How to Reserve Parking Space for Moving in London

Moving house in London is stressful enough without worrying about where your removal van will park. One of the most overlooked but crucial steps in a smooth move is reserving a parking space for your removals van. Without it, you risk fines, delays, and frustrated movers.

This guide explains how to arrange parking for your moving day in London, who is responsible, and the easiest ways to secure a space.

London movers moving packed furniture and belongings into storage

Can I rely on my neighbours for the parking space?

It is the most favourable alternative you have. If there is any chance for you to arrange the question with the neighbours, don’t hesitate to do so. In this case, you will be discharged to pay anything. You will also have no obligation to speak with the council authorities or hire a private company for parking space reservations.

Make sure to figure out whether you can get along with the neighbours in advance. Discuss with them your plans. Provide them with all the details about the entire organisation – concrete date and period of the day when you will need the parking space, etc.

Why Do You Need a Parking Space for Moving in London?

A professional removal van is much larger than a standard car. Parking close to your property is essential because:

Loading takes time – movers need hours, not minutes.
Heavy items like furniture and appliances can’t be carried far.
Blocking the street without permission can lead to complaints or fines.

By arranging proper parking, you save time, avoid penalties, and make your removal team’s job easier.

Who Is Responsible for Booking Parking for a Removals Van?

It’s a common myth that the removal company books parking on your behalf. In reality:

You, the customer, are responsible for arranging parking.
Removal companies, including VP Smart Removals, cannot do this for you because every street and council has different rules.
If you don’t secure parking, the van may have to park far away — costing you more in time and labour.

Options for Securing Parking for a Moving Van

You have two main options when arranging parking for your move in London:

1. Ask Your Neighbours

If you live in a residential street, the simplest option is to ask neighbours to keep a space free. Let them know your moving date and time so they can avoid parking outside your home.

✅ Free option
✅ No paperwork
❌ Not always reliable

2. Apply for a Parking Bay Suspension

If neighbours can’t help, you’ll need to apply for a parking bay suspension from your local council.

This is a temporary restriction that reserves a space for your removal van.
Costs vary by borough (typically £30–£100 per day).
You usually need to apply at least 5–7 working days in advance.

👉 Example: To book a parking suspension in Croydon, you apply via Croydon Council’s website. For Islington, you use Islington Council’s parking services. Always check with your local borough.

How Many Parking Spaces Do You Need for Moving?

Most removal vans need at least two standard parking bays. Remember:

Book a space outside your current property.
Also book a space outside your new property.

This ensures a smooth process at both ends of your move.

FAQs – Parking for Moving in London

1. Do removal companies arrange parking for me?
No. Almost all London removal companies require customers to book parking.

2. How much does a parking suspension cost in London?
Depending on your borough, between £30–£100 per day.

3. How far in advance should I book parking?
Apply at least 7 days before your moving date. Some councils require up to 14 days’ notice.

4. What happens if I don’t book parking?
The van may have to park further away, leading to extra charges, delays, or even parking fines.

Final Thoughts

Booking parking for your moving day in London might feel like a hassle, but it’s a critical step for a stress-free move. Whether you rely on neighbours or apply for a council parking bay suspension, making arrangements in advance will save you money, time, and unnecessary stress.

At VP Smart Removals, we handle everything else about your move – packing, lifting, transporting – but parking is your responsibility. Make sure it’s sorted early so we can get straight to work on moving day.