Removal companies do far more than drive a van. From pre-move surveys to full packing, specialist item handling, storage, and unpacking — here's everything a professional removal firm can do for you.
Key Points
A standard removal service includes: loading, transport, and unloading — packing is usually an optional extra
Full-service removals also include professional packing, dismantling, reassembly, and unpacking
Most reputable firms are members of the BAR (British Association of Removers) or RHA
Specialist services include: piano moving, art handling, antiques, and overseas removals
Many firms offer storage — both short-term (around completion day) and long-term
A pre-move survey — in person or virtual — is standard for all but the smallest moves
Core Removal Company Services
📦 Loading & Transport
The core service: removers carry all your items from your home, load them onto the van using furniture blankets and straps, transport them to your new address, and unload them into designated rooms. Included in every standard quote.
📋 Pre-Move Survey
Before quoting, reputable companies send a surveyor (in person or via video call) to assess the volume of goods, access restrictions, and any specialist items. Essential for accurate pricing — be wary of firms that quote without a survey.
🎁 Professional Packing
An optional service where the removal team packs everything in your home using specialist boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper. Typically adds £200–£800 depending on property size. Saves time and reduces breakage risk.
🔧 Dismantling & Reassembly
Larger furniture — beds, wardrobes, flat-pack units — often needs to be dismantled for the move and reassembled at the new property. Many companies include basic dismantling; complex reassembly may be an extra.
📦 Unpacking
A premium add-on: the team unpacks boxes and places items in their new positions. Usually priced separately. Ideal for elderly movers, families with young children, or anyone wanting a fast settle-in.
🏪 Storage
Many removal firms offer container-based or warehouse storage — useful if there's a gap between leaving your old property and getting into the new one. Short-term storage (1–4 weeks) is commonly needed around completion day.
What's Included in a Standard Removal Quote?
Service
Standard Quote
Optional Extra
Loading furniture & boxes
✅ Included
—
Transport to new address
✅ Included
—
Unloading to designated rooms
✅ Included
—
Furniture blankets & strapping
✅ Included
—
Basic dismantling (beds, standard furniture)
⚠️ Often included
Check quote
Professional packing
❌ Not included
✅ Available
Packing materials (boxes, tape, paper)
❌ Not included
✅ Available
Storage
❌ Not included
✅ Available
Unpacking at new property
❌ Not included
✅ Available
Piano / specialist item moving
❌ Not included
✅ Specialist quote
Specialist Services
🎹 Piano & Large Instrument Moving
Requires specialist equipment (piano boards, skates) and experienced crews. Upright pianos typically cost £150–£400 to move; grand pianos £400–£1,000+. Never attempt with a standard removal team.
🖼️ Fine Art & Antiques
High-value artwork and antiques require specialist crating, climate-controlled transport, and enhanced insurance. Look for firms with fine art accreditation.
🌍 Overseas & European Removals
International moves involve customs documentation, container shipping or groupage loads, and compliance with destination country regulations. Specialist firms handle all paperwork.
🏢 Office & Commercial Moves
Moving IT equipment, filing, and commercial furniture — often done overnight or at weekends to minimise business disruption. Requires specialist planning and insurance.
How Removal Companies Calculate Your Quote
Your removal quote is based on several key factors:
Volume of goods — measured in cubic feet or cubic metres during the pre-move survey
Distance — local (under 50 miles), national (50–250 miles), or long-distance (250+ miles)
Access — stairs, narrow access, long carry distances from van to door all add to labour time
Day of the week — Fridays and Mondays cost more; mid-week moves are typically cheaper
Time of year — summer peak (June–August) and school holiday periods command higher prices
Additional services — packing, storage, specialist items, and materials all add to the base price
Insurance level — basic liability is usually included; full value replacement cover is extra
💡 Look for BAR or RHA Membership
The British Association of Removers (BAR) is the UK's leading trade association for removal firms. BAR members must meet strict financial and quality standards, carry adequate insurance, and offer an approved dispute resolution scheme. Check membership at bar.co.uk. The Road Haulage Association (RHA) is another credible accreditation body.
What Removal Companies Don't Do
Plumbing / electrical disconnection — washing machines, dishwashers and gas appliances must be disconnected by a qualified tradesperson before the move
Moving pets or plants — most firms won't transport live animals or plants (especially for long distances)
Hazardous materials — paints, gas canisters, batteries, and flammable liquids cannot be transported in removal vans
Valuables — cash, jewellery, important documents, and prescription medicines should always travel with you personally
Rubbish clearance — unwanted items need to be disposed of separately (house clearance companies do this)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many movers will come to my home?
For a 1–2 bedroom home: typically 2 movers. A 3–4 bedroom home: 3–4 movers. Large houses or moves with lots of heavy items may require 4–5. Confirm this when booking so you can plan access and parking.
Are my belongings insured during the move?
All reputable removal companies carry goods-in-transit insurance — but check the level of cover and whether it's based on weight (standard) or declared value (better). For high-value items, ask about additional all-risk cover or check your home insurance policy.
Can I stay in my home while the removal team works?
Yes — and in fact it's usually helpful to be present to direct the team, indicate fragile items, and confirm which boxes go to which rooms. However, you don't need to help with the physical moving — that's what you're paying for.
What if completion is delayed on moving day?
This is common. Most removal firms build in waiting time and will hold your goods in the van. If the delay is very long, storage may be arranged. Discuss the firm's delay policy before booking and check whether storage is included or charged separately.