Movers in South Shields

Standard exclusions: hazardous materials (gas bottles, paint, chemicals, fuel — drain mowers first), perishable food, plants on long moves, and high-value items like jewellery, cash and documents, which you should carry yourself. Some firms also exclude or surcharge pianos, safes, and gym equipment — declare them upfront.

Warning signs: quotes far below everyone else, large cash deposits, no physical address or registration, and refusing a written contract. The classic scam is a lowball quote followed by a demand for more money while your goods are on the truck. Pay a small deposit at most, check reviews across platforms, and verify any claimed accreditation directly on the trade body's website.

Most companies offer full or partial packing as an add-on, priced by hours plus materials. Full packing can add 30-50% to the bill but transfers breakage liability for boxes the movers packed. If you pack yourself, finish before moving day — crews charge waiting time when boxes aren't ready.

Most crews will dismantle beds and large wardrobes and reassemble them at the destination, billed within the hourly rate — but confirm it's included and tell them how many items need it. Flat-pack furniture is fragile when rebuilt more than once; some firms refuse liability for it. Doing your own dismantling the day before saves an hour or more of crew time.

In 2025, a 1-2 bed home typically costs £400-£1,300 to move locally, a 3-bed around £900-£1,900, and larger houses £1,500-£3,500+. A man with a van for small moves runs £35-£95 per hour depending on crew size and region, with London at the top of every range.

Your removal crew loads in the morning but can't unload until the keys release — if the chain delays completion past early afternoon, waiting time is charged (commonly £40-£80 per hour per crew) and in the worst case goods go into overnight storage at your cost. Ask for these rates in writing when booking.