How to Save Money When Moving House

The Best Way to Cut Costs? Get Organised Early

Moving house in the UK can be surprisingly expensive — between hiring removal services, buying packing materials and taking time off work, the costs add up fast. But here’s something many people overlook:

The single most effective way to save money when moving house is to get organised.

Not just a little bit organised. Properly organised.

Whether you're moving across town or relocating entirely, being methodical with your planning can save you hundreds of pounds and a lot of stress.

Here's how to do it.

1. Declutter Before You Pack

Fewer Boxes = Lower Moving Costs

Every item you move takes time, space, and money. Removal firms often charge based on volume or time, so the more you bring, the more you pay.

Before you even think about packing:

• Go through each room and get rid of anything you no longer use or need.

• Sell unwanted items online (Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, Vinted).

• Donate to local charities or recycling centres.

  
  

Bonus tip: The cash you make from selling things can help cover moving costs like van hire or new home essentials.

2. Use a Clear Labelling System

Save Time (and Money) on Moving Day

You don’t need colour-coded spreadsheets, but a simple labelling system can make a huge difference.

• Label each box with the room it belongs to and a brief list of contents.

• Mark anything fragile clearly.

• Stack boxes by room so movers can load and unload efficiently.

  
  

Why this matters: Removal companies often charge by the hour. If your boxes are well-labelled, they won’t waste time asking where things go — meaning a faster, cheaper move.

3. Pick the Right Time to Move

Avoid Peak Prices

If you’re flexible, choose your moving date wisely.

• Avoid weekends and the end of the month, when demand is highest.

• Mid-week, mid-month moves are often cheaper and more available.

• Book as early as possible to secure better rates.

  
  

Did you know? Some removal firms offer discounts for moves on less popular days — it’s worth asking.

4. Don’t Buy What You Can Borrow

Cut Down on Packing Supply Costs

Packing materials can be expensive, but there are ways around it:

• Ask friends or neighbours if they have spare boxes, bubble wrap, or tape.

• Join local Facebook groups or Buy Nothing communities — someone nearby has probably just moved and would be happy to pass supplies on.

• Supermarkets and shops often have free cardboard boxes you can take.

Reusing materials doesn’t just save money — it’s more sustainable too.

5. Make a Moving Checklist

Stay Ahead, Avoid Last-Minute Costs

A bit of planning prevents costly mistakes. Here’s what to include:

• Redirect your post.

• Update utility providers (gas, electricity, broadband).

• Pack a “first night” box with essentials (kettle, chargers, toiletries).

• Arrange childcare or pet care, if needed.

It’s the little things — forgetting to cancel an old service or scrambling to buy something last-minute — that quietly rack up the costs.

Final Thoughts: Planning is Cheaper Than Panic

Being organised might not seem like a money-saving tactic, but it’s the most powerful tool you have during a move.

The earlier you start, the more in control you are — and the less you’ll spend reacting to problems you could have avoided.

Declutter. Label. Plan. Save.

Looking for more tips?

Check out our other guides on:

• How to pack efficiently for a house move

• What to do in the first 7 days after moving

• Choosing the right UK removal company