When it comes to moving, it’s not just about vans and boxes—it’s about trust. And that’s exactly why so many people turn to family-run removal companies: they bring a sense of care, accountability, and consistency that’s often missing in larger, impersonal operations.
In the UK, the moving industry is filled with unsung heroes—businesses that have been passed down through generations, built on personal values, and strengthened by community relationships. Some of these businesses have gone a step further: they’ve earned recognition on local, regional, or even national stages for their exceptional service and reliability.
Here are ten standout award-winning family businesses in the UK moving sector that have made a name for themselves by combining tradition with professionalism.
1. Burke Bros Moving Group – Wolverhampton
Award: Family Business of the Year (2024) – Midlands Family Business Awards
Started in 1982 with a single van and a lot of determination, Burke Bros has grown into one of the UK’s most trusted moving and international relocation companies. The business remains family-run, and its success lies in its commitment to customer care, staff training, and innovation.
Their win in 2024 highlighted their strong leadership transition to the next generation, resilience in a changing market, and community involvement—all trademarks of an award-worthy family business.
Why they stand out: Smooth succession planning, global services with local values.
2. Allen Family Removals – West Midlands
Award: Recognized for Excellence in Local Services
This company has built a loyal customer base by sticking to one core principle: treat every move like it’s your own. They specialize in residential and commercial removals, and what makes them special is their hands-on approach—clients often interact with the same family members from the initial quote to moving day.
They’ve been featured in local business awards for maintaining a high rating of customer satisfaction, especially in the competitive Midlands region.
Why they stand out: Personal service, transparent pricing, and genuine family involvement.
3. Intercity Removals – Cardiff & London
Award: Best Moving Experience (2023) – Customer Excellence Awards
Though they serve the whole of the UK and parts of Europe, Intercity Removals retains its warm, family-run atmosphere. Their modern fleet, tech-savvy approach, and helpful staff have made them favourites for both local and international moves.
Their award celebrates their stress-free, fully managed moving experience—something families and professionals alike appreciate.
Why they stand out: Seamless blend of technology and traditional service.
4. Bournes Moves – South East England
Award: British Association of Removers (BAR) Excellence Award
With roots going back to the 1870s, Bournes is a multi-generational company that still maintains a personal touch. The business has earned awards for its high-quality removals, especially for international and corporate relocation services.
They’re a prime example of how a traditional family business can adapt to the digital age without compromising on quality.
Why they stand out: Over 150 years of service, strong training culture, global capabilities.
5. Pickfords – National
Award: Best International Removal Company – Multiple Years
While Pickfords has become a large operation over time, its roots are deeply tied to family-run logistics dating back over 400 years. The company has won multiple industry awards, especially for its innovation in business relocation and storage solutions.
Its ability to grow while retaining key values like responsibility, accountability, and excellence is what keeps it award-worthy year after year.
Why they stand out: Longevity, international reach, and consistent excellence.
6. All Moves UK Ltd – Nottingham
Award: Regional Removals Business of the Year
A true family-run business that’s growing fast, All Moves UK Ltd has been recognized for offering exceptional service across the East Midlands and beyond. Their clients include homeowners, students, and businesses alike.
They stand out for their attention to detail and friendly, trustworthy service, which has led to high referral rates and positive reviews.
Why they stand out: Affordability + professionalism, with a local charm.
7. White & Company – Nationwide
Award: Long-Distance Moving Service of the Year
White & Company has been a staple in the UK removals scene for over a century, with 19 branches and over 250 vehicles. While no longer small, their operations are still run with family values at the heart of every move.
Their reputation for long-distance and overseas removals has won them national awards and customer trust across generations.
Why they stand out: Scale with soul; strong infrastructure + human touch.
Also read: 10 Award-winning family businesses in the UK
8. Bishop’s Move – UK & Europe
Award: Sustainability & Heritage Excellence
Founded in 1854, Bishop’s Move is one of the UK’s oldest family-run moving companies. Despite their age, they’re forward-thinking and eco-conscious, winning awards for their environmental initiatives and heritage branding.
They’re proof that legacy businesses can evolve without losing their identity.
Why they stand out: Environmental leadership, rich legacy, royal connections.
9. J.R. Rix & Sons – Hull
Award: Transport & Logistics – Family Business of the Year
Though Rix & Sons operate in broader logistics, their removals arm is part of what makes them a celebrated name in the North of England. Their 2022 win highlighted multi-sector excellence led by a strong, unified family vision.
They embody the kind of quiet success that many family businesses strive for.
Why they stand out: Operational excellence across industries, humble leadership.
10. The Moving Home Company – London
Award: Top Rated Removals Business – Trustpilot Excellence Recognition
This London-based company combines 40+ years of experience with a deeply personal service model. Often recommended for delicate or complex moves, their family-led team is known for showing up on time, treating possessions with care, and staying cool under pressure.
They’ve earned their place through sheer consistency and strong word-of-mouth.
Why they stand out: Clean reputation, high reviews, word-of-mouth loyalty.
Final Thoughts
What sets these businesses apart isn’t just moving boxes—it’s moving lives with care, trust, and accountability. Awards in the removals industry don’t come easy. They’re earned through:
- Long-term customer satisfaction
- Transparent pricing and honest communication
- A commitment to staff training and safety
- The heart of a family working together toward a common goal
If you’re looking for inspiration—or a reliable mover—you can’t go wrong with these ten.
