Complete Guide to Moving House in Surrey: Costs, Tips & What to Expect in 2025

Ashley removals and storage, moving you accross the UK

Moving house in Surrey can feel overwhelming, whether you’re relocating within Cranleigh, moving from Guildford to Godalming, or making the jump from Surrey to Hampshire or West Sussex. After 12 years of helping families and professionals move across the region, we’ve learned exactly what makes a Surrey house move successful—and what causes unnecessary stress.

This guide covers everything you need to know about moving house in Surrey, from realistic costs to timing your move perfectly.

How Much Does a House Removal Cost in Surrey?

One of the first questions we hear is: “How much will my move cost?” The honest answer is that every move is different, but here’s what you can typically expect in Surrey:

Typical Removal Costs in Surrey (2025)

Local moves (within Surrey, Hampshire, or West Sussex): All depending on volume and if we pre-load the day before

  • 1-bedroom flat: from £450
  • 2-bedroom house: from £650
  • 3-bedroom house: from £900
  • 4+ bedroom house: from £1,200

National moves (anywhere in the UK):

  • Starting from £1,800 depending on distance and volume

What Affects Your Removal Cost?

Your final quote depends on several factors:

  • Property size and cubic footage: We conduct a free on-site survey to calculate exactly how much space your belongings will need
  • Distance: Local Surrey moves versus long-distance relocations
  • Access: Narrow lanes in villages like Alfold or Loxwood may require smaller vehicles or additional time
  • Packing services: Full packing service, materials only, or self-pack
  • Special items: Pianos, antiques, or fragile valuables requiring extra care
  • Pre-loading: If you need us to load the day before your move (adds approximately £650+)

Important: We don’t charge hourly rates for local moves. Instead, we provide a fixed quote based on your specific requirements—no hidden extras, no surprises on moving day.

Best Time of Year to Move in Surrey

Timing your move strategically can save you money and stress.

Peak Moving Season

  • Busiest days: Wednesday to Friday
  • Quietest periods: Start and end of school holidays, winter months
  • Booking lead time: Most customers book 2–6 weeks in advance

Our Recommendation

If you have flexibility, consider moving:

  • Mid-week (Monday–Wednesday) for better availability
  • During term time if you don’t have school-age children
  • Outside of summer for potentially better rates and availability

What Happens During Your Free Home Survey?

Unlike some removal companies that provide quotes over the phone, we believe in seeing your home first. Here’s what happens during our free on-site survey:

The Survey Process

  1. Complete property walkthrough: We assess every room, including the loft, garage, garden sheds, and outbuildings
  2. Cubic footage calculation: We measure exactly how much van space you’ll need
  3. Pre-existing damage documentation: We note any existing marks or damage to protect both you and our team
  4. Special requirements discussion: Pianos, antiques, awkward access, parking restrictions
  5. Personalized quote: You’ll receive a detailed, fixed-price quote—usually the same day or next day

This survey typically adds 10–15 minutes to the process but ensures accuracy and protects everyone involved.

10 Things Professional Movers Wish You Knew

After thousands of moves across Surrey, here’s what we wish every customer knew before moving day:

1. Start Packing Earlier Than You Think

Most people underestimate how long packing takes. Start at least 4 weeks before your move with items you rarely use.

2. Label Everything Clearly

Mark boxes with the room AND a brief contents list. “Kitchen – pots and pans” is far more helpful than just “Kitchen.”

3. Don’t Forget the Boxes

The most commonly forgotten item during surveys? Boxes. Make sure we know how many you’ll need so we can plan vehicle capacity accurately.

4. Book Your Move Early

Our busiest periods fill up quickly. Booking 2–6 weeks ahead ensures you get your preferred date.

5. Declutter Before You Pack

Moving is the perfect time to donate, sell, or dispose of items you no longer need. Less to move means lower costs.

6. Prepare an Essentials Box

Pack a box with kettle, tea, coffee, toilet paper, phone chargers, and basic tools. You’ll need these immediately at your new home.

7. Communicate Access Issues

Narrow lanes, parking restrictions, or low bridges? Let us know during the survey so we can plan accordingly.

8. Empty Drawers and Wardrobes

Unless we’ve agreed otherwise, drawers and wardrobes should be emptied to prevent damage and reduce weight.

9. Protect Valuables Separately

Keep important documents, jewelry, and sentimental items with you during the move.

10. Be Present on Moving Day

Having someone available to answer questions makes the process smoother and faster.

Understanding Removal Insurance in Surrey

We’re fully insured for damage or loss during moves, with coverage up to £25,000 total. Here’s what you need to know:

Standard Coverage

Most customers use our basic coverage: maximum £40 per item. This covers typical household goods without requiring detailed valuations.

Full Coverage

For high-value items, we can arrange full coverage with a detailed inventory and valuations. This is rarely needed but available for antiques, art, or valuable collections.

How We Protect Your Belongings

  • Padded blankets for furniture protection
  • Secure loading techniques using rail ties
  • Careful handling protocols for fragile items
  • Pre-move inspection checklist to document existing damage

In 12 years of operation, we’ve had only one complaint—a track record we’re proud of.

Moving House Checklist: 8 Weeks to a Stress-Free Move

8 Weeks Before

  • Request free home survey from Ashley Removals
  • Declutter and donate unwanted items
  • Notify your landlord or estate agent

6 Weeks Before

  • Confirm your moving date and book your removal
  • Start collecting packing materials if self-packing
  • Notify schools, doctors, and dentists

4 Weeks Before

  • Begin packing non-essential items
  • Arrange mail redirection with Royal Mail
  • Update your address with banks, insurance, DVLA

2 Weeks Before

  • Confirm details with Ashley Removals
  • Pack most rooms, leaving only essentials
  • Arrange final meter readings

1 Week Before

  • Pay final balance (due 7 days before move)
  • Pack essentials box
  • Defrost freezer

Moving Day

  • Be present for the removal team
  • Do final walkthrough of old property
  • Hand over keys

After Moving

  • Unpack essentials first
  • Check inventory against our checklist
  • Leave us a Google review if you’re happy with the service

Why Choose Ashley Removals for Your Surrey Move?

We’re not the biggest removal company in Surrey, but we’re proud to be one of the most trusted. Here’s why:

  • Family-based approach: Personalized service, not corporate call centers
  • 12 years of experience: Serving Cranleigh, Guildford, Godalming, and surrounding areas
  • 60% repeat business: Most of our work comes from customers who’ve used us before or were referred by friends
  • Free on-site surveys: No guesswork, no hidden costs
  • Fully insured: Comprehensive coverage for your peace of mind
  • Flexible fleet: From Luton vans to large lorries, we have the right vehicle for your move

Ready to Move? Get Your Free Quote Today

Moving house in Surrey doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper planning, the right removal company, and realistic expectations, your move can be smooth and straightforward.

We offer free, no-obligation home surveys throughout Surrey, Hampshire, and West Sussex. Whether you’re moving locally or nationally, we’ll provide a detailed, fixed-price quote with no hidden extras.

Contact Ashley Removals today:

  • Visit: ashleyremovals.co.uk
  • Call us for your free survey
  • Serving Cranleigh, Guildford, Godalming, Pulborough, Billingshurst, and surrounding areas

About the Author: This guide was created by the team at Ashley Removals, a family-run removal company based in Cranleigh, Surrey, with over 12 years of experience helping families and businesses move across Surrey, Hampshire, West Sussex, and throughout the UK.