10 Common London House Removals Mistakes to Avoid

 Moving house in London can be an exciting new chapter, but it can also be overwhelming. The logistics of the city, traffic, and tight schedules can make the process more stressful than it needs to be. With a wealth of moving companies and services available, it's crucial to avoid certain pitfalls that can turn your relocation into a nightmare.

1. Underestimating the Time Required for the Move

One of the most common mistakes people make during house removals is underestimating how long the process will take. From packing your belongings to navigating the busy streets of London, moving is a time-consuming task.

Solution:

Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to pack, organise, and arrange your move. The average time it takes to pack up a 3-bedroom house in London is around 12-16 hours, depending on how organised you are. It's always best to start early and, if necessary, hire a professional packing service to reduce the time needed.

2. Not Researching Removal Companies Thoroughly

Not all removal companies are created equal. Some may offer competitive prices but deliver subpar services, or worse, could result in damages to your valuable items.

Solution:

Read reviews, ask for referrals, and ensure the removal company is accredited by reputable organisations such as the British Association of Removers (BAR). A reliable home removals company in London will have transparent policies, insurance coverage, and a solid track record. Do some research to find the best fit for your needs.

3. Failing to Create an Inventory List

A common oversight in house removals in London is failing to make an inventory list of all your items. Without a detailed list, it’s easy to misplace things or forget about important belongings during the move.

Solution:

Create a thorough inventory of all your belongings, categorising them by room and ensuring you note any items that need special care, such as fragile or valuable items. This inventory will serve as a checklist when you arrive at your new home, reducing the chances of items going missing or being damaged.

4. Ignoring Parking Permits

London’s busy streets and restricted parking zones can be a headache when it comes to removals. Without securing parking permits for your removal van, you risk delays or fines.

Solution:

Contact your local council in advance to arrange parking permits for the moving day. In some areas, you may need to reserve a parking space for the van, and this can take a couple of weeks to arrange. Don’t wait until the last minute to organise this!

5. Packing Fragile Items Improperly

It’s easy to overlook the need for extra protection when packing fragile items, such as glassware, electronics, and artwork. Improper packing can lead to breakages during the move.

Solution:

Use bubble wrap, foam, or specialised packing materials for fragile items. Invest in high-quality moving boxes, and mark fragile boxes clearly to ensure movers handle them with care. For particularly valuable or delicate items, consider hiring professional packers who can handle them properly.

6. Not Disposing of Unwanted Items Before the Move

Many people wait until the last minute to get rid of old furniture or unwanted items. This can make the moving process unnecessarily complicated, especially when space in the moving van is limited.

Solution:

Declutter your home before the move. Consider donating, recycling, or selling unwanted items. According to a recent study, 30% of people report holding onto items that they never use, which only adds to the stress and cost of the move. Take time to clear out the unnecessary items to make the packing and moving process more efficient.

7. Not Having a Clear Plan for the New Home

Arriving at your new home without a clear plan for where everything should go can lead to confusion and wasted time. This can be particularly problematic in London, where space is often at a premium.

Solution:

Visit your new home ahead of time to map out where each room will go. Create a floor plan and label your boxes accordingly. This will help both you and the removal team understand where each item should be placed, making unpacking a smoother process.

8. Failing to Protect Your Floors and Walls

During the chaos of moving, it’s easy to forget about the potential damage that can occur to the floors and walls in your old and new home.

Solution:

Use protective coverings such as floor runners, corner protectors, and furniture blankets to prevent damage. Many removal companies will offer this as part of their service, but if you’re doing the move yourself, make sure to take precautions.

9. Overloading Boxes

Packing boxes to the brim may seem like an easy solution, but overloading them can lead to injuries or damage. Heavy boxes can also be difficult for movers to carry, leading to unnecessary delays.

Solution:

Be mindful of the weight when packing your boxes. Avoid overloading them, especially with heavy items like books, electronics, or kitchenware. Ideally, boxes should weigh no more than 20kg each. To ensure safety, spread the weight evenly across boxes.

10. Not Preparing for the Final Stages of the Move

The final stages of moving, such as cleaning your old home, setting up utilities, and ensuring everything is properly transferred, can be easily overlooked.

Solution:

Take the time to complete these tasks well in advance. Schedule utility transfers (gas, water, electricity, internet), clean your old property, and double-check that you haven’t left anything behind. This will allow for a smooth transition to your new home without any lingering stress.

House removals in London can be a daunting process, but with careful planning and preparation, you can avoid the common mistakes that often lead to delays, damages, and added stress. By following the tips outlined in this blog, you’ll ensure that your move goes smoothly, saving both time and money.

Remember to start early, research removalist companies in London, declutter before the move, and plan ahead for parking, permits, and the logistics of moving fragile items. With these considerations in mind, you'll be well on your way to a successful and stress-free move in one of the busiest cities in the world.