Parking can be one of the most stressful aspects of moving house in London. With red routes, resident-only zones, and strict enforcement, a poorly planned move can quickly turn expensive and chaotic. At London Man Van, we want your move to go smoothly—so here’s our expert guide to navigating parking restrictions on moving day.
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Ignoring parking logistics can lead to:
Advance planning helps avoid all this—ensuring a quicker, safer, and more affordable move.
Common restrictions include Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs), resident-only bays, red routes, and yellow lines with time limits. Each London borough sets its own rules.
Always check your local council’s parking regulations before moving. Even seemingly free spots may be restricted during certain hours.
Yes, in most cases. If you're parking in a resident-only bay or controlled zone, a suspension or permit is legally required to avoid fines.
You can request a temporary parking bay suspension from your local borough council—especially if you’ll need the space for a few hours or all day.
You’ll need to visit your borough’s website and apply online. Most councils require:
Apply at least 5–10 working days before your move.
Costs vary by borough. On average:
Some councils charge by the number of bays or require multiple days’ booking.
We recommend applying at least 5 to 10 working days in advance. Some boroughs require even more notice, especially during busy periods or in central locations.
London Man Van doesn’t apply for permits on your behalf, but we provide the necessary vehicle details and expert advice to help you apply correctly.
Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) are the customer’s responsibility unless a valid suspension or permit was arranged in advance. That’s why it’s vital to plan ahead.
Yes, central areas like Westminster, Camden, and the City of London have strict enforcement zones. Red routes often prohibit any stopping—even for removals—without an official suspension.
Always double-check red route and loading restrictions in advance.
Only if you’ve secured a council-issued suspension or permit. Without one, your vehicle may be ticketed or towed. Yellow lines typically have time-based restrictions that must be respected.
Do I always need a parking permit?
No, but most areas in London do have parking restrictions. If your street has free parking without time limits, a permit may not be needed.
Can you apply for the permit for me?
We can’t submit the application, but we’ll provide the exact van dimensions and guide you on how to do it quickly and correctly.
What if I receive a parking fine?
Unless a valid suspension was arranged in advance, the fine is your responsibility. Always keep your permit documents visible on the dashboard.
Can you move me without a permit?
Yes, but there’s a risk of PCNs and higher costs due to extra walking time and restricted access. We recommend securing a permit whenever possible.
Moving in London comes with unique parking challenges, but with the right planning, you can avoid fines, delays, and stress. Follow this guide, apply for necessary suspensions, and partner with a trusted moving team like London Man Van to keep your move on track.
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Let’s make your London move simple and stress-free. Get your quote today or contact us for expert moving advice!
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