Moving house can be stressful, even without the challenge of packing up your entire life. While it might seem cheaper to do it yourself, you risk damaging your belongings and wasting valuable time. Hiring professional movers means everything is handled safely, efficiently, and with full Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance for peace of mind.
Removal companies don’t just move boxes — they manage every step of your move, from packing and loading to transport and unpacking. Below, we’ll explain exactly what removal companies do, whether they provide boxes, removal company costs, and why it’s worth hiring the professionals
What Does a Removal Company Do?
A removal company helps people move their belongings from one property to another. They’ll plan, pack, load, transport, unload, and even reassemble your furniture so your move runs smoothly.
Most movers start with a pre-move survey, where they assess the size of your home, access points, and any special requirements such as heavy or fragile items. This ensures they can provide an accurate quote and the right number of movers and vans.
Typical services included:
Packing and unpacking
Loading and unloading
Dismantling and reassembling furniture
Short or Long-term storage
Specialist item handling (pianos, artwork, antiques)
Optional cleaning or clearance services
Reduce Your Removal Costs by £600
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Do Removal Companies Provide Boxes?
Yes, most removal companies provide packing boxes and materials.
Boxes are often included in a full-packing service and available to purchase separately if you’re packing yourself.
Typical materials provided:
- Double-walled moving boxes
- Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
- Bubble wrap, tissue paper, and packing tape
- Mattress and sofa covers
- TV or mirror boxes for fragile items
Always ask how many boxes are included and whether unused boxes can be returned. If you only want certain rooms packed (like the kitchen), request a part-pack service to save money.
What Services Do Removal Companies Offer?
Professional movers do much more than drive a van. Most provide flexible service levels depending on your needs and budget.
Core services:
- Packing and unpacking (full, part, or self-pack)
- Secure transportation with trained crews
- Furniture dismantling and reassembly
- Short- and long-term storage
- Specialist handling for fragile or high-value items
- Office and international moves
- Optional house clearance and recycling
When comparing quotes, check what’s included in the price and whether packing materials or storage fees are extra.
If your move has special requirements, always let your removal company know when you request a removal quote. Reputable movers will usually tailor their service to meet your needs.
How the Removal Process Works
Every move follows three main stages:
Before Your Move
- Pre-move survey to assess furniture size, parking, and access
- Packing choice: self-pack, part-pack, or full service
- Decluttering to cut costs and reduce load size
- Confirm insurance and moving date with your chosen company
On Moving Day
- Movers arrive early and protect floors and doorways
- Large and heavy items are loaded first for balance
- Boxes are labelled by room for easy unpacking
- All items are secured and covered during transit
After Delivery
- Unloading and furniture reassembly
- Optional unpacking and placement of boxes
- Collection or recycling of used boxes and packing materials
A well-planned move ensures your belongings arrive safely and on time, so you can settle in faster.
Industry Insight: Get the Details Right Early
"One of the best ways to avoid delays or unexpected costs is to give your removal company as much detail as possible before the move. Make sure your address shows correctly on Google Maps, especially for new-build or remote properties. If it does not, sharing a What3Words location can help. It is also worth checking the inventory your mover has prepared so nothing is missed and they can plan the right vehicle and crew for the job."
Taylor Rafferty, Company Director, All Moves UK
Reduce Your Removal Costs by £600
Insured, professional companies
Used by over 1.8m UK movers
How Much Does a Removal Company Cost?
Your final cost depends on distance, property size, and services chosen.
Average UK removal prices:
| Property size | Local move | Long-distance |
|---|---|---|
| 1-bed flat | £400 - £800 | £800 - £1,200 |
| 2-bed house | £600 - £1,600 | £1,000 - £1,600 |
| 3-bed house | £800 - £1,600 | £1,400 - £2,000 |
| 4+ bed house | £1,200 - £2,500+ | £2,000 - £3,000+ |
Ways to keep costs down:
- Declutter before moving day
- Choose a mid-week or off-peak date
- Opt for part-pack instead of full-pack service
- Compare multiple quotes (we can help you do this easily)
Why Hire a Professional Removal Company?
While moving yourself might seem cheaper, hiring professional often saves money overall by avoiding damage and delays.
Key benefits:
1. Save Time
Movers handle packing, transport, and setup.
2. Fully insured
Every Compare My Move partner includes Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance.
3. Right equipment
Vans, straps, dollies, and blankets protect your belongings.
4. Peace of Mind
Fewer risks, less stress, and a smoother moving day.
Professional removal teams have the experience and tools to complete your move quickly and safely, giving you time to focus on your new home.
Reduce Your Removal Costs by £600
Insured, professional companies
Used by over 1.8m UK movers
Compare Removal Quotes Near You
Used by over 1.8 million UK movers, Compare My Move connects you with up to 6 trusted and verified removal companies in your area. Save up to £600 on your move and enjoy a smoother, stress-free experience.
FAQ
Do removal companies provide boxes?
Yes. Most removal companies include packing boxes and materials as part of a full-packing service. If you’re self-packing, boxes can usually be purchased separately or rented.
Do removal companies pack everything?
Most will pack everything except valuables, personal documents, money, or perishables, for insurance reasons. Always confirm what’s included before booking.
Are removal companies insured?
Yes, reputable movers carry Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance. Make sure to review removal companies and always check your quote includes both and ask for proof of cover if unsure.
When should I book a removal company?
Ideally 4–6 weeks before your moving date is when you should book a removal company or earlier if moving during school holidays or on a Friday (peak times for removals).
