What is the best day of the week to move?

The Best Day of the Week to Move: A Practical Guide

Determining the 'best' day to move involves balancing cost, availability, convenience, and personal circumstances. While there is no single answer for everyone, certain days of the week and times of the month typically offer more advantages than others in the UK.

Mid-Week: Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday

For most residential moves, particularly those handled by professional removals firms or man and van services, a mid-week day (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday) often presents the most advantageous window. These days are generally:

• Less Expensive: Demand for removal services is lower during the week, leading to more competitive pricing. Firms are keen to fill their schedules, meaning better rates can often be secured.
• Greater Availability: It is typically easier to book a preferred slot with a reputable removal company. This is especially true if planning is done well in advance, giving access to a wider choice of trusted providers.
• Less Traffic: Roads, especially in city centres, can be less congested outside of peak commute times on these days, potentially leading to a smoother journey for the removals lorry.
• Reduced Stress: A mid-week move allows for the weekend before to be dedicated to final packing and preparation, and the weekend after for settling in and unpacking. For a comprehensive list of tasks, consult the URemovals Moving Checklist.

End of the Month or End of the Week: Fridays and Weekends

Fridays and weekends, particularly the last weekend of the month, are significantly more popular for moving for several reasons:

• Convenience: Many people prefer to move on a Friday to have the entire weekend to unpack and settle into their new home without needing to take additional time off work.
• Conveyancing Completions: In property sales, completions frequently occur on a Friday. This can create a significant surge in demand for removal services nationwide.

However, this popularity comes with notable drawbacks:

• Higher Costs: Due to increased demand, prices for removal services on Fridays and weekends are typically higher.
• Limited Availability: Securing a reputable firm can be challenging, particularly if booking at short notice. Services book up quickly.
• Increased Traffic: Roads can be busier, leading to potential delays and longer journey times.
• Logistical Challenges: Banks, solicitors, and utility providers often operate with reduced hours over weekends, which can complicate any last-minute administrative tasks, such as confirming funds for property completion or contacting providers for issues like disconnecting utilities.

Consider the Time of Month and Year

• Mid-Month: Similar to mid-week, moving mid-month (away from the first and last weeks) can offer better rates and availability. This is because many tenancy agreements end at month-end.
• Off-Peak Seasons: Winter (excluding the Christmas period) generally sees lower demand for removals compared to the busy summer months. This can translate to more favourable pricing and easier scheduling.
• School Holidays: Family moves often coincide with school holidays to minimise disruption for children. This makes periods like the summer break, Easter, and half-terms particularly busy and therefore more expensive.
• Bank Holidays: Avoid moving on Bank Holidays at all costs. Removal companies are often closed or charge premium rates, and traffic can be exceptionally heavy.

Practical Considerations Beyond the Day Itself

• Parking and Access: Consider parking restrictions at both properties. Mid-week moves might face fewer parking challenges in busy residential areas or city centres.
• Neighbours: Moving during quieter periods can minimise disruption to new and old neighbours, making for a smoother introduction.
• Booking in Advance: Regardless of the chosen day, booking your removal service well in advance is always recommended. This secures your preferred date and allows adequate time for planning and preparation.
• Utilities and Services: Ensure that all services, from broadband to council tax, are scheduled to be connected or disconnected on the appropriate day.

Ultimately, while mid-week offers a compelling case for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, the "best" day to move is the one that aligns most seamlessly with an individual's financial constraints, work schedule, and personal preferences, ideally with ample forward planning.