Moving doesn’t always mean packing up an entire house. Many Londoners relocate from a one-bedroom flat or shared accommodation, or simply need to move a few key items between locations. Yet, even small moves can become stressful and expensive if not organised properly.
At BL Removals, we specialise in helping people manage small moves efficiently and affordably. Whether you’re moving across town or a few streets away, these practical tips will help you stay within budget while keeping the process smooth and stress-free.
Start with a clear inventory
Before anything else, list what you’re actually moving.
Write down all furniture, boxes, and bulky items, then separate them into categories such as “must move,” “can donate,” and “can sell.”
Creating a detailed inventory helps you:
Know how much space you’ll need in the van
Avoid paying for unnecessary vehicle size or extra trips
Decide what can be packed early
💡 Tip: Take quick photos of each room before packing — it’ll help you remember everything on the day and keep track of fragile items.
Compare man and van quotes wisely
For small moves, a man and van service is often much more economical than hiring a full removals crew.
When comparing prices:
Ask what’s included in the hourly rate (fuel, loading, and unloading).
Confirm the minimum booking time (many start at two hours).
Check if there are extra fees for stairs, parking, or waiting time.
At BL Removals, we always give transparent pricing with no hidden fees. For very small jobs — like moving a single sofa or a few boxes — our hourly-based man and van option is often the most cost-effective solution in London.
Declutter before moving
Every item you move adds to your total cost, especially if the move requires multiple van loads.
Set aside a few hours to sort through clothes, books, and unused household items.
You can:
Sell items on Facebook Marketplace or Vinted
Donate to local charities or community shops
Recycle broken or outdated pieces properly
Decluttering not only saves money but makes unpacking far easier.
Pack smart using what you already have
There’s no need to overspend on boxes and materials.
Before buying anything, check what you already have:
Suitcases and duffel bags are perfect for clothes and linens.
Plastic bins or laundry baskets can hold lighter items.
Towels, blankets, and jumpers can wrap fragile goods safely.
If you still need extra boxes, BL Removals can supply quality, double-walled cartons and tape at cost-effective rates — or we can professionally pack your belongings for you.
Label and group boxes logically
Small moves are often completed in just one trip, but good organisation still saves time.
Label boxes clearly by room and content type — e.g., “Kitchen – Glasses” or “Bedroom – Books”.
If possible, stack boxes of similar weight together near the door to speed up loading.
The faster your movers can work, the less you pay overall.
Choose the right time and day
Timing affects moving costs in London more than many people realise.
Avoid Fridays, weekends, and the last few days of the month when demand peaks.
Midweek and mid-month moves are usually quieter, and roads are less congested.
By being flexible with your schedule, you can often save 10–20% on hourly rates.
Sort parking in advance
Nothing increases stress (or costs) like struggling to park a moving van in central London.
Check your local council’s website for temporary parking dispensations or suspensions near both addresses.
If you’re unsure, our team at BL Removals can guide you through the process and help secure the right permits before moving day — saving time and potential fines.
Prepare access points
Before your movers arrive:
Reserve lift access if you live in a block of flats.
Ensure hallways and staircases are clear.
Keep pets and small children safely out of the way.
These simple preparations help our team load faster and protect your items and property.
Keep essentials separate
Always pack a “moving day bag” with:
Keys and important documents
Phone chargers
Snacks and water
Cleaning supplies and basic tools
You don’t want to unpack everything just to find your kettle or toothbrush.
Confirm details the day before
Send your mover the exact pickup and drop-off addresses, including floor numbers, parking instructions, and estimated load size.
At BL Removals, we send a confirmation message the day before every job so clients know exactly when our team will arrive and what to expect.
Final thoughts
Small moves can be simple, quick, and affordable — if you plan ahead.
With a bit of preparation, smart packing, and help from a reliable man and van team, you’ll save both time and money.
At BL Removals, we’ve been helping Londoners move efficiently since 2004.
Whether you’re relocating a studio flat, office corner, or just a few boxes, our experienced movers make sure your move is done right, first time.
