Best day to move house
in BLOGWhat Is the Best Day to Move House in the UK?
The day you choose to move house can affect everything from moving costs and traffic delays to van availability and stress levels. Here’s how to choose the best moving day and avoid the busiest periods in the UK removals industry.
Most people focus on boxes, packing tape and paperwork — but very few actually think about whether they’re moving on the right day.
The truth is that your moving date can have a huge impact on the entire experience. Choosing the wrong day can mean heavier traffic, higher moving costs, parking problems and delays with keys or property completions.
This is especially true in London, where congestion, parking restrictions and Friday completion chains can quickly turn a simple move into a stressful day.
Quick Answer
The best days to move house in the UK are usually Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday because roads are quieter, moving companies are less busy and prices are often lower compared to Fridays and weekends.
If you are planning a house move, flat move or office relocation, this guide explains the best days, cheapest periods and common mistakes to avoid when booking your move.
Why Does the Moving Day Matter So Much?
Most people assume moving house is simply about hiring a van and transporting boxes from one property to another.
In reality, the day you move can affect almost every part of the process:
Higher Costs
Peak moving days usually come with higher hourly rates and reduced availability.
Traffic Delays
Friday congestion and weekend traffic can significantly increase moving time.
Completion Delays
Property chains and late key releases are more common on busy Fridays.
Many estate agents and solicitors close around 5pm on Fridays. If your property completion gets delayed late in the day, resolving issues before the weekend can become extremely stressful.
For hourly charged man and van services, even small delays can noticeably increase the total moving cost.
What Is the Best Day to Move House?
For most people, the best days to move are:
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
Midweek moving days are usually quieter, cheaper and much easier to organise compared to Fridays and weekends.
Professional movers often prefer midweek bookings because roads are less congested and parking is easier to arrange.
This is particularly important in London boroughs where parking suspensions and loading bays may need to be arranged in advance.
Midweek moves usually provide:
- Lower moving costs
- Better van availability
- Less traffic congestion
- Reduced stress levels
- More flexible booking times
- Lower risk of delays
If you are booking a man and van service in London, choosing a quieter weekday can make a significant difference to the overall experience.
Why Are Fridays the Most Popular Moving Day?
Friday is traditionally the busiest moving day in the UK.
Most people choose Friday because it allows them to unpack over the weekend without taking extra time off work.
Weekend Unpacking
Families often prefer using the weekend to settle into the new property.
Property Completions
Most property chains and tenancy agreements complete on Fridays.
Work Schedules
Many people only need one day off work before the weekend begins.
However, Friday moves also come with disadvantages.
Because demand is so high, Friday bookings are usually:
- More expensive
- Harder to secure
- Affected by heavier traffic
- More stressful overall
- More likely to experience completion delays
In London, Friday traffic combined with congestion charge hours and busy borough parking restrictions can easily add additional time to the move.
What Is the Cheapest Time of the Month to Move?
The busiest period for removals companies is usually the end of the month.
Avoid End-of-Month Moves If Possible
Many tenancy agreements begin and end at the same time, which creates extremely high demand for movers, vans and storage facilities.
If possible, avoid:
- The final week of the month
- Bank holiday weekends
- School holidays
- Peak summer weekends
Mid-month moves are often easier to arrange and can sometimes reduce the total moving cost.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Move?
Summer is traditionally the busiest moving season in the UK because families often prefer relocating during school holidays.
However, increased demand during summer can also make removals more expensive.
Spring and autumn are often considered ideal periods for moving because:
- Demand is lower than summer
- Weather conditions are usually manageable
- Moving companies may have better availability
- Traffic conditions are often easier
Winter moves can sometimes be cheaper, although shorter daylight hours and poor weather conditions may create additional challenges.
Professional Tips for a Smoother Moving Day
Book Early
The best moving dates get booked very quickly, especially Fridays and end-of-month slots.
Reserve Parking
Parking close to the property can save a huge amount of loading and unloading time.
Pack in Advance
Having everything packed before the movers arrive makes the process faster and less stressful.
Final Thoughts
Although Fridays remain the most popular moving day in the UK, they are not always the best option.
If your schedule allows flexibility, moving during the middle of the week can often reduce stress, improve availability and lower your overall moving costs.
Choosing the right moving date may seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference to the entire moving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest day to move house?
Tuesday and Wednesday are usually the cheapest moving days because demand is lower compared to Fridays and weekends.
Why are Friday moves more expensive?
Friday is the busiest moving day in the UK, which increases demand for removal companies and available vans.
Should I avoid moving at the end of the month?
Yes, if possible. End-of-month periods are usually much busier because many tenancy agreements finish simultaneously.
Is it cheaper to move house in winter?
Winter moves can sometimes be cheaper because demand is lower, although weather conditions may create additional challenges.
Why do house completions usually happen on Fridays?
Many buyers and sellers prefer completing on Fridays so they can use the weekend to unpack and settle in.
Should I move in the morning or afternoon?
Morning moves are usually best because they provide more flexibility and reduce the risk of delays later in the day.
