Moving a 1-bedroom property may sound simple at first glance, but the reality can be far more complex. Whether you’re relocating from a house, flat, or apartment, several factors influence the cost and difficulty of the move. Understanding these challenges will help you better prepare and ensure a smoother transition.

The Challenges of Moving from a Flat or Apartment

Relocating from a flat or apartment presents unique challenges, especially if you’re on an upper floor. Here are some of the most common difficulties:

1. Limited Lift Access or No Lift at All
   If your building has a lift, it’s a great advantage, but delays can still occur. Lifts may be too small to accommodate large furniture such as sofas or mattresses, meaning they’ll have to be carried down the stairs. Additionally, if other residents are using the lift during your move, you might experience long waits, adding time and complexity to the process.
2. Staircases and Physical Strain
   Moving large items up or down multiple flights of stairs is not only exhausting but also increases the risk of damage to both the items and the property. Narrow or steep staircases can make manoeuvring bulky furniture extremely challenging, requiring experienced movers to ensure everything is transported safely.
3. Corridors and Tight Spaces
   Flats and apartments often have narrow corridors, awkward turns, or small doorways. These spaces can make moving furniture like wardrobes, desks, or dining tables especially tricky. Items may need to be disassembled and reassembled, adding time and effort to the move.
4. Parking and Access Issues
   Unlike houses with driveways, many flats and apartments lack convenient parking. This means removal vans may have to park farther away, requiring movers to carry items over longer distances. This extra effort can significantly impact the time and cost of the move.

How Moving from a Flat Can Be More Difficult than a House Move

While a house typically offers easier access, such as driveways or back doors, a flat or apartment often lacks these conveniences. Moving from an upper floor, dealing with lifts or stairs, and navigating communal areas can make a flat move more complex, even if the overall volume of items is the same as a house.

Real-Life Cost Examples for Moving a 1-Bedroom Property

The cost of moving a 1-bedroom property varies depending on factors such as distance, accessibility, and the amount of belongings you have. Below are some examples of average costs for moving locally (within 20 miles):

• 1-Bedroom Flat (Ground Floor): £250 – £350
  This assumes easy access, no stairs, and a relatively small volume of belongings.
• 1-Bedroom Flat (Upper Floor with Lift): £300 – £450
  Costs increase slightly due to potential lift delays and the time required to navigate communal areas.
• 1-Bedroom Flat (Upper Floor with No Lift): £400 – £550
  Without a lift, movers will need to carry everything down the stairs, which is physically demanding and time-consuming.
• 1-Bedroom House: £300 – £400
  Houses typically have better access for removal vans and fewer obstacles, making them slightly less complex than flats.

How MNM Removals Can Help

At MNM Removals, we specialise in handling even the most challenging moves. Our experienced team understands the complexities of moving from flats, apartments, and houses, ensuring your belongings are transported safely and efficiently.

Here’s how we make the process easier:

• Free Pre-Move Assessment: We’ll visit your property to assess access issues, furniture size, and any specific requirements, ensuring we’re fully prepared on moving day.
• Professional Packing Services: We can securely pack your items to protect them during transit, saving you time and effort.
• Specialist Equipment: For flats with no lift access or narrow staircases, we use specialist equipment to safely move heavy or bulky items.
• Transparent Pricing: Our affordable rates are tailored to your specific needs, so you only pay for the services you require.

Practical Tips for Moving from a Flat or Apartment

1. Book Early: Notify your removal company well in advance so they can plan for access challenges.
2. Reserve the Lift: If your building has a lift, check with your building manager if you can reserve it for your move.
3. Measure Doorways and Corridors: Ensure large items can fit through all access points or plan for disassembly if needed.
4. Pack Efficiently: Use strong boxes and clearly label them with the room they belong to, making unloading easier.
5. Notify Neighbours: Inform neighbours of your moving date to minimise disruptions in communal areas.

Conclusion

Moving a 1-bedroom house, flat, or apartment comes with its own set of challenges, but with proper planning and the right removal team, these obstacles can be easily overcome. Flats, in particular, require careful consideration of access, lifts, and communal spaces, which can make them just as demanding as larger moves.

At MNM Removals, we’re here to take the stress out of your relocation. Whether you’re moving from a ground-floor flat or a high-rise apartment, our affordable, professional service ensures your belongings are handled with care. Contact us today for a free quote and let us make your move a smooth and stress-free experience.