The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Day of the Week to Move House in London

Moving house in London can feel overwhelming. Between finding reliable movers, packing up your belongings, and navigating the city’s busy streets, the day you choose to move can make a big difference. Picking the best day to move London means saving money, avoiding stress, and making your move as smooth as possible. I’ve learned from experience and research that timing your move carefully can help you avoid common pitfalls like high costs and traffic jams.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about weekday moves London, weekend moving costs, and how to avoid peak moving days. Whether you’re moving to a flat in Camden or a house in Richmond, this post will help you pick the right day to move.

A moving van parked on a quiet London street in London

Why Choosing the Right Day Matters

Moving is expensive and stressful. The day you pick can affect:

• Cost: Moving companies charge different rates depending on demand.

• Traffic and parking: London’s roads can be a nightmare during rush hours or busy weekends.

• Availability: Movers and rental vans are harder to book on popular days.

• Your energy and time: Moving on a hectic day can drain you faster.

  
  

Understanding these factors helps you find cheap moving days and avoid unnecessary hassle.

Weekday Moves London: Why They Often Work Best

Many people assume weekends are best for moving because they don’t have work. But in London, weekday moves London often offer better deals and less congestion.

Benefits of Moving on a Weekday

• Lower costs: Moving companies usually charge less on weekdays. Demand drops after Monday morning, so Tuesday to Thursday can be the cheapest.

• Easier parking: Residential areas are less crowded during the day on weekdays, making it easier to park a moving van.

• Faster service: Movers can complete jobs quicker without weekend backlogs.

• More availability: You’ll find more options for booking vans and helpers.

  
  

Best Weekdays to Move

• Tuesday to Thursday are the sweet spot. Mondays can be busy with people starting their week, and Fridays start to get booked up for weekend moves.

• Avoid Fridays if you want to save money and avoid weekend surcharges.

  
  
  
  

Weekend Moving Costs: What to Expect

Weekends are popular for moving because many people have time off work. But this convenience comes with a price.

Why Weekend Moves Cost More

• Higher demand: Moving companies raise prices because many people want weekend slots.

• Limited availability: Vans and movers get booked early, leaving fewer options.

• Traffic congestion: Weekend events and shoppers increase traffic, especially in central London.

• Parking restrictions: Some areas have stricter parking rules on weekends.

  
  

When Weekend Moves Make Sense

• If you can’t take time off work, weekends might be your only option.

• For short moves within the same borough, weekend traffic might be manageable.

• Booking well in advance can help reduce costs.

  
  

Busy London street with moving vans and heavy traffic during the weekend

How to Avoid Peak Moving Days in London

Certain days and times see a spike in moving activity. Avoiding these can save you money and stress.

Peak Moving Days to Avoid

• End of the month: Many leases end on the last day of the month, causing a surge in moves.

• Weekends: Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest.

• Bank holidays: Moving companies often charge extra or have limited availability.

• School holidays: Families tend to move during school breaks, increasing demand.

  
  

Tips to Avoid Peak Days

• Schedule your move mid-month if possible.

• Choose a weekday in the middle of the week.

• Book your movers early to lock in better rates.

• Consider moving early in the morning to beat traffic.

  
  
  
  

How to Find Cheap Moving Days in London

Finding cheap moving days requires planning and flexibility. Here are some practical tips:

• Be flexible with your date: If you can move on a Tuesday or Wednesday, you’ll likely pay less.

• Book early: Movers often offer discounts for early bookings.

• Avoid summer months: June to August is peak moving season in London.

• Compare quotes: Get multiple quotes and ask about weekday discounts.

• Use local movers: Smaller companies may offer better rates for short moves.

  
  
  
  

Real-Life Example: Saving Money by Moving on a Tuesday

A friend of mine recently moved from Hackney to Islington. She initially planned a Saturday move but found weekend moving costs were 30% higher. By shifting her move to a Tuesday, she saved nearly £150 on the moving company and avoided the weekend traffic jams. The move took less time, and parking was easier to find near both properties.

Packed moving boxes stacked neatly in a London flat ready for moving day

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Day to Move in London

Choosing the best day to move London means balancing cost, convenience, and availability. Weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday, often offer the best value and less stress. Avoiding weekends, end-of-month dates, and bank holidays can help you find cheap moving days and avoid peak moving days.

Plan ahead, book early, and stay flexible with your dates. This approach will make your London move smoother and more affordable. If you’re ready to start planning, check local moving companies for weekday specials and lock in your date soon.