Making your move

Some people move all their belongings themselves. This can be hard work and may mean hiring a van for larger items, but it helps cut the cost of moving. Other people prefer to hire a removal company.

Whatever you decide, we have some top tips for a move without a hitch.

DIY removals

If you're moving yourself, make sure you:

• Get the right size van
• Try to order it as soon as you know you will be moving. We only give you a few days' notice so ring round immediately you know you have an offer
• If you can afford it, get a van with a tail lift. They cost a bit more but make loading big items much easier
• Try moving on a weekday - you might get a better deal
• Make sure you know when the van can be collected and when it needs to be back to avoid any extra charges
• Make sure you pack your belongings properly so they don't move around too much - take a look at our tips on packing.

The professionals

Using a professional removal company can take a lot of the stress out of moving. Some companies do all the packing and some just transport what you've packed.

Make sure when booking a professional you:

• Hire them as soon asyou've been offered a new property. We only give you a few days' notice so you will have to work quickly
• Make sure they are a British Association of Removers member
• Get at lease three quotes before you decide who to use
• See if it is cheaper on a week day
• Make a list of everything going into the van to make sure they know how many boxes to expect and that it is all picked up
• Tell the company how much you have so they know what size van to use
• Label your boxes and furniture to tell the removers which items need to go where in the new house
• Try to organise a parking space for the van.