When it comes to moving house, timing isn’t just about convenience — it can make a huge difference to the price you pay. The cost of removals can vary significantly depending on the day of the week, time of year, and how far in advance you book. For homeowners looking to save money, understanding when removal costs are at their lowest is one of the simplest ways to cut expenses.
In this guide, we’ll break down which days tend to be the cheapest for house removals, why prices fluctuate, and how you can plan your move to get the best deal. Whether you’re hiring a full removal company or a man & van service, this article will give you practical, actionable advice.
Why Do Removal Costs Vary by Day?
Removal costs fluctuate largely due to supply and demand. Removal companies have limited capacity — trucks, drivers, and labour — so pricing reflects how busy they are at any given time.
Supply and Demand Factors
- Higher demand = higher price: When more people want to move, companies can charge more.
- Limited availability: The fewer slots available, the more expensive they become.
- Labour availability: Some days require overtime pay or weekend rates for staff.
Weekend vs Weekday Pricing
Weekends are always in high demand. Many homeowners prefer to move on Saturdays or Sundays because they’re off work, don’t need to take annual leave, and can settle in before the workweek begins. As a result, weekend moves almost always come at a premium.
End-of-Month Surges
Many rental agreements end at the end of the month, leading to surges in demand. This spike often drives up prices from the 28th to the 2nd of the following month.
School Holidays and Peak Seasons
During school holidays — particularly summer and half-term breaks — families often schedule moves to avoid disrupting children’s education. Unsurprisingly, removal prices soar during these periods due to heightened demand.
Cheapest Days of the Week to Move
If you’re purely looking for the cheapest day of the week for removals, the answer is usually midweek — specifically Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Why Tuesday to Thursday is Cheaper
- Fewer people request these days.
- Removal companies are less booked, increasing competition.
- Lower risk of last-minute cancellations freeing up capacity.
Why Monday and Friday Cost More
- Many homeowners choose Friday to give themselves the weekend to unpack, creating high demand.
- Mondays are often used for spillover bookings when companies are still dealing with weekend moves.
The Cost Impact of Weekend Moves
- Weekend moves can cost 20-30% more than midweek alternatives.
- Some companies apply flat surcharges for Saturday or Sunday slots.
Cheapest Times of Year for Removals
Your moving date on the calendar is just as important as the day of the week.
Off-Peak Seasons (January – March)
- Typically the quietest months for the property market.
- Bad weather can deter moves, but companies often offer discounted rates to fill schedules.
- Ideal for homeowners who can be flexible with timing.
Summer Peak Season (June – September)
- Prices are at their highest.
- High demand from families, students, and renters.
- Expect limited availability and premium pricing.
End-of-Year Considerations (School Holidays, Christmas)
- December sees another surge due to people wanting to move before Christmas.
- Early January may offer deals, but mid-to-late December often commands higher fees.
Man & Van vs Full-Service Removals: Does Timing Matter?
The type of removal service you choose can also influence how much timing affects your costs.
Man & Van Prices May Fluctuate Less
- Smaller, flexible operations.
- Lower overheads and more availability midweek.
- Less affected by peak family moving seasons.
You can learn more about the full range of services offered by a man with a van company to see if this option could be more cost-effective for your move.
Full-Service Removals Are More Sensitive to Dates
- Larger teams, trucks, and logistics involved.
- More bookings during peak periods mean higher prices.
- Require more advanced scheduling.
Practical Cost Difference Example:
| Move Type | Peak Period Price | Off-Peak Price |
| Full-Service Removals | £1,000 – £1,500 | £700 – £1,000 |
| Man & Van | £300 – £500 | £200 – £400 |
(These are average costs for local UK moves; long-distance or complex moves may vary.)
Other Timing Factors That Affect Price
Last-Minute Bookings vs Advanced Bookings
- Booking 6-8 weeks in advance often secures the best rate.
- Last-minute bookings (1-2 weeks out) may limit your options and result in premium pricing.
Time of Day
- Morning slots are generally more expensive due to their popularity.
- Afternoon or late-day slots may be cheaper but carry risk of delays if earlier jobs run over.
Weather Considerations in the UK
- Poor weather (heavy rain, snow, or extreme cold) can lead to delays and cancellations.
- Companies may charge more during risky seasons due to increased operational challenges.
How to Save Money on Your Moving Day
If you want to cut costs, consider these practical steps:
- Book early: Lock in better rates by scheduling 6–8 weeks in advance.
- Be flexible: Midweek and mid-month dates usually offer the best deals.
- Avoid school holidays and weekends: These are the most expensive times.
- Compare multiple quotes: Get at least 3 quotes from different removal companies.
- Consider a man & van service: Especially for smaller moves or short distances.
Conclusion
The cheapest days for removals are usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays — ideally during off-peak months like January through March. By avoiding weekends, school holidays, and end-of-month rushes, you can often save hundreds of pounds on your move.
With a bit of flexibility and forward planning, it’s entirely possible to make your move more affordable without compromising on quality or convenience.
If you’re planning a move soon, find out which days are typically the cheapest for removals and compare quotes to get the best deal.
