How to Move House at Short Notice
There are various situations that may require a last-minute move, whether due to issues with landlords, work commitments, or unexpected opportunities. While it may feel overwhelming, relocating on short notice is possible with proper organisation.
When time is limited, organisation and careful planning become crucial. The first step is to find a reliable removal company that can ensure a smooth, stress-free move. At Omni Removals, we can connect you with up to 6 local movers to help you compare removal quotes and find the right one for you.
After securing a reputable moving company, the next step is to prepare and get organised. Moving at short notice can be stressful, but with our helpful guide, we’ll provide you with last-minute moving tips to make the process more manageable.
How Much Notice Do Removal Companies Need?
Ideally, you should book a removal company 4-6 weeks before your moving date. If you’re organising a long-distance move or an office relocation, it’s even better to give more notice.
However, last-minute moves are possible depending on the company. If you need to book a move with less than a week’s notice, it’s best to start reaching out to removal companies at least 7 days before your desired date. If you need an even shorter timeline, make sure to call around and compare your options.
Organising a last-minute house move can be easier during quieter periods, as there’s less competition for available time slots. For example, our research found that Sunday is the least popular day to move in the UK, meaning you’re more likely to find availability with many removal companies.
On the other hand, during busier periods, especially Fridays, it’s important to compare removal quotes from different companies. Some may have last-minute availability due to cancellations. Avoid booking a Friday move if you're in a hurry, as it’s the busiest day of the week for moving, with higher competition for time slots.
1. Create a Plan to Get You Started
Starting a last-minute removal can feel overwhelming, but with a solid plan, it becomes manageable. Don’t waste time stressing—take a moment to create a moving house checklist and walk through your home to assess what needs to be moved, and what can be left behind. Decide which items need to be packed, donated, or thrown away to reduce your load.
Make a list of tasks you need to do and prioritise them. These tasks include booking a removal company, contacting family and friends for help, arranging utilities, and completing a change of address checklist. While it may seem like a long to-do list, once you start ticking off tasks, the process will feel more organised and less stressful. By creating a detailed checklist, you’ll be able to manage your last-minute move with ease.
2. Book a Removal Company Immediately
While it's typically recommended to book your removal company weeks in advance, it's still possible to arrange a move at short notice. During quieter periods, removal companies may have availability, and even during busy times, cancellations can free up spots. So, choose the best day to move house, set your date, and stick to it.
With limited time to organise, hiring a removal company can make all the difference. They’ll handle everything, no matter the time constraints, and you’ll be covered by removals insurance for any potential damages during the move.
Omni Removals' free online service saves you time by connecting you with the most professional and experienced removal companies in your area. Instead of wasting time searching the internet, you’ll find trusted removal teams all in one place. All of our removal partners undergo a thorough verification process, ensuring you work only with reliable professionals.
3. Manage Your Time
Stay mindful of your time and stay focused during the move. While it’s important to stay calm and enjoy the process, avoid unnecessary delays. Pack one room at a time, and when deciding on items, don’t linger—either keep them or let them go. Being decisive will save you time and effort.
Research and compare removal companies quickly, but don’t waste time endlessly searching. Choose a company as soon as possible. If you’re worried about taking too long, set a timer to help you stick to your personal deadline and stay on track.
4. Begin Packing as Soon as Possible
For a successful last-minute move, it’s crucial to start as early as possible. Many moving companies offer packing services along with removals, which can help speed up the process. There are plenty of reputable moving companies in London and across the UK. Taking advantage of this service ensures a smoother relocation, as they can come ahead of the moving day to professionally pack your belongings.
As you prepare, remember to pack the essential items you'll need right away and keep them with you in the car. To make the packing process more efficient, take the time to quickly clean and declutter your home. Go through each item and decide what to keep and what to leave behind. The fewer items you have to pack, the less time and money you’ll spend on the move.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
A removal company's assistance can be a huge time-saver, but don't hesitate to ask for help from others during your last-minute move. Neighbours, friends, and family members are often willing to lend a hand, and the more people you have helping, the faster the process will go.
Those close to you will understand your situation and want to support you. While the removal company can handle the packing, loading, and unloading, your friends and family can assist with organising and decluttering before the move. They can also help care for children or pets during the transition, or even take unwanted items off your hands. Plus, they might be able to help transport plants or other tricky items that require extra attention.
6. Consider Using a Storage Unit
Utilising self-storage can be incredibly helpful when you're moving at the last minute, as it reduces the number of items you need to move, making the process more efficient and organised.
Many removal companies across the UK offer additional services, including furniture storage. Before finalising your moving date, consider moving non-essential items into storage and only taking the most important belongings with you to the new property. This strategy can significantly shorten the moving process. Not only does it lessen the load for the moving team, but it also helps you focus on prioritising and packing your essential items. Some removal companies even offer full moving and storage services, handling everything for you.
By reducing the volume of items that need to be moved, you may also find it easier to compare removal companies. Depending on the size of their team and vehicles, some removal companies may be limited in the scope of moves they can take on. The fewer items you need to move, the more companies will be available to help with your last-minute relocation.
7. Remember Your Utilities
During a last-minute move, it's easy to overlook important essentials like utilities, but it's crucial to make time for them. Setting up electricity, internet, and water services at your new property should be a top priority. These services are vital for daily life, and having them sorted ahead of time can help reduce stress. Every small inconvenience can feel overwhelming when you're rushing, so don’t let issues like cold water or no internet add to the pressure during your move.
8. Don’t Panic
When it comes to last-minute removals, the worst thing you can do is panic. While it may feel chaotic, staying calm is key to managing the situation without feeling overwhelmed. Avoid rushing through tasks—work quickly, but work smart. Plan ahead as much as possible and make lists to stay organised, ticking off each task as you complete it. Although it may seem tedious, the more organised you are, the smoother and more efficient your relocation will be.
Researching what needs to be done, who to turn to, and the removal company you're hiring is crucial. Make sure to give yourself a few minutes to relax, gather information, and take a breather during the process. No matter how tight the deadline, your mental and physical well-being should always come first—so don't push yourself too hard.
