It is a question most sellers/buyers ask when they are thinking of moving, but read on as we explain why sooner is not always better than later…
Have you exchanged contracts yet?
We advise that you do not book removals until you have exchanged contracts on either your sale or purchase or both!
This is because until contracts have been exchanged there is no binding agreement between the seller/buyer to proceed with the transaction, so either party can pull out, or either party can decide to change the moving date.
Whilst you may have agreed a completion date (moving date) with the other party or parties in the chain, it is not uncommon for previously agreed dates to change at the last minute.
What could happen if I book my removals too soon?
If you book your removals early and before exchange and then the other party pulls out or the date changes, you may lose your deposit or incur a cancellation fee.
Whilst you may want to book sooner rather than later, it is much better to wait until you have exchanged contracts, to have the certainty that you will be moving on the date agreed on exchange.
You can of course ring around the removal companies and obtain quotes and check when they are available. You may even be able to make a provisional booking without putting down a deposit or risking incurring a cancellation fee – but do check!
Then once you have exchanged, your solicitor/lawer or estate agent will let you know, so that you can confirm your provisional booking or make a booking with your chosen removal company.
When should I book my removals for?
When booking removals, it is worth bearing in mind that often Fridays and the end of the month are the most popular times to move and good removal companies are normally booked up well in advance. But do not let this sway you!
The best way to organise removals is to make enquiries, discuss tentative completion dates with the company, the other parties in the chain and the estate agents and be flexible, as this will help not only make it easier to agree a date but to make the whole process a little less stressful!
