The best day to move house: when it is cheaper and easier
Mid-week and mid-month usually win on price and availability.
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Demand for removals peaks on Fridays, at month end and in summer. When many people want a van, prices rise and good companies are booked. Choosing a quieter slot often helps.
Days that tend to be easier
- Tuesday to Thursday.
- The middle of the month rather than the last days.
- Autumn and winter outside holidays.
Days that tend to be busier
- Fridays, which are popular with completion dates.
- The last week of the month, when tenancies end.
- School holidays and summer weekends.
When your date is fixed
If completion fixes your date, book early and ask about start times. Our completion day guide explains why moves often start late on Friday.
When you can choose
Ask companies for a price on two or three dates. Compare up to 5 quotes and enter a flexible date to see the difference. See also the cheapest time to move.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sunday cheaper for removals?
Some companies offer lower rates or none at all on Sundays. Ask for a quote.
Is winter cheaper?
Often, as demand is lower, but weather can affect access and daylight.
Should I move on the day of completion?
You usually have to, but keys may arrive late. Plan for an afternoon start.
Related guides
- What is the cheapest time to move house in the UK?
- Completion day explained: what happens and what to do
- How to save money when you move house
Prices and rules in this guide are general guides and change over time. Check GOV.UK or a qualified adviser for your own situation.
Weekday or weekend?
Most people want to move at the weekend, so weekends and Fridays are the busiest and often the dearest. A midweek move, Tuesday to Thursday, is usually easier to book, cheaper and less stressful, because roads and parking are quieter and companies have more availability. The catch is work: you may need a day off, and school and childcare can complicate things. If you can take the time, a midweek move can save money and give you the pick of crews.
Think about the time of the month and year
- Month ends. Many tenancies and sales end at the end of the month, so demand peaks.
- Summer and school holidays. Families move when children are off school, so the summer is the busiest season.
- Bank holidays. High demand and sometimes higher prices.
- Winter. Quieter and often cheaper, but daylight is shorter and weather can slow the day. Start early.
- Mid-month and early in the month. Usually easier to book.
Your own constraints come first
If you are buying or selling, your date is set by the legal process. If you rent, it is set by your tenancy. Aim for a moving day that gives you time to settle before work, and avoid moving on the last day of a tenancy, when delays leave you with nowhere to go. If you are moving with children or pets, think about their routine.
Time of day
An early start gives the crew the whole day and avoids the afternoon rush hour. In busy cities, parking is easier early in the morning. If you are waiting for keys, confirm the time they will be released. See completion day explained.
See also the cheapest time to move house and the moving day timeline.
Common questions
What is the best day to move house?
A midweek day, Tuesday to Thursday, is usually cheapest and easiest to book. It also has quieter roads.
Is it cheaper to move in winter?
Often, yes, as demand is lower. Allow for shorter days and weather.
Should I avoid moving on the last day of the month?
If you can, yes. It is the busiest day for removal companies, and any delay can leave you with nowhere to go.
