Top 10 Best Relocation Companies in Forest of Dean

Moving to the Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean has become an increasingly popular place to live. Its blend of ancient woodland, affordable housing compared with nearby Cheltenham and Bristol, close-knit communities and excellent access to the outdoors attracts families, retirees and remote workers alike. Many people relocate from cities in search of a slower pace of life, while others move within the district or leave for new opportunities elsewhere.

Whatever your reason for moving, choosing a reliable removal company can make the process far less stressful. Rural properties, narrow lanes and steep driveways can present logistical challenges, so experience matters. Here are ten relocation companies worth considering.

What to Look for in a Removal Company

Look for membership of trade bodies such as the British Association of Removers, which requires members to meet professional standards and offers dispute resolution. Ensure the company provides comprehensive insurance, a detailed written quotation, a pre-move survey and clear terms. Ask about packing services, storage facilities and their experience with rural access.

The Top 10 Relocation Companies

1. Pickfords

Pickfords is one of the oldest and best-known removal companies in Britain, with centuries of history. It offers domestic, international and business moves, along with packing, storage and specialist handling for antiques and fine art. Its nationwide network and experience make it a dependable choice for long-distance moves into or out of the Forest.

2. Bishop's Move

Bishop's Move is a family-owned company with a strong reputation for quality. It handles everything from local moves to international relocations and is admired for its careful packing, well-trained crews and responsive customer service.

3. Britannia Movers International

Britannia is a network of independent removal companies operating under a shared brand. Members combine local expertise with national standards, offering domestic and international moves, storage and specialist services. Customers benefit from the personal touch of a local firm backed by a trusted network.

4. Anglo Pacific

Anglo Pacific specialises in international removals and shipping personal effects overseas. For Forest of Dean residents emigrating to Australia, New Zealand, Canada or elsewhere, its expertise in overseas shipping, customs and destination services is invaluable.

5. Crown Relocations

Crown Relocations focuses on international and corporate moves, supporting employees transferring between countries. Its services extend beyond logistics to include destination support, school searches and settling-in assistance.

6. Santa Fe Relocation

Santa Fe Relocation offers global mobility services for businesses and individuals. It manages complex international moves, immigration support and orientation services, making it ideal for executives and families relocating for work.

7. Doree Bonner International

Doree Bonner is a family-run removal company offering domestic and international moves. It is known for personal service, competitive pricing and experience in shipping household goods to destinations worldwide.

8. White and Company

White and Company is a long-established removal firm offering residential, commercial and international relocations. Its secure storage facilities and professional packing services are particularly helpful for those facing gaps between selling and buying properties.

9. Clockwork Removals

Clockwork Removals operates a network of franchised branches across the UK, providing domestic and international moves with consistent service standards. Its range of packing, storage and specialist services suits a wide variety of customers.

10. Gerson Relocation

Gerson Relocation is a respected international removal company with experience in moves to and from Europe and beyond. Its attention to detail and transparent pricing make it a solid option for overseas moves.

Local Considerations When Moving in the Forest

Many Forest of Dean properties are located down narrow lanes, along unmade tracks or on steep slopes. Removal companies may need to use smaller vehicles or shuttle loads from a larger lorry, which can affect cost and timing. A pre-move survey, whether in person or by video, allows the company to plan for these challenges. Free-roaming sheep, seasonal events and occasional road closures in the woodland can also influence scheduling.

Trends in the Removals Industry

Video surveys have become standard, allowing customers to receive accurate quotes without an in-person visit. Many firms now offer eco-friendly packing materials and reusable crates to reduce waste. Flexible storage solutions, including containerised storage that can be delivered to your door, have grown in popularity as buyers and sellers navigate complex property chains.

Tips for a Smooth Move

Book your removal company early, especially for moves at the end of the month or during summer, when demand peaks. Declutter before the survey to reduce volume and cost. Label boxes clearly by room, keep essential items with you and confirm access arrangements at both properties. Finally, compare at least three quotes, looking at the level of service included rather than price alone.

Final Thoughts

Relocating to or from the Forest of Dean is a major life event. Established names like Pickfords and Bishop's Move offer reassurance for domestic moves, while specialists such as Anglo Pacific and Crown Relocations excel with international relocations. With careful planning and the right partner, your move can be smooth, safe and even enjoyable.