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August 4, 2026
This year, Friday 28 August is expected to be the busiest day to move – four times busier than an average moving day – with an estimated 22,904 households moving.
The forecast comes from HomeOwners Alliance and reallymoving’s analysis of more than 750,000 removal quotes. The research found that August has been the most popular month to move home in each of the past 14 years, while January and February are consistently the quietest.
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HomeOwners Alliance estimates that around 2.2 million household moves take place across the UK each year – an average of approximately 6,000 a day. Friday remains by far the most popular day of the week, accounting for 29% of moves, while only 5% take place on a Sunday.
Commenting on the findings, Paula Higgins, Chief Executive of HomeOwners Alliance, said:
“Moving home is stressful enough without competing with nearly 23,000 other households for removal firms, conveyancers and estate agents. Anyone moving on Friday 28 August should book early, confirm arrangements across the chain and have a contingency plan in case of delays. Where possible, choosing a quieter day earlier in the week could mean less pressure, greater choice and potentially better value.”
Rob Houghton, CEO of reallymoving, added:
“Demand for removal firms will be exceptionally high, so preparation is vital. Ask your removals company to assess everything you need to move, either in person or through a detailed video survey, to make sure the right-sized vehicle and team are booked for the day.”
Moving day is often one of the most exciting – and stressful – parts of buying or selling a home. While some delays are outside your control, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of problems and help your move go as smoothly as possible.
Friday is traditionally the most popular day to complete, but it can also be the busiest. Choosing an earlier day in the week may give you more flexibility, with greater availability from removal firms and potentially lower costs. It may also give you extra time to resolve any unexpected issues before the weekend. Find out what to consider when picking a day to move.
Removal firms can get booked up quickly, especially around popular moving dates. It’s a good idea to get quotes early so you understand your options, but avoid making a non-refundable booking until contracts have been exchanged and your completion date is confirmed. Read our guide: How much does it cost to move house?
If you’re buying and selling at the same time, your move may depend on several other transactions completing successfully. The longer the property chain, the greater the risk that a delay elsewhere could affect your moving day. Stay in regular contact with your estate agent and conveyancer, and make sure everyone involved knows the intended completion date.
Communication is key on moving day. Make sure your conveyancer has everything they need in advance and check in with them early on the day itself so you know that your move is on track. Delays can still happen this late in the process, if funds are still being transferred or paperwork hasn’t been completed, so staying informed can help you respond quickly if issues arise.
Even with careful planning, delays can happen. Keep essential items such as medication, chargers, important documents and valuables with you rather than packed away.
It’s also worth thinking ahead about what you’ll do if you can’t collect your keys at the expected time. Consider where you could wait, what you’ll need access to and whether you have somewhere safe to store your belongings temporarily. Read our guide: Moving house checklist: what to do before, during and after your move
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