Timing your move correctly can be the difference between a stress-free transition and a chaotic rush. Booking a removals company isn’t just a task on your to-do list—it’s a key part of your entire moving strategy. The sooner you secure your preferred provider, the more flexibility and support you’ll have to make moving day a success. From planning logistics to accessing professional guidance, an early booking can simplify every stage of your move.
This guide explains when to book your removals team, what to consider during each season, and how to navigate unique circumstances like last-minute relocations or moves abroad.
Why Booking Early Matters
There are several practical reasons why early booking is recommended. It secures your spot with a trusted provider, especially during busy seasons when dates fill quickly. It also allows for home surveys, better planning of resources, and gives you peace of mind knowing you won’t be scrambling for help at the last minute.
By securing your removals company ahead of time, you can:
- Coordinate better with solicitors, estate agents, and landlords
- Arrange access at both properties without time pressure
- Secure necessary parking permits or notify neighbours in advance
- Access early-bird pricing or discounts from some companies
- Allow time for packing assistance or specialist equipment if needed
Being proactive with your booking can lead to smoother communication and fewer surprises closer to your moving date.
Standard UK House Moves
For most house moves within the same city or county, removals companies typically recommend booking about four to six weeks ahead. This gives both you and the removals provider ample time to schedule a pre-move assessment, create an inventory, and plan a route that avoids delays or complications.
It also ensures you have enough time to gather packing materials, label your items properly, and prepare your new home if any cleaning or maintenance work is required before moving in.
At Three Counties Moves, we encourage you to contact us as soon as you have an estimated time frame. Even if your exchange date is still pending, we can tentatively reserve your desired date and follow up to confirm once things are finalised. This flexible approach helps reduce stress during a time when many aspects of your move might still be uncertain.
Peak Periods and High-Demand Seasons
Certain times of the year are more popular for moving, which means demand for removals services surges. Summer holidays, bank holiday weekends, school breaks, and the final week of any month are often peak periods.
During these busy times, it’s essential to plan well in advance. Booking eight to twelve weeks ahead gives you the best chance of securing your preferred moving date and time. Fridays, in particular, book up quickly, especially for families trying to move before the weekend.
Where possible, consider opting for a mid-week or mid-month move. Not only is availability more flexible, but some removals companies may also offer better rates outside of peak days. Our team at Three Counties Moves is happy to discuss off-peak options to help keep your move within budget.
Long-Distance and International Moves
If you’re relocating to another part of the UK or overseas, preparation becomes even more critical. These moves often involve logistics like overnight transport, ferry crossings, customs clearance, and coordination with international carriers.
We recommend booking at least eight to twelve weeks ahead for cross-country moves, and three to six months ahead for international relocations. This allows time for planning freight, arranging proper documentation, and ensuring everything is packed to meet border and shipping requirements.
Three Counties Moves offers full support for long-distance and overseas moves. From initial planning to final delivery, our experienced team handles the process with precision and care.
Last-Minute Moves
While advance notice is ideal, we understand that not all moves come with weeks of lead time. Whether it’s due to a quick job relocation, a landlord change, or a personal emergency, last-minute moves can still be handled professionally.
In these situations, we recommend contacting us as soon as your moving date becomes clear. We will check our availability, offer a quote quickly, and provide a realistic timeline for services. Although availability may be more limited during peak seasons, we always do our best to accommodate urgent requests with the same level of care and service.
If you’re in a bind and need reliable removals help fast, Three Counties Moves is ready to support you.
Booking Before Exchange
It’s common for clients to hesitate when booking a removals company before exchanging contracts. While it’s important to avoid committing to non-refundable costs without certainty, there’s still value in initiating contact early.
We offer provisional bookings that give you the security of having a slot reserved without making a full financial commitment. Once you’ve exchanged contracts and know your completion date, we’ll finalise the plan and make sure everything is in place. This flexible approach gives you time to prepare while keeping your move on track.
Our team can also guide you through the moving process during this waiting period, helping you organise packing, insurance, and anything else you might need.
Payments and Cancellation
Payment policies can vary between removals companies, but most will require a deposit to hold your date, with the balance due shortly before or on the day of the move. Make sure to clarify these terms when booking.
At Three Counties Moves, we’re transparent about all charges from the start. If your plans change, let us know as early as possible. We aim to provide flexible solutions and will work with you to reschedule or adjust services where possible, helping you avoid unnecessary stress or fees.
Summary Table: When to Book
| Type of Move | Recommended Booking Time |
| Local/Standard Move | 4 to 6 weeks before moving day |
| Peak Time Move (e.g. summer) | 8 to 12 weeks in advance |
| Long-Distance Move | 8 to 12 weeks ahead |
| International Move | 3 to 6 months in advance |
| Last-Minute Move | As soon as possible |
Final Thoughts
Booking your removals company well in advance not only gives you peace of mind, but it also allows you to plan thoroughly, budget effectively, and ensure everything goes smoothly on moving day. While every move is different, aiming to book four to six weeks ahead is a sensible starting point for most local relocations.
For busier times of the year or more complex moves, don’t hesitate to plan further in advance. And remember, if something comes up last-minute, reliable support is still available.
To begin planning your move with confidence, reach out to Three Counties Moves. Call us today on 0800 699 0001 or email [email protected]. Our experienced and friendly team is here to help you organise a seamless and stress-free move, no matter the size or distance.
