UK Removals FAQs
Moving home can be stressful, but careful planning and the right removal company can make the process much easier. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions about moving house in the UK, including getting a quote, preparing for moving day, packing, access, specialist items, storage and protecting your belongings.
Planning your UK move
Is the removal survey free?
Yes. Doree Bonner offers a free, no-obligation removal survey.
The survey can be carried out either virtually or in person and is an opportunity to discuss your moving requirements, ask questions and develop a personalised moving plan.
How far in advance should I book a removal company?
We recommend contacting removal companies as soon as you know you’re going to move.
You don’t necessarily need to have a confirmed completion date before getting a quotation. Starting early gives you more time to compare options, plan your packing and secure your preferred moving date.
Can I book a removal before I have a completion date?
Yes. It is worth getting your removal arrangements started even if your completion date has not yet been confirmed.
Once you have a likely moving date, speak to your Move Coordinator so that your arrangements can be updated and confirmed.
Can you accommodate a last-minute move?
We will always do our best to accommodate a move at short notice, subject to availability.
Last-minute moves can be more difficult to organise, particularly during busy periods, so contacting us as early as possible gives you the best chance of securing the date and services you need.
Can I change my moving date after booking?
If your moving date changes, contact your Move Coordinator as soon as possible.
They will discuss the new date with you and check availability for the removal team, vehicles and any other services that have been arranged.
What is included in my removal quotation?
Your written quotation will set out the services included in your individual move.
Depending on your requirements, this can include removal, packing, unpacking, storage and other services. Any additional or optional services should be discussed with your Surveyor and included in your quotation where applicable.
Are there any additional charges I should be aware of?
Your quotation will explain what is included and identify any services or circumstances that may incur additional charges.
For example, specialist services, unusual access requirements, disposal of unwanted items or certain electrical work may require an additional charge.
If you’re unsure whether something is included, ask your Surveyor or Move Coordinator before moving day.
How much does a house removal cost?
The cost of a house removal depends on a number of factors, including the volume of belongings you’re moving, the distance between your properties, access at both addresses, packing requirements and any additional services you need.
The best way to get an accurate price is to arrange a removal survey. Doree Bonner can carry out a free, no-obligation survey either virtually or in person, allowing the team to assess your belongings and discuss your individual requirements before providing a written quotation.
How do you calculate the cost of my removal?
Your quotation is based on the volume of goods being moved and the specific requirements of your move.
During your survey, the Removal Surveyor will assess your belongings, consider access at your current and new property, and discuss services such as packing, dismantling, storage and specialist requirements.
This allows Doree Bonner to provide a more accurate quotation rather than trying to estimate the cost of a full house move over the phone.
How do I get a removal quote?
You can request a free UK moving quote online or arrange a virtual consultation or home visit with a member of the Doree Bonner team.
For a full house move, we recommend having your belongings assessed by a qualified Removal Surveyor so that the quotation reflects the actual requirements of your move.
Preparing for your move
Do you provide packing materials?
Yes. A range of packing materials is available, including cartons and other purpose-made materials.
If your quotation includes professional packing, the required materials will be incorporated into the service. If you’re packing yourself, materials can be supplied separately.
What should I pack myself?
If you’re packing yourself, you may wish to keep personal documents, valuables, jewellery, medication and other important items with you rather than placing them on the removal vehicle.
Your Move Coordinator can also advise you about items that should not be transported by the removal team.
Do I need to empty my wardrobes?
No. Doree Bonner can provide hanging garment boxes that allow clothes to be transferred from your wardrobes on moving day.
If a wardrobe needs to be dismantled in advance, garment boxes can be supplied beforehand, although an additional charge may apply.
Do I need to empty my drawers?
Not normally. Drawers can generally remain packed with non-fragile items unless your Removal Surveyor advises otherwise.
Fragile, heavy or unsuitable contents should be removed before the move.
Do I need to empty my loft or attic?
Lofts and attics should normally be sorted and packed before removal day.
Doree Bonner can empty a loft or attic where access is safe—for example, where it is boarded, well lit and has a safe point of entry. Your Surveyor can advise whether the space can be accessed as part of your removal.
Do you empty garages and garden sheds?
Yes. Doree Bonner can empty garages and garden sheds, although their contents should be sorted and packed before removal day.
Tools should be bundled together where possible to make them safer to handle.
Can you dispose of furniture and items I don’t want?
Yes. Doree Bonner holds a waste and disposal licence and can arrange disposal of unwanted furniture and other items.
This service is subject to an additional charge.
Can you collect my empty packing cartons?
Where possible, Doree Bonner aims to collect used cartons as part of its recycling policy.
Cartons should be flattened and ready for collection. Collection will normally take place when a Doree Bonner vehicle is next in your area, so arrangements should be discussed with your Move Coordinator.
Do I need to pack everything myself?
No. You can choose to pack your belongings yourself or use Doree Bonner’s professional packing service.
You can also choose a combination of the two—for example, packing personal items yourself while having the removal team professionally pack more fragile or difficult items.
Do you offer a professional packing service?
Yes. Doree Bonner offers a range of packing options, from packing selected rooms or items through to packing your entire home.
The professional packing team can supply the appropriate materials and carefully prepare your belongings for transportation. Unpacking services can also be arranged at your new home.
Can I pack some belongings myself and have you pack the rest?
Yes. Your packing service can be tailored to your requirements.
If you choose to pack some items yourself, Doree Bonner can supply purpose-made packing materials for you to purchase.
What can you move?
Can you move a piano?
Pianos and other large or specialist items can require additional equipment, manpower or specialist handling.
Tell us about the item when arranging your quotation so that the appropriate arrangements can be assessed and included in your moving plan.
Can you move large or unusual items?
Yes, subject to suitability and access.
Examples can include large furniture, specialist equipment, artwork and other unusually shaped or heavy possessions.
It’s important to mention these items during your survey so that the team can assess access, handling requirements and any specialist equipment that may be needed.
Can you dismantle and reassemble furniture?
Furniture dismantling and reassembly can be arranged where required.
Discuss this with your Surveyor before the move so that the work can be included in your moving plan and quotation where applicable.
Can you disconnect appliances?
Electrical appliances such as cookers, washing machines and fridges should normally be disconnected before the removal team arrives.
Washing machines should be drained and freezers defrosted before the move.
Can you disconnect electrical appliances or light fittings?
Yes, this can be arranged in advance.
Doree Bonner can arrange for a qualified electrician to attend your property before the removal day. This is a separately chargeable service and must be booked ahead of time.
Can you remove doors or windows to get furniture out?
Yes, where necessary, Doree Bonner can arrange for a professional joiner or glazier to remove doors or windows.
This should be discussed at the quotation stage so that the appropriate professional can be arranged for moving day.
What items can’t you move?
There are certain items that cannot be transported for health and safety reasons.
These can include flammable substances, batteries and pressurised containers. If you’re unsure whether an item can be moved, tell your Surveyor before the move so that the appropriate arrangements can be made.
Can you move plants?
Yes, Doree Bonner can arrange to move plants within the UK.
Please mention them when you request your quotation. Plants can require additional space because they cannot generally be stacked, so your Surveyor needs to take them into account when planning your move.
Can you move fragile or valuable items?
Yes. Your Surveyor should be told about valuable, fragile or unusual belongings before your move.
Doree Bonner can discuss appropriate packing and protection options, including specialist packing where required.
Moving day
Do I need to be present during the removal?
We recommend that you or an authorised representative is available to liaise with the removal team.
You’ll need to make sure the team can access the property and that they know about any items or instructions that are important to the move.
What happens if my house completion is delayed?
If your completion or key collection is delayed, contact your Move Coordinator as soon as possible.
They will discuss the situation with you and advise what options are available based on the circumstances and the availability of the removal team and vehicle.
What happens if I can’t get the keys to my new home?
Contact your Move Coordinator immediately.
If the removal team cannot access your new property, alternative arrangements may need to be considered, including temporary storage. Any additional services or costs will depend on the circumstances.
What happens if my new home isn’t ready?
If your new property isn’t ready to receive your belongings, storage may be an option.
Doree Bonner offers storage facilities that can be used during the moving process, so speak to your Move Coordinator as early as possible if you think there could be a gap between leaving your old property and moving into your new one.
Do I need to arrange parking for the removal vehicle?
You are responsible for making sure the removal vehicle can safely access and park at the property.
If parking restrictions, permits, suspended bays or restricted roads could affect access, tell your Surveyor or Move Coordinator before moving day so that the appropriate arrangements can be considered.
What happens if the removal vehicle can’t access my property?
Tell us about restricted access during your survey.
Narrow roads, pedestrian areas, height restrictions, difficult driveways, stairs and other access issues can affect how the move is carried out. Your Surveyor can assess these requirements and discuss suitable arrangements.
Can you move items up or down stairs?
Yes. Normal stair access can be accommodated as part of a house removal.
If there are particularly difficult stairs, narrow staircases or unusual access arrangements, tell your Surveyor so that the requirements can be assessed before moving day.
Can you use lifts during a removal?
Where a lift is available and suitable for moving goods, it may be used subject to the building’s rules and the size and weight of the items.
If your property has lift access, tell your Surveyor during the quotation process.
Can my belongings stay on the removal vehicle overnight?
If circumstances mean that your belongings cannot be delivered immediately, speak to your Move Coordinator.
They can explain the available options and any security or additional costs that may apply.
What happens on moving day?
Your removal team will arrive at the agreed time and begin loading your belongings according to the moving plan.
Depending on the service you’ve selected, the team may pack remaining items, dismantle agreed furniture, load your belongings, transport them to your new property and unload them.
Your Move Coordinator will be available to help manage the move and answer questions throughout the process.
What time will the removal team arrive?
Your Move Coordinator will confirm the arrangements for your move, including the expected arrival time.
Arrival times can be affected by traffic, the team’s previous commitments and other circumstances, so it’s important to remain available and keep in contact with your Move Coordinator on moving day.
How long will my house removal take?
Every move is different.
The time required depends on the volume of belongings, the distance between properties, access, stairs, lifts, packing requirements, dismantling and reassembly, and other services included in your move.
Your Surveyor will discuss the expected schedule with you when planning your move.
Protection and insurance
What happens if something is damaged during my move?
If you discover damage, notify Doree Bonner as soon as possible and follow the claims process associated with your chosen protection.
It’s helpful to keep photographs, your inventory and other relevant documentation. Your Move Coordinator can explain what information is required.
What happens if something is missing?
Contact Doree Bonner as soon as you notice that an item is missing.
The team can investigate the issue and advise you about the appropriate claims process if necessary.
Are my belongings insured during my move?
Doree Bonner offers a range of insurance cover options for domestic moves.
The available options are shown on your quotation, allowing you to choose appropriate protection for your circumstances.
What does removal insurance cover?
The exact protection available depends on the cover you select.
Your quotation and policy documentation will explain what is covered, any exclusions and any applicable excess. We recommend reading these details carefully before your move.
Do I have to take out insurance?
You should consider the level of protection you want for your belongings during the move.
Doree Bonner can provide insurance options with your quotation, including additional cover such as cancellation and extreme weather protection.
Payment and booking
- What is included in the quotation?
- What isn’t included?
- What protection or insurance is available?
- Is there an excess?
- How will the move be carried out?
- What time will the team arrive?
- How many days will the move take?
- What happens if my completion date changes?
- Is storage available if I need it?
- What happens if my belongings need to remain on the vehicle overnight?
- Is the company a member of the British Association of Removers (BAR)?
- How long has the company been operating?
What should I ask a removal company before booking?
Before choosing a removal company, consider asking:
Choosing a reputable removal company and understanding exactly what is included before booking can help avoid unexpected problems later.
When do I pay for my UK removal?
Unless otherwise agreed in writing, Doree Bonner’s current FAQ states that payment is required in full by cleared funds at the time of booking the removal or storage period.
Your quotation and booking documentation will confirm the payment arrangements applicable to your move.
How can I pay for my removal?
Invoices can be paid online by debit or credit card, and bank transfer is also available.
Speak to your Move Coordinator if you need assistance with payment.
Can I change or cancel my removal?
If your circumstances change, contact your Move Coordinator as soon as possible.
Cancellation and changes are subject to the terms and conditions applying to your booking, so check your quotation and booking documentation for the relevant details.
Storage during a UK move
How quickly can I arrange storage?
Doree Bonner’s current FAQ states that secure storage can be arranged with 24 hours’ notice.
Availability can depend on your requirements, so contact the team as soon as you know you’ll need storage.
Are my belongings safe in storage?
Doree Bonner’s storage facilities are protected by CCTV security systems and monitored 24 hours a day. Access is restricted to authorised representatives.
Are my belongings insured while in storage?
Doree Bonner offers a range of insurance cover options for belongings in storage.
Speak to your Move Coordinator about the available protection and the cover appropriate for your circumstances.
Can I access my belongings while they’re in storage?
Access arrangements depend on the type of storage you’ve selected.
If you think you’ll need regular access to individual items, discuss this before booking so that the most appropriate storage solution can be arranged.
How do I get my belongings out of storage?
Your Move Coordinator can arrange for your belongings to be delivered from storage when you’re ready to receive them.
Storage can therefore be used as part of a wider moving plan rather than as a completely separate service.
Can you store my belongings if I can’t move straight into my new home?
Yes. Storage can be arranged as part of your moving process.
This can be particularly useful if you need to leave your current property before your new home is ready, or if your completion dates don’t line up.
Can I put some of my belongings into storage and move the rest?
Yes. Storage can be used alongside a removal, allowing you to store selected belongings while taking the remainder directly to your new home.
Discuss your requirements with your Surveyor or Move Coordinator so the appropriate arrangements can be included in your moving plan.
Can you collect my belongings and put them into storage?
Yes. Doree Bonner can arrange collection and transportation of your belongings to its storage facilities.
The company also offers different ways of getting goods into storage, depending on your requirements.
After your move
Do you offer unpacking?
Yes. Doree Bonner’s professional packing service can include unpacking at your new home.
Discuss the level of unpacking you require with your Surveyor so that it can be included in your quotation.
Can you take away the packing materials after my move?
Where possible, Doree Bonner aims to collect used cartons as part of its recycling policy.
Flattened cartons can be collected when a Doree Bonner vehicle is next in your area. Speak to your Move Coordinator to arrange this.
What should I do if I have a problem after the move?
Contact your Move Coordinator or Doree Bonner as soon as possible.
Whether you have a question about an item, damage, missing belongings, storage or another aspect of your move, the team can advise you on the appropriate next step.
Moving house with Doree Bonner
Why choose Doree Bonner for my UK removal?
Doree Bonner has been helping families move locally and nationally for more than 100 years.
The UK moving service includes a dedicated Move Coordination team, free virtual or in-person surveys, professional packing and unpacking, storage options and specialist equipment. Doree Bonner also states that it has a network of 150 employees and 60 vehicles across 10 UK locations, together with more than 9,300 storage containers.
Can I speak to someone about my move before requesting a quote?
Yes. Doree Bonner offers free virtual consultations and home visits, giving you the opportunity to discuss your move with a member of the team before making your arrangements.
For a complex or full-house move, this is a useful opportunity to discuss access, packing, storage, specialist items and your preferred moving schedule.
Ready to make your move?
Still have questions, or ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re moving home in the UK, relocating overseas or looking for secure storage, our team is here to help.
Get a free, no-obligation quote and talk to one of our experienced moving specialists about your requirements. We’ll help you understand your options, answer any questions and make sure your move is planned around your needs.
Prefer to speak to someone first? Contact our team and we’ll be happy to help.