The short answer: parking is the biggest London moving problem. Check the street rules at both addresses and, if needed, apply to the council for a parking suspension 10 to 14 days ahead. Book lifts and move-in times with your building. Central London moves may cross the Congestion Charge zone, which is £18 a day from January 2026. Then tell your council, the DVLA and your suppliers about the move.
Parking for the moving van
Turning up with a van and no parking plan is like driving into the Congestion Charge zone and forgetting to pay: it ends in a fine. Every minute the van is parked further away also adds carrying time. Before moving day, check both streets:
- Resident bays and single yellow lines: rules differ by council. Some let removal vans load for free.
- Red routes: run by TfL. No stopping except in marked loading bays at the times shown.
- Housing estates: usually need a separate permit from the estate or housing office.
- Private roads and new-build developments: ask the managing agent about loading bays.
Check the van’s livery. In Islington, sign-written removal vans can load for free in resident bays or on single yellow lines for as long as loading continues. Unmarked vans can only park until 11am, then 40 minutes at a time. Other councils have their own rules.
How to get a parking suspension
A parking suspension reserves the bays outside your home for moving day. You apply to the council that runs the street.
| Council | Notice needed | Cost (first day, per space) |
|---|---|---|
| Westminster (Marylebone, Mayfair, Soho) | 10 working days | £51 to £55, depending on zone |
| Islington | 14 days | £164.80 for residents, for as many spaces as needed |
Sources: Westminster City Council, Islington Council. Checked October 2026. Fees change, so confirm with your council.
A suspension isn’t always needed. In Islington, for example, most domestic moves can park free near your home. Ask us when you get your quote and we’ll tell you what your street needs.
Lifts and buildings
- Book the lift. Many blocks need a booking and a set move-in time.
- Ask about lift protection. Some buildings want padded walls. We bring blankets.
- Measure the lift. Sofas and wardrobes often go by the stairs instead.
- Check the concierge or porter’s hours, and how fobs and keys are handed over.
- Mansion blocks and conversions often have no lift or a very small one. Tell us the floor, so we send two movers.
Congestion Charge and ULEZ
Moves in central London may cross the Congestion Charge zone. The daily charge is £18 from 2 January 2026. Most modern vans meet the ULEZ standard and don’t pay the ULEZ charge.
Source: CiTTi Magazine. Check current charges on the TfL website.
Who to tell when you move
Must do
- Council tax, at both addresses
- DVLA, for your driving licence. It’s free and a legal requirement.
- Electoral register
- Your landlord or letting agent
Should do
- Bank, cards and HMRC
- Employer and GP
- Energy, water and broadband
- TV Licence and insurers
- Royal Mail redirection
Getting rid of furniture
Most London councils run a paid bulky waste collection for sofas, mattresses and white goods. Book it before moving day, because slots fill up. Furniture in good condition can go to a charity shop collection or a local selling group.
Not sure what your street needs?
Send both addresses and we’ll tell you about parking and access with your quote.