Tips for Moving House in Manchester: A Local’s Guide

May 15, 2025

Moving house can be a stressful experience – but doing it in a busy city like Manchester comes with its own unique set of challenges. From navigating traffic to choosing the right storage options, a little local know-how can go a long way. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating across town, these top tips will help you plan a smooth and stress-free move in Manchester.


Manchester Night Time Skyline

Plan Around Manchester’s Busy Times

Manchester is a vibrant, growing city – and that means traffic. Avoid moving during peak hours (typically 7:30–9:30am and 4–6pm) to prevent your removals van getting stuck on roads like Princess Parkway, the Mancunian Way, or the M60 ring road.

If possible, choose a midweek to move house in Manchester. Weekends tend to be busier, especially in residential areas close to universities or the city centre.


Check for Parking and Access Issues

In some Manchester areas – like the Northern Quarter, Ancoats, or Didsbury – parking can be tricky. Check whether you need a parking permit for your removals van, and make sure there’s space to load and unload. In apartment blocks or managed buildings, ask your property manager if there are service lifts or designated moving-in slots.


Use Local Storage to Bridge the Gap

If your moving dates don’t line up perfectly, or you need to declutter before putting your home on the market, short-term storage can be a lifesaver. At Cuboid Self Storage Manchester, we offer secure, affordable container and internal storage options right here in the city – ideal for keeping your belongings safe while you transition between homes.

With 24/7 access and flexible terms, we’re a convenient choice whether you’re moving within Manchester or relocating from further afield.


Label for Your New Manchester Home, Not the Old One

It’s tempting to pack and label boxes based on your current setup – but thinking ahead can save time. Label each box by room in your new house (e.g. “Kitchen – Deansgate Flat”), and number them so you can check everything has arrived safely. You can even add a QR code with an inventory list if you’re feeling extra organised.


Hire a Local Removals Team Who Knows Manchester

Using a local removals company means you’ll benefit from drivers who know how to avoid roadworks, time the move properly, and handle parking in trickier parts of the city. Many Manchester-based movers also offer packing services, saving you time and stress in the build-up to moving day.


Think Ahead for Manchester Weather

We all know Manchester has a reputation for rain – so prepare for a soggy moving day, just in case. Use plastic wrap or sealed containers for anything that might be water-sensitive. Old towels, dust sheets, and a few large umbrellas can go a long way to keeping your furniture and boxes dry.


Don’t Forget to Update Your Address

Once you’re settled, remember to update your address with Manchester City Council, local utilities, your GP surgery, and – if you drive – your V5C and driving licence. This helps avoid delays with council tax, voting, and post.


Make Your Manchester Move Easier with Cuboid Self Storage

At Cuboid Self Storage Manchester, we’re proud to support local movers with flexible storage solutions that fit your schedule and budget. Whether you need a place to store your belongings for a few weeks or a few months, our site is clean, secure, and accessible – and our friendly team is always happy to help.


Located in Between the A666, M61 and M60 on Europa Business Park, we’re ideally positioned for moves in and around Greater Manchester.


Ready to make your move a little less stressful? Contact us today – we’ll help you find the perfect storage space.

Easter weekend spring cleaning
By Emma Gibson April 14, 2025
Make the most of your Easter weekend with a spring clean! Declutter your home and store your seasonal or spare items safely with Cuboid Self Storage, friendly, flexible, and secure.
Self storage uk
By Emma Gibson February 28, 2025
Choosing the right self-storage facility is crucial to ensure your belongings are safe, accessible, and well-maintained.
November 11, 2024
Need a secure space for your bike and gear? Cuboid Self Storage offers safe, accessible storage for cycling equipment, keeping your kit protected and ready to use.
October 29, 2024
Cuboid Self Storage offers secure, accessible storage for your festival items after the event. Keep your gear safe and ready for next year with our reliable storage solutions.
October 11, 2024
Unsure whether traditional or container storage is right for you? This guide compares both options, helping you choose the best storage solution for your needs.