Getting Removal Quotes: The Smart Way
Getting removal quotes is one of the most important steps in planning your move. The difference between the cheapest and most expensive quote for the same move can be £300–£800 or more — so it pays to do this properly.
How Many Quotes Should You Get?
Aim for at least 3 quotes, ideally 5. This gives you enough data to spot outliers (suspiciously cheap or expensive) and settle on a fair price.
Types of Removal Quotes
1. Online / Phone Estimate
A quick estimate based on property size and postcode. Good as a starting point but not binding. Accuracy: 70-80%.
2. Video Survey
The company views your belongings via video call. More accurate than phone estimates and increasingly common post-2020. Accuracy: 85-90%.
3. In-Home Survey
A surveyor visits your property to assess volume, access, and any tricky items. This produces the most accurate and binding quote. Accuracy: 95%+.
For moves worth over £1,000, always try to get at least one in-home survey quote.
What to Include When Requesting Quotes
Be specific. The more detail you provide, the more accurate (and comparable) your quotes will be:
- From and to postcodes (including floor level and lift access)
- Property sizes (number of bedrooms, garage, loft, shed)
- Special items — piano, hot tub, gym equipment, antiques
- Packing requirements — full service, part packing, or DIY
- Dates — your preferred moving date plus flexibility
- Parking and access — any restrictions at either end
- Storage needs — temporary or long-term
How to Compare Quotes Fairly
Don't just compare the headline price. Check what's included:
| Item | Ask About |
|---|---|
| Insurance | What cover level? Excess amount? |
| Packing | Included or extra? Materials charged separately? |
| Dismantling/reassembly | Beds, wardrobes — included? |
| Parking permits | Who arranges and pays? |
| Waiting time | What if the keys are delayed? |
| Storage | Day rate if you need temporary storage? |
Can You Negotiate?
Yes. Removal companies expect it, especially when you have competing quotes. Tactics that work:
- Show them a lower quote from a competitor
- Be flexible on dates — offer a mid-week slot for a discount
- Bundle services (packing + moving) for a package deal
- Ask about a price match policy
- Book early — some companies offer early-bird discounts
Where to Get Quotes
- Comparison sites like Getamover or AnyVan let you submit one form and get multiple quotes
- Google your city + "removal company" for local operators
- Recommendations from friends, family, or local community groups
- Trade associations like BAR (British Association of Removers) have member directories
- Our calculator at MovingCost.co.uk gives you a free benchmark estimate instantly
Red Flags in a Removal Quote
Watch out for:
- No written quote — everything should be in writing
- Unusually low price — often means hidden extras on the day
- Vague wording — "approximately" or "from" pricing with no cap
- Large deposit required — reputable companies take 10-20% deposit, not 50%+
- No cancellation terms — you should know the policy upfront
- No insurance details — they should proactively tell you what's covered
Getting an Online Quote in 60 Seconds
If you want a quick benchmark before contacting removal companies, use our free calculator. It estimates your moving cost based on property size, distance, and services — no signup, no phone calls, no spam.