Cost-Saving Myths and Misconceptions When Moving House

Moving house is one of those life events that everyone looks forward to and dreads at the same time. There is the excitement of a fresh start, a new place to call home and a chance to reset. But then there are the logistics – packing boxes, sorting through years of belongings and of course, figuring out how to move it all without breaking the bank.

Because moving can be expensive, most people naturally look for ways to save money. That is completely understandable. The problem is that there are many myths and misconceptions around cost-saving that can actually end up costing you more in the long run. What looks like a clever shortcut often leads to hidden costs, stress or even damage to your treasured possessions.

At Saint Removals, we have seen it all – from customers who tried to move everything themselves in a borrowed van to people who hired the cheapest company they could find online and ended up regretting it. With that in mind, let’s look at some of the most common money-saving myths around moving, and reveal what really makes sense when planning a realistic budget.

Myth 1: Hiring the Cheapest Removal Company Saves Money

When comparing quotes, it can be tempting to jump at the lowest price. After all, if one company says they will move you for £400 and another quotes £800, why would you want to pay more?

The reality is that not all quotes are created equal. A very low quote might look good on paper but often excludes important services such as insurance, packing, furniture dismantling or even charges for stairs and long walks from the van. Some companies also add on extra fees once the job has started, leaving you with a bigger bill than you expected.

There is also the question of quality. A very cheap company may cut corners on staff training, equipment or even vehicle maintenance. That can lead to delays, damage or a stressful moving day. In the end, you might spend more replacing broken furniture or taking time off work to sort out issues.

Tip: Instead of focusing only on the lowest number, compare what is actually included in each quote. A slightly higher price with a reputable, fully insured company often works out cheaper in the long run.

Myth 2: A DIY Move is Always Cheaper

Plenty of people believe that hiring a van and doing everything themselves is the cheapest way to move. For small local moves, this can sometimes be true. However, once you factor in all the costs, DIY is not always the bargain it seems.

Think about what is involved: hiring a van (often with a mileage charge), fuel, insurance, trolleys, blankets, straps, and potentially taking time off work. If you do not have experience lifting heavy items, there is also the risk of injury or damaging your furniture. Not to mention the stress of trying to fit a three-bedroom house into one van load.

Professional movers can pack and load far more efficiently, which often means fewer trips and less time overall. What you save in money with DIY can easily be lost in stress, broken items and extra days spent on the move.

Tip: DIY moves are best suited for single people or couples with very few belongings, ideally moving just a short distance. For families or full households, a professional removal service is usually far better value.

Myth 3: Free Boxes From The Supermarket Work Just As Well

It's common to see people collecting cardboard boxes from supermarkets or shops in the hope of saving money. While it feels like a smart idea, free boxes are often too flimsy, the wrong size or weakened from carrying food and liquids. They can collapse under the weight of books or tear when lifted, risking damage to your belongings.

Professional moving boxes are designed to be strong, stackable and easy to carry. Using the right materials not only protects your possessions but also makes the moving process smoother and quicker.

Tip: If you want to save money on packing materials, ask your removal company about reusable crates. They are sturdy, eco-friendly and often available to hire at a reasonable cost.

Myth 4 : Packing Everything Yourself Always Saves Money

Some people believe that by packing everything themselves, they will save on labour costs. While this is true to a point, it is not always the cheapest approach. Poor packing can cause breakages, which means you end up spending more replacing items than you saved.

Movers are trained to pack fragile and awkward items quickly and safely. They also bring the right materials for the job, such as wardrobe boxes, bubble wrap and protective blankets. Many companies offer partial packing services – you can pack clothes and books yourself but let the professionals handle glassware, electronics and valuable pieces.

Tip: Consider a hybrid approach. Do the straightforward packing yourself and let the experts take care of the delicate or bulky items. This way you save money without risking expensive damage.

Myth 5: It Doesn't Matter When You Move

Timing has a huge impact on cost. Many people believe that the date does not matter and that prices are the same year-round. In reality, weekends, the end of the month and the summer are the busiest times for removals. Because of demand, prices are often higher.

If you have flexibility, moving mid-week or mid-month can make a noticeable difference in price. Planning your move outside of peak season can also mean greater availability and less stress.

Myth 6: All Home Removal Quotes Are Basically The Same

Another common misconception is that all quotes include the same services, and it is just the price that differs. In fact, removal quotes can vary widely depending on what is included. Some companies charge extra for dismantling beds, disconnecting appliances or even providing packing tape. Others may include storage as part of the package.

Tip: Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what the quote covers. Make sure you are comparing like for like before making a decision.

Budgeting Tips For a Smart Move

Now that we have looked at some of the myths, here are a few practical tips to help you budget realistically for your move:

1. Get multiple quotes – aim for at least two or three so you can compare services and prices.

2. Ask what is included – check for extras such as packing, dismantling, storage or insurance.

3. Plan for hidden costs – budget for cleaning, utility connections and possible storage if your moving dates do not align.

4. Keep a small emergency fund – unexpected expenses can pop up, such as extra packing materials or last-minute delays.

5. Book early – this often secures a better price and ensures you get your preferred moving date.

Summary

Trying to save money on a move is perfectly natural. But sometimes the so-called savings are little more than myths that end up costing you more in the long run. Cheap quotes can come with hidden charges, DIY moves can be exhausting and risky, and free boxes are not always strong enough.

The best approach is to plan carefully, budget realistically and work with a removal company you can trust. At Saint Removals, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden surprises. Our team is experienced, professional and here to make your move as smooth as possible.

So before you fall for another moving myth, remember: value is more important than the lowest price. A well-planned move with the right support will not only save you money in the long run but also give you peace of mind when starting your next chapter.

Ready to move without the stress and hidden costs? Get in touch with Saint Removals today for a clear, no-obligation quote and let our friendly team make your next move smooth, simple and affordable.