PLANNING5 MIN READ
Life doesn't always give you six weeks of notice. Chain-collapse rebooking, sudden completion, emergency exit — professional removals is genuinely possible on 48-hour notice. Here's what to expect.
Realistic lead times
| Notice | Availability | Price premium |
|---|---|---|
| Same day | Possible in emergency, off-peak day | +25–40% |
| Next day | Realistic, mid-week | +15–25% |
| 2–7 days | Reliable outside July / August | +10–20% |
| 1–2 weeks | Full choice of crew and slot | 0–5% |
What to have ready when you call
- Both postcodes
- Property size (bedrooms + floor level)
- Confirmed completion date (or expected)
- Access notes (parking, lift, long carry)
- Payment card ready — deposits taken instantly
Where last-minute is easier
- Mid-week (Tue / Wed) slots
- Off-peak months (Jan / Feb / Nov)
- Local moves under 30 miles
- 1 or 2-bed properties
Where last-minute is harder
- Fridays and end-of-month
- School-holiday weeks
- Long-distance or overseas moves (need advance planning)
- Moves needing bay suspensions (councils need 5–10 working days)
What you may have to compromise
- Crew: fewer choices, so you may get whoever's available
- Time: often an early or late slot, not prime 8am start
- Packing service: usually can't be arranged inside 48 hours — plan to self-pack
- Wardrobe cartons: may be limited stock at short notice
Contact us
Apex's branch network means most areas can be crewed inside 48 hours. Call your nearest branch directly (numbers on the branch pages) for the fastest response.
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
- Can I book a removal company at 48 hours' notice?
- Yes — Apex regularly handles 48-hour bookings, especially mid-week and outside peak season. Expect a 15–25% premium versus a booking made 3–4 weeks in advance. Same-day bookings are possible in genuine emergencies at a 25–40% premium.
- What's the shortest notice a removal company will accept?
- Same-day bookings are possible in emergencies (chain collapse, sudden completion). Realistic minimum for a smooth move is 48 hours, mid-week, off-peak. Fridays and end-of-month need at least 5–7 days for reliable availability.
- Can I get a packing service at short notice?
- Usually not — packing crews are booked separately and require at least 3–5 days' notice. For last-minute moves, plan to self-pack in advance and use fragile-only packing (£95–£220) on the day for high-risk items.
Planning a move? Get a fixed price today.
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