Domestic removals is one of those industries, where unless you already have a clear answer to a set of questions, it can be hard to gauge how much it’s going to cost you – and that can make it difficult to budget how much it’s going to cost you to move house. Contact us for a quote if you’re looking to find out exactly how much it costs to hire a Dorset removal company, but if you’re looking for a rough idea so you know what you might need to budget and how you can reduce the amount you pay for removals, then read on! This is the guide for you.
1. What is the average cost of hiring a removals company?
(These are average numbers, correct at the time of writing on 13th August 2024)
In 2024 the average cost of removals for a 3-bedroom home in the UK is £800 based on a moving distance of 15 miles. (Zoopla)
In reality, costs can vary from around £420 for a 1-bedroom flat, to £1200+ for much larger homes.
There are also a whole lot of factors that affect this, which we’ll be going into in more detail below, but includes things like the distance you’re moving, the time of year, whether you require packing and/ or storage services, or if there are other things that might make your move particularly complex.
2. How do removal costs in the South of England compare to other regions?
Removal costs in the South of England are generally higher due to the increased cost of living, although larget cities like London may have higher costs, while rural areas might be slightly cheaper.
Although this might sound a little bit barmy, differences in pricing usually take into account the varying costs of labour, fuel, and demand across differing regions.
3. What factors influence the cost of a removals company?
Distance
This one will come as no surprise, the further the move – the higher the cost!● Volume: The amount of belongings being moved; some people just have lots of stuff, and that’s fine! But larger volumes require more manpower and bigger vehicles – so it’s definitely something to factor in.
Access
Difficulty accessing properties e.g. narrow streets with no parking can increase costs.
Additional services
Packing, dismantling/reassembling furniture, and storage services will add to the total cost, if you require more than simply just removals.
Time of year
Peak moving seasons, such as summer and weekends, can be more expensive.
Specialist removals
If you have items that can only be slowly winched down from an upstairs window, these will cost more than carrying things out of the front door.
Precious items: If you have valuable and/ or sentimental items that require extra care a and wrapping, it could take a little bit longer to get you moved, and this will often increase the cost a little.
4. Why are some removals companies more expensive than others?
Experience and reputation
Like many industries, with removals you get what you pay for. Established companies with a great track record backed up by good reviews often charge more. They may also be members of professional bodies such as the Road Haulage Association, which indicates a level of professional standards.
Quality of service
Higher prices may reflect better customer service, handling of belongings, and efficiency – definitely delve into the reputation of a removals company before you go with them though, asking people you know or local Facebook groups for recommendations is a great way to find a company you can trust.
Insurance coverage
Comprehensive insurance to protect belongings during transit can increase costs, but on the flip side of the coin, ensures you’re belongings are covered and protected as much as possible while in transit
Fleet and equipment: Companies with a modern fleet and specialised equipment may charge higher rates.
5. Are there additional fees to consider when hiring a removals company?
Packing materials
Boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper are often an extra cost, as are packing services.
Storage fees
Temporary storage services may be needed if there’s a delay in moving into the new property.
Overtime charges
If the move takes longer than expected due to weather, traffic, or any other unforeseen circumstances, additional hours may be charged.
Fuel surcharges
Some companies may add a fuel surcharge for long-distance moves.
6. How can I get the best price for a removals service in the South of England?
Book early
This isn’t always possible with house moves, but if you are able to book well in advance, this can sometimes secure you a cheaper rate.
Be flexible with dates
Moving during off-peak times when removals companies are often quieter (weekdays, mid-month) can result in lower prices.
Declutter
This might sound painfully obvious, but it’s really worth a mention – reducing the number of items to move can lower costs. Moving house is a great opportunity to have a sort-out anyway, but if you’re able to do it before your move you can definitely save yourself some pennies.
Beware! Always get a few quotes from different removal companies. This will give you a ballpark figure you’re able to work with. If you’re given a removals quote that’s a considerable amount cheaper than the others, there are some things to check.
Did they do a thorough survey of your belongings, either in person or on a video call?
If not, this can often end in tears. Sometimes it will just mean loading takes a little longer, other times it can mean possessions won’t all fit in the same van requiring an extra vehicle, extra fuel, extra man power, and some of your sanity disappearing when you’re stressed trying to leave your home by a certain time on a specific day.
What services are they providing?
To protect yourself and your move, it’s always best to work with someone who has a comprehensive contract. You’ll also be able to see from this document what level of insurance they have. More basic insurance might mean cheaper removals, but it also means less protection for your possessions, so you have to weigh up the cost/ worth-it benefit here.
7. What should included in the cost of a removals service?
Transportation
Moving your belongings from the old location to the new one.
Manpower:
The crew needed to load, transport, and unload your items. This is one of the best things about hiring a removals firm, this is what we do and what we love. That means we’re much faster than the average person! Less ‘to-me-to-you’ and more value for your money!
Basic insurance (at least)
Standard coverage for your belongings during the move.
There are additional services you may need, which most companies will happily add on to your quote for you.
Packing services
Professional packing of your items into boxes.
Dismantling and reassembling furniture
Some companies include this service in their quote, but others do not – it’s worth a check if you aren’t sure, and again should be written in your comprehensive contract document.
8. How can I save money on moving costs?
DIY packing
Pack your belongings yourself to take away the need for packing servicesSell or donate items: Reduce the volume of items being moved to lower costs.
Move during off-peak times
Mid-week, mid-month, or winter moves can often be cheaper.
Be flexible if moving cross-country
If you can be flexible with time, often removals company will have longer, cross-UK jobs, and will provide cheaper services if they can move someone on their way back. For example, if you were moving from Liverpool to Dorset, a Dorset removals firm may already be moving someone up North, and can arrange to move you on their way back, making it cheaper as they were going that way already! That’s why if you’re moving long distance, it’s also worth contacting removals companies where you’re moving to, to see if they’re doing anything like this around the time you’ll need them to.
9. What questions should I ask a removals company to understand their pricing?
Is your quote all-inclusive?
Ensure there are no hidden fees or additional costs. No-one wants to think about this, but sometimes on the day there may be additional fees if it falls through at short notice, or you’re late getting the keys. Often removals firms will allow you to pay small fees to avoid having to pay cancellation fees if the worst happens.
What insurance coverage do you offer?
Understand what is covered and any additional options available.
Are there any extra charges?
Ask about fees for stairs, parking, fuel surcharges, last-minute cancellation, late keys, or overtime.
How do you handle fragile or valuable items?
Ensure they have the experience and equipment to protect your belongings.
What is your cancellation policy?
Understand the terms if you need to cancel or reschedule your move – something which quite often needs to happen.