Friday 29 August is set to be the most popular day of the year to move home, with more than 22,000 households expected to complete their move on that date – four times the daily average – according to new research from HomeOwners Alliance and reallymoving.
Drawing on analysis of over 700,000 removal quotes, the data highlights a clear seasonal trend, with August once again emerging as the UK’s busiest month for home moves and a pattern consistent for the past 13 years.
At the other end of the spectrum, January and February remain the quietest months for movers.
According to HomeOwners Alliance, the UK sees around 2.1 million moves each year – an average of 6,000 per day. But the last Friday in August now significantly outpaces that average, with 22,386 households due to move on 29 August alone.
TFI FRIDAY
Fridays are, by far, the most common day to move, accounting for 29% of moves – in stark contrast to Sundays, when just 5% of people choose to relocate.
But while a Friday move allows the weekend for unpacking, experts warn that peak demand can significantly increase the risk of delays.
A new survey of removal firms has found that 85% report a higher likelihood of delays on busy moving days.
Common issues include late transfers of funds via conveyancers or the banking system (88%), delays in key handovers (69%) and knock-on problems within the property chain (67%).
BUSY BUT STRESSFUL
Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of the HomeOwners Alliance, says: “Friday 29th August will be the year’s busiest moving day – but that also means the most stressful.”
And Rob Houghton, Chief Executive of reallymoving, adds: “Moving on the busiest day of the year means there will be more competition for removal services.”
Ian Studd, Director General of the British Association of Removers, also stressed the importance of proper planning: “For a smooth move – especially on the busiest day of the year – get a contract in place with your removal firm.
“This should include a survey and a clear move plan outlining what happens when, and the responsibilities of both you and the mover. A successful move depends on everyone doing their part.”
