Six weeks out
- Get 3–5 quotes from vetted long-distance movers. Compare fixed prices, not hourly.
- Confirm Goods-in-Transit limits — for a 3-bed house, aim for £50,000+ cover.
- Book parking suspensions at both ends if either postcode has permit-only streets.
Three weeks out
- Start decluttering room by room. Sell, donate or dump anything you wouldn't unpack.
- Order packing materials or book a full-pack service (adds £220–£480 for a 3-bed).
- Notify utilities, council tax, doctor, DVLA and your bank of the moving date.
Move week
- Pack an essentials box: kettle, mugs, chargers, medications, one set of bedding per person.
- Photograph valuables and read your inventory before and after the move.
- Keep passports, jewellery and documents with you — never in the removal van.
How long-distance is priced
- Base fee for the crew + van + insurance (typically £280–£450).
- Per-mile rate (£0.80–£1.60/mile for a Luton van; higher for HGV loads).
- Time on site at each end (loading and unloading, £45–£70/hour per crew member).
- Add-ons: packing, storage-in-transit, dismantle/reassemble, piano or safe handling.