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A move to another town or city needs more preparation than a short trip across the neighbourhood. With a longer journey between properties, forgotten items, access problems or an unsuitable van can be harder to put right. This guide explains how to prepare for long distance moving and what to discuss with your moving company before the day.
Start with a clear list of what you are moving
Make an inventory of your furniture, boxes and larger household items. Include anything stored in the loft, garage or garden, and flag fragile or unusually heavy pieces. Photos and measurements can help your mover assess the space and handling needed.
For a long-distance move, choosing enough vehicle space is especially important. A second journey may add considerable time and cost. Tell your mover if your inventory changes after you receive your quote.
Choose the right van and level of help
A man and van service can suit a smaller household move, a student relocation or a furniture delivery between cities. Larger moves may require a bigger vehicle, more people or a different arrangement. Discuss the full inventory rather than choosing a van based only on the number of bedrooms.
Be clear about who will carry your belongings. Confirm how many people are included, whether you are expected to assist, and whether large items need two people to handle them safely. If you cannot help with lifting, explain this before booking so suitable assistance can be arranged.
Check what your quote includes
Ask for a written breakdown so you can compare services on the same basis. Useful questions include:
- Does the price include the full journey and the agreed loading and unloading time?
- How are additional time, extra stops or changes to the inventory charged?
- Are stairs, long carrying distances and parking costs included?
- Is packing or furniture assembly and disassembly included, or must it be arranged separately?
- What protection applies to your belongings, and what limits or exclusions should you understand?
Confirm the collection time and expected delivery arrangements. Allow for traffic and breaks rather than relying on a journey estimate as a guaranteed arrival time.
Pack for the journey
Use sturdy boxes, cushion fragile items and fill empty spaces so contents cannot move around freely. Put heavy items in smaller boxes and avoid overfilling them. Label each box with its destination room and mark fragile contents clearly.
Keep screws and fittings from dismantled furniture in labelled bags. Discuss dismantling in advance and avoid taking apart items that are not designed for repeated disassembly. Photograph valuable or delicate belongings before the move and point out any handling concerns to your mover.
For more preparation ideas, read our packing and moving house guide.
Plan access at both addresses
Check where the van can park, whether there are vehicle-height restrictions, and how far items must be carried. Tell your mover about narrow staircases, small lifts and awkward entrances. Arrange access to the destination and confirm when keys will be available.
If you are moving in London before travelling further afield, give particular attention to parking and building access at collection. A well-planned loading area can make the start of the journey much smoother.
Keep your first-night essentials with you
Pack a separate bag with medication, important documents, chargers, toiletries, a change of clothes and anything your children need. Keep keys and valuables with you, and make sure you can contact your driver during the journey.
At delivery, check your inventory and the vehicle before the driver leaves. Raise any concerns promptly and keep your booking details and photographs together.
Discuss your long-distance move with JP Man & Van
Planning a move from London to another part of the UK? Contact JP Man & Van with your collection and delivery postcodes, preferred date, inventory and access details. We can discuss your requirements and help you choose a suitable moving arrangement.