Best ideas

Removals

Get at least three written quotes from established removal firms, ideally using personal recommendations. Alternatively, www.moving-quotes.co.uk and www.moveme.com can provide a list of local removal companies. Ensure they are members of either the British Association of Removers (BAR) or the National Guild of Removers and Storers (NGRS), both of which can also recommend firms.

"Find out as much as you can about the firm," says Martin Rose, spokesman for NGRS. "How long have they been in business? Will access to the new property allow for the size of their vans? Can they provide references? Most importantly, don't assume cheapest is best. A lot of people do. They see removals as an unskilled job, but there's lots of risk involved. Also remember quotes may not be comparable. Does the quote include VAT? Does it cover insurance of yourpossessions in transit?"

If possible, get the packing done professionally. "Contrary to popular belief, it's not expensive and there's a chance insurance won't cover anything you've packed yourself," says a spokesman for BAR. "Also, packing can be the most time consuming and frustrating part of any move."

Don't take for granted that all your furniture will automatically fit into your new property, says Andrew Scholey, founder of www.helpiammoving.com. "If you have any doubts, check the removal company can dismantle it."

Ensure you get cancellation protection in case the date is changed at the last minute and label all boxes, says Linda Jeffcoat, regional director of Stacks Property Search and Acquisition. "A sensible belt-and-braces approach to this is colour-coding boxes and rooms."

For DIY moves, hire a van from a reputable hire car or van company such as Thrifty, Enterprise or Europcar and always check around the van before collection for any scratches or dents. A man with a van is another option, but always check they have a valid address rather than a PO box number and a landline rather than just a mobile. Don't forget insurance and if you need boxes, www.helpineedboxes.co.uk and www.theboxstore.co.uk sell good quality ones, while www.eco-boxes.co.uk supply ones that can be collected afterwards.