Two to four weeks before
- •Book your mover and confirm the date in writing.
- •Start decluttering — the less you move, the less it costs.
- •Order boxes and packing materials if you are packing yourself.
- •Notify your landlord or estate agent and confirm key handover times at both ends.
Sort parking — the London-specific bit
This is what most people forget. Across central and inner London, controlled parking zones mean there is nowhere legal for the van to wait, and main roads are often red routes where stopping is banned in the daytime.
For anything bigger than a small load, apply to the relevant council for a parking bay suspension or dispensation outside your address — these usually need a week or two of notice. A reserved space by the door shortens the carry, which saves you money as well as hassle.
ULEZ and your van
The Ultra Low Emission Zone now covers all London boroughs. A non-compliant vehicle is charged daily, so make sure your mover uses ULEZ-compliant vans — ours are — and that any charge is not quietly passed on to you. This applies everywhere in Greater London, not just the centre.
Time it around congestion
Where your dates are flexible, avoid weekend and rush-hour windows in busy areas — Camden Market, Greenwich town centre, the Hammersmith gyratory and similar pinch points can swallow an hour. A weekday morning slot is usually cheaper and faster, and avoids the weekend surcharge.
The day before
- •Finish packing and label boxes by room.
- •Keep an essentials bag (chargers, documents, kettle, toiletries) with you, not in the van.
- •Defrost the fridge/freezer and disconnect appliances.
- •Confirm arrival time and access details with your mover.
On move day
- •Be ready when the team arrives — waiting time is chargeable.
- •Walk the mover through anything fragile or high-value.
- •Take meter readings at both properties.
- •Do a final empty-room check before you hand back the keys.