How To Choose The Right Removal Company
To choose the right removal company, look for a company with great customer service, transparent pricing, proper insurance, positive reviews, and services that match your moving needs.
Moving house can be incredibly stressful. But working with the right removal company can take a huge weight off your shoulders. From safely handling your most stuff to managing the logistical headaches, the right team makes all the difference.
Still, with so many removal companies in the UK, finding the best fit for your move can feel like a lot.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know to make a smart, informed choice - whether you’re moving locally, heading across the country, or planning an international move.
Looking for a trusted removal company in the UK? Get a free quote from The Box Co. today. We handle the hard part so you don’t have to.
Step 1: Start with Customer Service
Your first impression of a removal company is the most important. When you contact them - whether by phone, email or through an online form - pay attention to how they respond.
Are they polite, helpful, and willing to answer your questions clearly? Or do they rush you, use vague language, or seem pushy?
Good customer service is usually a sign that the team will handle your move with the same level of professionalism. Trust your instincts - if something feels off, keep looking.
Step 2: Understand What Services Are Available
Not all removal companies offer the same type of service. Some provide transport, while others can take care of the entire process for you - from packing and loading to storage and unpacking.
If you’re moving fragile items like artwork, musical instruments, or antiques, check whether the company has experience handling them. You might also want to ask if they provide boxes or packing materials, and whether they’re happy to take down and reassemble furniture on the day.
Step 3: Check Insurance and Accreditations
A good removal company should be fully insured, with policies that cover both your stuff and their staff.
The two key types of insurance to look out for are Goods in Transit (which protects your items during the move) and Public Liability (which covers accidental damage or injury on the day).
Step 4: Ask for a Quote - and Read the Fine Print
Once you’ve shortlisted a few companies, it’s time to request a quote. The best removal companies will either carry out a home survey or ask for more information about your move before giving a firm price.
Be wary of vague or generic estimates - they’re often too good to be true and could lead to unexpected charges later.
A clear quote should lay out exactly what’s included and what’s not. You should also be given a contract that explains payment terms, timelines, handling policies, and what happens in the event of delays or cancellations.
Make sure you read everything carefully before signing. If anything’s unclear, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
Step 5: Check Reviews and Recommendations
Before you commit, it’s always a good idea to look up reviews. Sites like Google, Trustpilot and removal-specific platforms such as ReallyMoving can give you a clearer picture of a company’s reputation.
Keep an eye out for recurring themes - positive mentions of professionalism, punctuality and care are reassuring. Negative patterns, like damaged items or unresponsive customer service, are red flags.
It’s also worth asking friends, family or your estate agent if they’ve worked with any companies they’d recommend.
Step 6: Plan Ahead And Book Early
Timing matters. Ideally, you should book your removal company four to six weeks before your moving day, especially if you’re moving during a busy period such as school holidays, bank holiday weekends or the end of the month.
For international moves or particularly complex situations, booking even earlier is a smart idea. Early bookings not only guarantee availability - they can also help you secure better rates and give you time to plan properly.
Step 7: Understand the Costs
Removal costs in the UK can go up and down based on distance, volume, and complexity.
A local move from a one-bedroom flat might cost between £300 and £600, while moving the contents of a three-bedroom house could run from £600 to £1,200 or more. Long-distance or cross-country moves tend to cost more, especially if overnight storage or specialist handling is needed too.
Don’t forget to factor in extras like packing services, storage, or disassembling and reassembling furniture. These can add anywhere from £150 to £500+ depending on what you need.
Always request a fully itemised quote from more than one provider. Comparing quotes side by side helps you work out what you’re really paying for - and gives you confidence that you're getting fair value for your money.
Average UK Removal Costs (2025 Estimates)
1-bed flat, local move: £300–£600
3-bed house, local move: £600–£1,200
Long-distance move: £1,000–£2,500+
Packing service: Add £150–£500
Storage: From £20/week for a small unit or 79p per box with The Box Co.
Step 8: Prepare For The Big Day
Once you’ve booked your removal company, it’s time to get organised.
On the day, it helps to keep a box of essentials close by, including important documents, medications, snacks, and a change of clothes.
Clearly label your boxes and consider photographing the wiring behind electronics before you disconnect them - anything that makes unpacking easier is a win.
If your movers are packing for you, they’ll often bring their own materials and do it all on the day. But if you’re packing yourself, aim to have everything boxed and labelled at least 24 hours in advance.
Step 9: Know Your Rights (and Your Contract)
Before moving day arrives, make sure you know the terms of your contract. You should know exactly what’s included, what happens if there’s a delay, and whether there are any cancellation fees if your plans change.
Life happens - and sometimes, moving dates shift. Choosing a removal company with a fair, flexible cancellation policy can save you a lot of stress and money if the unexpected happens.
A Great Move Starts with the Right Team
Finding the right removal company might take a little time - but it’s time well spent. By focusing on customer service, checking insurance, comparing quotes, and planning ahead, you’ll set yourself up for a move that’s as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Remember: this is more than just a logistics job. It’s your home, your memories, and your peace of mind. Choose a company that respects that - and you’ll be in good hands.
Looking for a trusted removal company in the UK? Get a free quote from The Box Co. today. We handle the hard part so you don’t have to.
