.
What is the cheapest way to move house?
For small moves, a man and van with careful planning is usually the cheapest. For larger moves, the cheapest overall cost often comes from comparing several quotes, moving midweek, packing yourself and reducing what you move.
Is it cheaper to move midweek?
Often, yes. Fridays, weekends, month ends and school holidays are the busiest and usually cost more. A midweek, mid-month move gives you the best chance of a lower price.
How can I tell if a quote is too cheap?
If it is far lower than every other quote, ask why. Check insurance, the crew size, what is included and whether the company has recent reviews and a real address.
Should I pay a deposit?
A small deposit is common for larger bookings. Avoid paying the full amount in advance, pay by a traceable method, and get the terms in writing.
Are hidden charges common?
They can be, particularly on very low quotes. Ask whether the price is fixed and what could add to it, such as stairs, parking, waiting time, packing materials or extra items.
