What a 3-Bed Move Actually Looks Like
A 3-bed move is the most common job UK removals companies do, and most of it runs to a fairly predictable rhythm. Here is what an average day looks like — from the crew turning up to the kettle going on at the new place.
Crew Size and Vehicle
A typical 3-bed move uses:
- 2 to 4 movers depending on packing, stairs and access
- One 7.5-tonne lorry, or a Luton van plus small lorry for awkward access
- 6 to 10 hours door to door for a local move
If you have lots of large furniture, a loft full of boxes, or you are moving more than 50 miles, expect the upper end of those numbers.
What Time Will They Arrive?
Most crews start between 7:30 and 9:00 am. Earlier starts help when you have a strict completion window — most contracts require keys handed over by 1:00 or 2:00 pm.
You will get a confirmed arrival window the day before. If you are in a chain, talk to your mover early about contingency for delays — see our guide on what to do if completion day slips.
Hour by Hour
7:30 to 8:00 am — Arrival and walkthrough
The crew leader does a quick walk through the house with you. You will point out anything fragile, anything not going (the fridge that stays for the buyer, items going to the tip) and any priority items.
8:00 am to 12:00 pm — Loading
The team works systematically — big furniture first, then boxes. Beds and wardrobes get dismantled, mattresses bagged, sofas wrapped. You do not need to hover, but be reachable for questions.
12:00 to 1:00 pm — Final sweep and keys
Last-minute items, loft check, garden shed, garage. Take final meter readings, hand keys to your agent. This is also when you should do your own walkthrough — every cupboard, every drawer.
1:00 to 2:30 pm — Transit
A local move under 20 miles is usually a single trip. The crew may stop briefly for lunch — most bring their own.
2:30 to 6:00 pm — Unloading
At the new place, the crew leader will ask where each room is. Have a quick plan ready, or stick paper signs on each door. Furniture goes in first, then boxes by room label.
6:00 pm onwards — You take over
The crew will reassemble beds and main furniture before they leave. Anything fiddly (wardrobes with mirrored doors, complex storage) takes longer — flag the priority items early.
What You Should Be Doing
Your job on the day is not to lift boxes. It is to:
- Make decisions when the crew asks (where does this go?)
- Keep the kettle going — drinks make a real difference
- Handle paperwork — keys, agent calls, meter readings
- Look after children and pets away from the action if possible
- Carry the first-night box and valuables yourself
Things That Slow a Move Down
- Parking issues at either end — sort permits or cones in advance
- Stairs without lifts in flats (charged on some quotes, ask upfront)
- Last-minute packing — pay for a pack service if you are short on time
- No labelling — crews cannot unload to rooms if boxes are not marked. See our box labelling guide.
- Indecision about what stays and what goes
What the Cost Typically Covers
A standard 3-bed quote usually includes:
- Crew labour for the day
- Vehicle and fuel
- Standard wrapping and blankets
- Basic dismantling and reassembly of beds and dining tables
- Goods-in-transit insurance up to a stated value
It often does not include:
- Packing your boxes (separate service)
- Specialist items (pianos, safes, hot tubs)
- Long carries from van to door (if parking is far)
- Storage if completion slips
Always check your quote line by line — see how removal companies calculate cost for the full breakdown.
Quick Checklist for the Day
- First-night box packed and in your car, not the van
- Important documents, passports and valuables with you
- Phones and chargers
- Cash for tips (£10 to £20 per crew member is standard if you are happy)
- Meter readings taken and photographed
- All keys, fobs and alarm codes ready to hand over
- A list of which boxes are priority at the new house
Get a Realistic Quote
Use our free calculator to benchmark what a fair 3-bed move should cost in your area, then compare quotes from local removal companies against that figure.