A full packing service usually includes the labour and materials needed to wrap, box and label the household belongings agreed with your removal company. It saves you having to work through every cupboard yourself, but it is still important to understand what your quotation covers.

Unpacking at your new home, dismantling furniture and disconnecting appliances are separate jobs and should not be assumed to come with full packing. Agreeing the details beforehand helps you plan the rest of your move.

At Gallaghers of Newcastle, we offer full packing, part packing and packing materials for customers who prefer to pack themselves. These options can be discussed as part of our home removals service, whether you are moving within Newcastle and Tyneside or further afield.

What is normally included in a full packing service?

The team prepares the agreed contents of your home for transport, working through items such as kitchenware, books, clothes, bedding and ornaments. Fragile belongings need individual protection, while other items can be grouped into suitable boxes.

Packing materials typically include removal boxes, paper, tape and protective wrapping. The quantity and type depend on what you own. Check that the materials needed for your move are covered in the price, particularly if you have unusually large or delicate possessions.

Boxes are normally labelled so their contents can be identified and taken to the right room. If your new home has a different layout, agree room names in advance. A box labelled “spare room” is less helpful if there are two spare rooms at the destination.

How are fragile or unusual items handled?

Glassware, crockery and ornaments need cushioning that limits movement inside the box. Larger pieces, such as mirrors and framed pictures, may need a different approach from everyday household contents.

Point out anything especially delicate, valuable or difficult to replace when discussing the move. Gallaghers also advertises piano and fine art moving, so raise these items directly rather than treating them as ordinary packing. The team can discuss the handling required and include the agreed arrangements in your quotation.

Tell the company about items stored out of sight, too. A loft full of books or a garage containing hobby equipment can change the amount of packing work considerably.

Does full packing include unpacking and furniture assembly?

Full packing describes preparing belongings for the move. It does not automatically mean someone will unpack every box and put everything away at your new address. Ask whether unpacking is available, what it involves and how it is priced if you would like that help.

The same applies to dismantling and reassembling beds, wardrobes or other furniture. Identify the pieces concerned and agree responsibility before moving day. Appliance disconnection and reconnection also need a separate discussion; do not assume these are part of a packing booking.

Check what happens to the empty boxes and used wrapping afterwards. If collection or removal of packing materials matters to you, ask about the arrangements when booking.

How should you prepare before the packers arrive?

You do not need to box everything up first. Your most useful preparation is deciding what is coming with you and making it clear what should stay behind. Sort out donations and unwanted belongings before the packing appointment so they are not packed by mistake.

Keep a separate bag for things you need throughout the move. Passports, keys, medication, chargers, important paperwork and a change of clothes should remain easy to reach. Tell the team where you have put this bag and any other belongings you are taking yourself.

Clean and dry items that will be packed, make cupboards accessible and leave working space around furniture. Ask for instructions on preparing fridges, freezers and other appliances. Also check the company’s restrictions before setting aside liquids, paint, fuel or other items that may not be accepted.

When does the packing take place?

Packing may be scheduled before moving day or alongside the removal, depending on the volume of belongings and the agreed timetable. A heavily furnished home needs a different plan from a small flat, so avoid assuming it will always take a fixed number of hours.

Ask when the team will arrive and which everyday items can remain available until the end. If packing starts the day before you leave, you may still need bedding, toiletries and basic kitchen items that evening.

If some belongings are going into storage, explain this at the quoting stage. Clearly separating items for storage from those travelling directly to your new home helps prevent confusion.

How much does a full packing service cost?

The price depends on how much needs packing, the materials required and the time involved. Two homes with the same number of bedrooms can have very different contents, which is why a quotation based on your actual move is more useful than a headline price.

Ask for packing to be clearly identified in your removals quotation. Check these points before booking:

• Which rooms and belongings will be packed, including lofts, garages and outbuildings?
• Are the required boxes and protective materials included?
• What preparation is your responsibility?
• Are any additional services or specialist items priced separately?
• When will packing take place, and what happens if the moving date changes?

Would part packing suit your move better?

If you are comfortable packing clothes and books but would prefer help with the kitchen or delicate items, part packing may be a better fit. Agree exactly what you will pack and what the team will handle so nothing is left unfinished.

Gallaghers offers both options, along with materials for home packing. Full packing can be useful when work, family commitments or the size of the move leave you short of time. Part packing lets you focus professional help where you need it most.

Arrange packing and removals with Gallaghers

Moving home in Newcastle, Gateshead, Tyneside or Northumberland? Let Gallaghers know how much packing help you would like when you request your free removals quote. Include your moving addresses, preferred date and any fragile or unusual items so the team can discuss the right service for your move.

To talk through full or part packing, contact Gallaghers of Newcastle or call 0191 266 1864.