Potential pitfalls that could make or break a self move

While around 64% of home movers are now choosing to move themselves, for cost cutting reasons, it could prove the least cost effective option, according to research by the UK's leading home move website, Moveme.com.

The majority of movers registering with Moveme.com between June and December 2008, planned to move home without any professional assistance. However, while this may cut costs in the short term, there are a number of considerations, which could make or break a self move:

Collecting and returning a self drive van, which may be some considerable distance

Danger of personal injury lifting heavy items – the average wardrobe weighs around 60kg

Breaking delicate items

Sourcing your own boxes of the correct size and packing materials

Large items of furniture getting damaged by getting stuck in narrow doorways or hallways

Enlisting the help of friends and family for a whole day

Jonathan Turpin, Chief Executive of Moveme.com, said: “While a growing number of home movers, whether renting or buying, are looking for ways to minimise their costs, moving home without professional assistance is not without its risks, or costs. Unless you have very few possessions, are incredibly fit and strong, or are prepared to make a considerable number of trips back and forth, you may well live to regret it.”

The average cost of using a full service removal firm, for a typical family of four, is around £1,000, compared to around £250 to hire a self-drive van. However, with petrol costs, packaging materials and the potential loss or damage of numerous items needing to be taken into consideration, in addition to the extra hassles associated with moving yourself, budgeting for the use of a professional removal company could save time and money.

For a useful, free to use MovePlanner, go to moveme.com