When Is the Best Time to Move House in London?
The date you choose to move house matters more than most people realise. In London, removal companies can be fully booked weeks in advance on peak dates, and prices on the busiest days can be 20–25% higher than mid-week equivalents. Here's exactly when to move — and when to avoid — to save money and reduce stress.
Best Day of the Week to Move
Mid-week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) is consistently the cheapest and least congested time to hire a removal company in London. Here's why:
- Friday is the single busiest day for removals — it accounts for more than a third of all London moves
- Monday is the second busiest, especially at the start and end of months
- Weekend moves attract premium rates from most companies
- Mid-week removals often have shorter lead times for booking
If your lease or completion date is flexible by even one or two days, choosing a Wednesday move can make a meaningful difference to both cost and availability.
Best Time of Month
The end of the month is overwhelmingly the busiest period for removals in London. This is driven by:
- Tenancy agreements that run to the last day of the month
- Mortgage completions that cluster around month-end dates
- End-of-quarter dates (March, June, September, December) being especially busy
The middle two weeks of the month — roughly the 10th to the 20th — are the quietest period and offer the best availability and most competitive pricing. If you're in a chain, try to negotiate a mid-month completion date.
Best Time of Year
Peak Season: May–September
Summer is the busiest period for house moves in London, driven by families wanting to settle before the new school year and the generally better weather. Prices are at their highest and availability is lowest from June through August. If you must move in summer, book at least 3–4 weeks in advance.
Off-Peak Value: October–March
Autumn and winter moves offer the best prices and the most available slots. January and February are particularly quiet — many removal companies will negotiate on price to fill their calendars. The trade-off is shorter daylight hours and the possibility of wet or cold weather.
The Sweet Spot: April and October
These shoulder months offer a good balance: better weather than winter, lower prices than peak summer, and reasonable availability. April (after Easter) and October are often cited by removal professionals as the ideal time to move for value and convenience.
Time of Day: Does It Matter?
Most removal companies start at 8am. An early start means you can be unloading by lunchtime and have the afternoon to begin unpacking. Avoid requesting late-afternoon starts if you're moving a large property — running into overtime charges is common.
London-Specific Considerations
- Congestion Charge (7am–6pm, Mon–Fri): If your move route passes through the Congestion Zone, the charge is £15/day. Some removal companies absorb this; others pass it on. Confirm before booking.
- Parking suspensions: In inner London boroughs, you may need to apply for a parking suspension on your street to ensure the van can park close. This takes 3–7 working days to arrange and costs £50–£100 depending on the council. Book early.
- School-run traffic: Avoid starting a move at 8–9am or 3–4pm in residential areas — school traffic adds significant time to a job.
Ready to Book Your Move?
Once you've confirmed your ideal date, locking in your removal company early guarantees your slot. Get a free quote from Metro City moves London — we'll confirm availability and send a fixed price within hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest day to hire a removal company in London?
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are consistently the cheapest days. Friday is the most expensive, often 15–25% more than mid-week rates.
Is it cheaper to move house in winter in London?
Yes. January and February are the cheapest months. You can often negotiate a better rate or secure a last-minute slot more easily. The main drawbacks are shorter daylight hours and colder, wetter weather.
How far in advance should I book a removal company in London?
For summer moves or end-of-month dates, book 3–4 weeks ahead. For mid-week, off-peak moves, 1–2 weeks is usually sufficient.