Using a professional removal company can make a huge difference to your move. Not only does it reduce the stress of moving house, but it also gives you more time to focus on other parts of your move, from signing paperwork to settling in.
Additionally, hiring experts to handle heavy, awkward, or valuable items can reduce the risk of injury and protect your belongings. Read more on our guide on what do removal companies do.
Compare My Move was built on removals expertise, with our founder Dave Sayce, starting his career in the industry. Drawing on years of experience and insight from our top-rated, verified partners, here’s our expert guide on how to choose the best removal company for your move.
Quick Checklist: What to Look for in a Removal Company
Before you book, make sure your removal company meets these key standards:
- Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance (ask for proof)
- Bristish Association of Movers (BAR) or Move Assured accreditation for professional standards
- Pre-move survey (in-home or video) to assess your property
- Clear, written quote covering packing, dismantling, and key-wait fees
- Consistent 4.5+ reviews and strong local reputation
- Good communication from booking to move-in day
Compare up to 6 verified removal companies near you and save time. Each are fully insured and checked by Compare My Move.
1. Compare Quotes and Services
Get at least three quotes around 4–6 weeks before your move, giving you time to compare removal quotes and ensure availability.
If you’re buying a home, your move date might depend on the property chain, so it’s important to plan early.
Keep in mind that Fridays and school holidays are the busiest and most expensive times to move.
Comparing multiple quotes helps you understand what’s included, from packing and storage options to furniture dismantling or white-glove delivery.
2. Check Experience, Specialisation, and Equipment
Review each company’s “About Us” section and social profiles:
- How long have they been in business?
- Do they handle your type of move (local movers, long distance movers, or specialist)?
- Are their vehicles well-maintained and branded?
- Do they use protective materials like blankets and wrap?
Experienced movers with reliable, well-equipped vans and trained teams are far less likely to damage your belongings.
3. Confirm Insurance Coverage
Always ensure your removal company has both Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance. These cover your belongings during the move and any accidental damage or injury on the day.
If you’re moving internationally, check they also provide marine cargo insurance or equivalent international cover.
Reputable movers should be willing to show written proof of insurance.
4. Check Accrediations and Memberships
A company’s accreditations show how professional and trustworthy they are.
Look out for:
- The British Association of Removers (BAR)
- Move Assured
- Road Haulage Association (RHA)
- FIDI Global Alliance
These organisations set strict codes of conduct and offer dispute resolution services, giving you extra peace of mind.
5. Ask for a Pre-Move Survey
A good removal company will arrange a home or video survey before giving a final quote. This lets them gauge the size of your move, parking access, and any special challenges.
Be upfront about anything that could affect your move, such as narrow roads, multiple flights of stairs, or parking restrictions.
If they skip the survey or only give a rough estimate, that’s a red flag.
6. Company Availability and Communication
Excellent communication is key during a move. Choose a company that:
- Responds quickly to messages
- Provides a clear schedule for collection and delivery
- Offers flexibility if dates change
Good service starts at the quote stage and continues until the last box is unpacked.
Save an Average of £600 on Removals
Insured, professional companies
Used by over 1.8m UK movers
7. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Independent reviews can reveal which ones are the best moving companies.
Look for consistent mentions of punctuality, professionalism, and care.
You can also ask friends, family, or neighbours about their experiences, word-of-mouth recommendations often highlight reliable local firms.
8. Understand Additional Services
Most removal companies tailor their services to your needs. Common extras include:
- Packing and unpacking services
- Furniture dismantling and reassembly
- Short-term or long-term storage
- Supply of packing materials
These can simplify your move and reduce stress, especially for larger homes.
9. Review Their Cancellation and Delay Policies
Ask about cancellation terms before you book. Some companies charge fees or keep deposits if your move date changes.
Also check delay or key-wait charges, many movers now offer a flat “key-wait waiver” to cover waiting time on completion day, which is often cheaper than hourly rates.
10. Watch Out for Red Flags
Avoid any company that:
Requests cash-only payments
Doesn't have a registered address or website
Refuses to show insurance or accreditation
Provides vague, verbal quotes
Won't visit your property or offer a video survey
Choosing a company that's transparent and accredited is the best way to prevent stress and hidden costs.
How Much Does a Removal Company Cost?
From our data, the average UK house removal cost for a 3-bedroom home is £1,203.
However, costs depend on:
- Volume of goods
- Distance and access
- Additional services like packing or storage
For smaller moves, man with a van services average around £400, while full-service removals for large homes can exceed £1,500.
Packing services typically add £350–£400 to your total.
Compare free quotes to find a fair price and ensure you’re paying for a fully insured, verified mover.
Prices are based on our cost data, received directly from user feedback.
Hiring a Removal Company vs Doing it Yourself
While hiring professionals costs more upfront, it saves time, protects your belongings, and reduces physical strain. DIY moves often require multiple van trips and carry a higher risk of damage, plus, self-moving typically isn’t insured.
A reputable company offers trained staff, the right equipment, and full Goods in Transit cover for peace of mind.
Using Compare My Move to Find the Right Removal Company
By comparing with Compare My Move, you can find the best-value removal company in your area.
Our partners are:
- Fully insured (Goods in Transit & Public Liability)
- Verified and vetted through a strict approval process
- Monitored for ongoing service quality
Fill out our quick removals form to get quotes from up to 6 trusted local movers.
You’ll speak directly with professionals who can plan your move, handle your belongings safely, and ensure a smooth experience from start to finish.
Save an Average of £600 on Removals
Insured, professional companies
Used by over 1.8m UK movers
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing a removal company?
Proof of insurance, proper accreditations, good reviews, a clear written quote, and strong communication throughout the process.
When should I book a removal company?
Aim to book 4–6 weeks before moving day. For peak times (Fridays and holidays), secure your slot even earlier.
Do removal companies pack for you?
Yes. Many offer professional packing and can supply materials for an additional cost.
How many quotes should I get?
At least three, ideally after an in-home or video survey, so you can compare like-for-like services and pricing.
Are all removal companies insured?
No, always ask for proof of Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance before booking.
