Moving house is one of the bigger bills most of us face, and the removal itself is a large part of it. The good news is that plenty of savings come from planning rather than cutting corners.

1. Move midweek

Tuesday to Thursday moves are typically cheaper than Fridays and weekends, when demand peaks. If your completion date is flexible, ask your removal company what difference the day makes.

2. Avoid the busiest dates

School holidays, bank holiday weekends and the last few days of the month are busy for removal companies. Moving outside these times can bring the price down and gives you more choice of firms.

3. Declutter before you get removal quotes

Every item you move costs money in van space and crew time. Sell, donate or recycle before the survey, so the quote reflects what you're actually taking.

4. Compare at least three removal quotes

Prices for the same move can vary by hundreds of pounds between companies. Getting several removal quotes shows you the going rate and gives you room to negotiate.

5. Ask what's included

Check whether boxes, wrapping and furniture dismantling are in the price. A quote that looks cheaper can end up costing more once extras are added. Our guide on comparing removal quotes explains what to check.

6. Source free boxes

Supermarkets, off-licences and local shops often have sturdy boxes to give away. Friends who've recently moved are another source. Buying your own rather than taking a removal company's packing materials can save £50 to £100.

7. Wrap with what you have

Towels, bedding and clothing make good padding for fragile items. It saves on bubble wrap and you have to move them anyway.

8. Do your own packing

A full packing service can add £200 to £500 to the bill. Starting early and packing a room at a time makes it manageable. Our packing tips show how professionals do it.

9. Sort parking in advance

If the van can't park close to the door, the crew takes longer, and you pay for that time. Arrange permits or a bay suspension with your council where needed.

10. Be honest at the survey

Under-describing your belongings to get a lower quote usually backfires. If more turns up on the day, the company may charge extra or need a second trip. An accurate quote is the cheapest one in the end.