Data from Reallymoving, the comparison site for home movers, reveals that 52,653 people moved last week as homebuyers raced to complete before lower Stamp Duty thresholds are restored today, on 1^st April.

Week 13 is always a popular week of the year to move, but this year, activity was 92% higher than the average for Q1. This is compared with 27,458 moving in an average week in the first quarter of the year and 53% higher than the 2024 spike. 

Services under pressure

Rob Houghton, founder and CEO of Reallymoving, said: “Removals firms across the country have been working overtime to keep up with demand, and some have had to get creative to ensure their clients can meet the deadline. One removals firm we work with, Home Moovers in Ruislip, have been offering to move people temporarily into their own storage site and then redelivering their belongings next week. So far, ten customers have taken up this option.

“Sure Removals in Romford, Essex, said their phones haven’t stopped ringing, including from other removals companies calling to ask if they have any availability to help move their customers. Most removals firms we’ve spoken to are predicting April will be the slowest month of the year, judging by current bookings.

“Many people will have budgeted for the extra cost Stamp Duty just in case, but others simply don’t have the money. If they don’t complete on time, and they can’t agree a reduced price, we will see transactions collapsing later this week – not just theirs, but potentially everyone in the chain. Conveyancing firms are definitely feeling the pressure.”