7 Ways to Save Money When You Move House

Moving home in the UK costs around £17,600* on average once you add up stamp duty, legal fees, estate agent fees, removals, and other expenses. That’s a lot of money, which means a few smart choices can make a real difference to your bottom line.

Buying a property in Wigan, Leigh or Hindley will probably be the biggest purchase of your life, but the move itself doesn’t have to drain your savings. At Casa Real Estate, clients regularly ask us how to keep removal costs down, so we’ve pulled together our best tips for saving money on moving day.

*Average cost shown for illustration only. Actual costs vary depending on purchase or sale price, location, and other factors.

1. Declutter Before You Pack

Why pay to transport things you no longer want or need? Sorting through your belongings before you book a removal company means fewer boxes to buy, less to load, and potentially fewer hours on the removal team’s bill.

The same goes for storage: fewer boxes means you can get away with a smaller, cheaper unit. Even better, selling your unwanted items before the move puts a bit of extra cash towards your costs.

2. Shop Around for Removals

Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get several quotes from local removal companies and compare them side by side. Read their reviews too, so you can be confident you’re handing your belongings to a trustworthy team.

3. Book Early

The sooner you reserve your removal team, the better, particularly if you’re moving around a bank holiday or during peak season. Booking early helps you plan your budget with confidence and gives you the best chance of securing your first-choice company.

4. Ask About Discounts

Some removal firms offer reduced rates for armed forces personnel, key workers, students, or pensioners. Check each company’s website, and don’t be shy about phoning to ask what discounts are available.

5. Cut Down on Packing Materials

Where you can, use second-hand boxes or rent them from your removal company. Skip the bubble wrap, too: towels, blankets, clothing, and other soft furnishings work brilliantly for protecting fragile items, and it’s a greener option.

6. Take Apart Large Furniture Yourself

Dismantling beds and other bulky furniture yourself is cheaper than paying the removal company to do it. If the team has to take apart anything that won’t fit through your doors, expect to pay extra.

7. Keep to Your Schedule

If you hold up the removal team on the day, you could be charged for their lost time. Make sure everything is packed well in advance, access to your property is clear, and appliances like your washing machine and dishwasher are disconnected before they arrive. A well-organised moving day helps you avoid surprise charges.