Top 10 Common Man And Van Mistakes to Avoid When Moving in London
- The London Man And Van
- Dec 27, 2025
- 3 min read
Moving in London can be a stressful experience, especially when using a man and van service. Many people face unexpected challenges that could have been avoided with better planning and awareness. This post highlights the top 10 common man and van mistakes to avoid when moving in London, helping you save time, money, and frustration. Follow this smooth moving guide to ensure your move goes as planned.
1. Not Booking Early Enough
One of the biggest moving errors London residents make is waiting too long to book their man and van service. London’s demand for moving services is high, especially on weekends and at the end of the month. Waiting until the last minute can lead to limited availability and higher prices.
Tip: Book your man and van at least two to three weeks in advance. This gives you more options and better rates.
2. Underestimating the Volume of Items
Many people misjudge how much stuff they have to move. This leads to booking a van that is too small or needing multiple trips, which increases costs and time.
Tip: Take time to measure or estimate the volume of your belongings. Use online calculators or ask the man and van company for advice on the right van size.
3. Ignoring Parking Restrictions
London has strict parking rules, especially in busy areas. Failing to check parking restrictions near your old or new home can cause delays or fines.
Tip: Research parking rules in advance. Apply for a temporary parking permit if needed or arrange for a loading bay.
4. Not Packing Properly
Poor packing is a common cause of damage and delays. Overfilled boxes, unlabelled containers, and fragile items not wrapped carefully can create problems during loading and unloading.
Tip: Use sturdy boxes, label everything clearly, and wrap fragile items with bubble wrap or blankets. Pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
5. Overloading the Van
Trying to fit too many items into one trip can lead to overloading the van, which is unsafe and illegal. It also increases the risk of damage to your belongings.
Tip: Stick to the van’s weight limit and space capacity. If you have a lot to move, consider booking extra trips or a larger vehicle.
6. Not Communicating Clearly with the Driver
Miscommunication with the man and van driver can cause confusion about timing, routes, or special requirements. This can lead to delays or missed appointments.
Tip: Provide clear instructions about addresses, access points, and any special items. Confirm the booking details and contact information before moving day.
7. Forgetting to Check Insurance Coverage
Some man and van services do not include insurance or offer limited coverage. If your items get damaged or lost, you could face significant costs.
Tip: Ask about insurance options and read the terms carefully. Consider buying additional insurance if needed for valuable items.
8. Not Preparing the New Property
Arriving at your new home only to find it cluttered, locked, or unready can waste time and cause stress.
Tip: Ensure your new property is clean, accessible, and ready for moving day. Arrange for keys in advance and clear any obstacles.
9. Overlooking the Importance of Timing
Traffic in London can be unpredictable. Moving during peak hours or bad weather can cause delays and increase costs.
Tip: Plan your move for off-peak times, such as mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays. Check the weather forecast and allow extra time for unexpected delays.
10. Not Asking for Recommendations or Reviews
Choosing a man and van service without checking reviews or getting recommendations can lead to poor service or scams.
Tip: Research companies online, read customer reviews, and ask friends or family for trusted recommendations. A reliable service will save you from many moving problems.
