Removals questions and answers
Quick answers on costs, booking, insurance and moving day.
- Professional, vetted moversRegistered, insured and checked
- Compare the quotesPrice, reviews and what is included
- Free, no obligationYou choose who to book
Costs
How much does a man and van cost in London?
Most London man and van jobs cost roughly £40 to £80 per hour, usually with a one or two hour minimum. Stairs, parking and distance can change the price.
How much does a house removal cost?
A one-bedroom move often costs £250 to £500, a three-bedroom house £600 to £1,200 and a four-bedroom house £900 to £1,800 for a local move. Long distance moves cost more.
What makes removal prices go up?
Volume, distance, stairs and poor access, busy dates such as Fridays and month ends, packing and storage, and any congestion or clean air zone charges.
Are quotes fixed or estimates?
Some are fixed and some are estimates. Ask the company which type it is, and what could change the price on the day.
Do I pay upfront for removals?
Many companies take a deposit to secure the date, with the balance on the day or after. Ask what is refundable and get it in writing.
How can I keep removal costs down?
Compare quotes, be flexible on dates, declutter, pack yourself and give accurate access details. See our guide to saving money when you move.
Booking
How far ahead should I book?
Book 4 to 6 weeks ahead for a house move. Man and van drivers can often do next-day or same-day jobs, but Fridays and month ends fill up first.
Do I need to give my phone number?
Yes. Removal companies near you may call to confirm details and give an accurate quote. We share your details with up to 5 vetted removal companies matched to your move.
How many quotes should I get?
Three to five is a good range. CompareMover matches your request with up to 5 suitable removal companies.
Can I change or cancel a booking?
Check the cancellation terms in your quote. Contact the company as early as possible if your plans change.
Do I need storage when moving?
Not always. If your sale and purchase dates differ, you may need short-term storage. See removals and storage.
How many quotes will I get?
You can compare up to 5 removal companies that cover your route. We match your request with suitable companies, and they contact you by email or phone.
Why do you need my phone number?
Local companies may call you to confirm details and give an accurate quote. We share your details with up to 5 vetted removal companies matched to your move.
Insurance and safety
Are removal companies insured?
Every company on CompareMover must show goods in transit insurance before joining. Always check the cover level for high-value items. See our guide to removals insurance.
What if something is damaged?
Take photos, note it on the paperwork and report it to the company straight away. Follow the company's claims process and keep all evidence.
What will removal companies not move?
Usually hazardous items, pets, plants and perishable food. See what removal companies will not move.
How do I avoid removal scams?
Get written quotes, check company details and insurance, avoid large cash deposits and read recent reviews. See our guide to removal scams and red flags.
What happens if a removal company breaks something?
Report it straight away and take photos. If the company is insured, the claim goes to its insurer. Check the claims process and time limits before you book.
Can removal companies move specialist or high-value items?
Some can. Pianos, safes and art need specialist handling. Tell the company early and check the insurance limit.
Are there trade associations for removal companies?
Yes. The British Association of Removers is one. Membership is a useful signal but not a guarantee, so check insurance and reviews too.
On the day
Do I need to be there?
Be there if you can, or send someone you trust. You will need to show the crew what is going and sign off the inventory.
Do I have to tip the movers?
No. It is optional. See our tipping guide.
What should I pack myself?
Valuables, documents, medicines and an essentials box for the first night. See our packing guide.
What size van do I need?
A small van suits a few items or a room. A medium van fits a studio or 1-bed. A large or Luton van suits 2 to 3 bedrooms. Try the van size calculator.
Do removal companies pack clothes?
Many do, if you ask for packing. Some will move clothes on hangers in wardrobe boxes. Say what you need when you request quotes.
Do I need to empty drawers before the move?
It depends on the company. Lightweight items can often stay, but heavy or breakable things should come out. Ask your company.
Do removal companies disconnect washing machines?
Some will, and some will not. Many ask you to disconnect appliances beforehand. Ask when you book.
Where will the removal van park?
Ideally right outside. In London you may need a parking suspension from the council. See our guide to parking suspensions.
How long does it take to empty a house?
A small flat can take a few hours and a family house most of a day, depending on access and packing. See our guide on how long a move takes.
What happens if there is a delay getting the keys?
Tell your removal company straight away. Many can wait or reschedule, but there may be a charge. Ask about their policy before you book.
Coverage
Which areas do you cover?
CompareMover covers the whole UK, including every London borough, Surrey and the major cities. See all areas.
Are office and commercial moves covered?
Yes. See our office moves page and our office relocation checklist.
Can I get storage as well?
Yes. Mention storage in your request. See removals and storage.
