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Simpler low-cost alternative for smaller moves

If you’re moving from a studio or one bedroom flat, you could save money by using a man with a van instead of a large removals company.

It is often cheaper to use a man with a van instead of renting or hiring a van for moving. Renting/ Hiring takes up valuable time, fuel, deposits, hassle etc. Man and Van removals are naturally the quicker easier & faster moving option, being time & labour efficient. They help you load the van (unless you request extra labour), this keeps the charges low and saves time and money as everyone helps to load and unload.

You can find many reliable man and van removal companies online, Most man and van removal services are unlikely to offer a packing service and may not be insured, however they can be just as efficient and reliable as a big brand removal company when you have less to be moved and will more than likely be considerably cheaper as long as you do some research. Make sure you check the following with them:

Questions for them

• How big is their van and can they carry your largest item?
• Will it take all of your belongings in one trip?
• If not, can they do more than one trip and is it included in the price?
• How many people will they supply to do the lifting and carrying?
• Can you travel in the van with them (for peace of mind and directions?)
• Are they insured (what happens if they break something)

Questions for you

• Have you arranged parking and access outside both moving addresses?
• Have you got the keys, right address, postcodes, etc?
• Will there be any on the way drop off/collections?
• Will you need two helpers or are you able to help the driver?
• Will everything be packed on the day of the move?
• Do doors need to be removed? Are walkways clear if required?
• Dishwasher, washing machines, etc. Unplumbed ready to go?
• Have you got cash/cheque payments ready for completion of the job?
• Have you got enough boxes? Little unboxed items slow down the move.

More Moving Tips

Average storage space sizes of flats
1 Bedroom 35 - 50 sq ft
2 Bedrooms 50 - 80 sq ft
3 Bedrooms 100 - 150 sq ft

Pack in advance

• Start collecting you boxes a few weeks in advance, try asking at supermarkets and local shops, who will normally have plenty of unwanted boxes.
• If you’re trying to save money this is an ideal option instead of buying expensive boxes, don’t worry about different sized boxes, Most man and van men are skilled at packing the removals van so this shouldn’t be a problem.
• Start packing at least a week before you are due to move, leaving only the essential items to the last minute.
• Label your boxes clearly and if possible make a list of the items in each box and keep it to hand.
• Have a good clear out, give items you no longer require to charity or friends.

Open boxes

• Please close and seal all of your boxes, boxes left open with items protruding are awkward and can be dangerous.
• If an item will not fit in a box please do not try to squeeze it in, bubble wrap it separately.

Don’t over fill your boxes

• Please do not over fill your boxes, remember that they have to be carried by you and your driver.
• If they are too heavy this will cause problems for you and your driver and the box may even break under the weight.

Don’t under fill your boxes

• Please do not under fill your boxes either; this may cause the boxes to collapse if heavy items are put on top.
• Try to distribute your items evenly throughout your boxes.
• If possible try to use suitcases, rucksacks and other items of luggage to pack clothes etc, these are preferable to black plastic bags which are often over filled and tear easily.
• If you do have to use sacks try to use top quality bags or even garden refuse bags which are very thick.

Fridges and Freezers

• Try not to buy any fridge or freezer food two weeks prior to moving, so nothing goes to waste.
• Remember to defrost and drain at least 48 hours before the move, appliances must be dry.

Breakables

• Try and wrap breakables and glass with a tea cloth, towel etc. Tableware and china are best wrapped in newspaper, then put in a box which has either bubble wrap or polystyrene blobs for a cushion.

Beds

• If your bed can be dismantled please ensure this is done prior to your move, this will save time and space.

Flat Pack Furniture

• Remember some furniture may not fit through your doorways unassembled.
• Try to dismantle self assembly furniture in advance this will save space in the van and will also be safer.
• Flat pack furniture does not travel well and is prone to loosening when being moved.
• Remember to put all nuts and bolts in a jiffy bag and preferably tape it to the item it came from.

General

• Tape shut fridge, freezer, cupboard doors
• Remove cables where possible or tape them to fridges, TV, microwaves, etc.
• Box as many small items as possible, bag squashy items like fabrics

Parking

• Always ensure that there is parking available outside of your premises on the day.
• Try talking to your neighbours in advance of the move and checking that they will move if necessary.
• Inform your mover of any obstacles/road works/walkways/difficult access
• You are usually responsible for paying metered parking & arranging parking dispensation

Copyright © 2009 CashandDeliver.com

Biography

This article was written by Ray Orison, who works for www.cashanddeliver.com, who are one of the largest Man and van removal operations in the UK with drivers based all over England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Visit the website for more information or call the Office: 0844 500 84 82, or Mobile: 07501 43 40 23.

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