About Us
About us
For secure, professional, and stress-free international removals.
Excellent
583 Reviews
About us
About us
For secure, professional, and stress-free international removals.
Excellent
583 Reviews
Excellent
583 Reviews on
Genuine reviews from legitimate customers
See what our satisfied clients have to say about their experiences with Matthew James
Matthew De-Machen, Managing Director of Matthew James Global Relocations (MJGR), is not your average removals man. In fact he’s not your average managing director either.
/ 5
Star Rating
+
Network Service
+
Destination Countries
From a very young age he has been fascinated by vehicles and entered the moving industry as a teenager to provide an outlet for his interest. As his company grew his passion never waned. On the contrary, his obsession with beautiful machinery developed into a similarly all-embracing crusade for perfection in everything he and his company does. It is this dedication to excellence that has made his company successful and his vehicle fleet the talk of the moving industry both in the UK and throughout Europe.
The detailing on Matthew’s vehicles bears testimony to his compulsion for perfection and provides a window into the care with which he runs his whole business. ‘All right’ is not good enough: it’s either perfect, or it’s no good at all. This principle runs through Matthew’s business like a watermark. Inspiration flows down from the top and everyone who works at the company understands. Service quality is everything. Second best is unacceptable.
Matthew’s childhood dream has come true. Not only can he indulge his love of trucks, he has used this passion to build a successful business and his drive for perfection to provide an exceptional European and UK relocations service for some of the world’s most demanding corporations.
It’s serendipity: a coming together of skill, passion and belief that has built a unique company of people who know what excellence looks like, and are determined to let it shine through everything they do.
Matthew’s advice on
choosing your mover
Moving home can be busy and stressful. Amongst all the planning for buying, selling, and renting, it’s easy to overlook the importance of choosing the right removals company. Often, people leave it to the last minute, pick the only available or cheapest company, and things go wrong. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Drawing from my 30 years of experience, here’s some wisdom to help you make the right choices and avoid any moving day blues.
1
Plan early! It is never too early to start planning your move and choosing your mover. It’s worth noting that it is almost impossible to find a removals company with availability on Friday in peak season, so the earlier you start getting things booked the better. This will take the majority of stress out of the process and allow you all the time you need to make the right choices.
2
Look for companies that come with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 accreditations. This will demonstrate that the business has been assessed and accredited with internationally recognized quality standards and is operating at the highest level of professionalism. It will also show a company’s commitment to customer care by showing a consideration for response times and tight processes to which it has committed.
3
Don’t automatically look for the lowest quote. All industry leaders have similar running costs. If a quote seems too good to be true that’s because it probably is. If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait until you hire an amateur.
4
The removals industry can be a financially precarious one. Therefore, make sure to check that the business you are using is financially stable. Websites like https://www.gov.uk/ will give you a good indication of this. The last thing that you want is for your goods to be in international transit, where FCL relocations typically average 8-12 weeks to complete, and for the company managing your move to go into administration, leaving you to have to pay out again.
5
If possible, always have a surveyor visit your home. This will allow them to assess not only all of your goods but various other contributing factors that go into a move, such as allocating the appropriate vehicle, the correct size team, the correct materials and more. Should you need to complete an online quotation make sure to include absolutely everything you want to be moved. Any vague answers are red flags and can carry last minute costs on the day of your move.
6
Check out a company’s reviews online. There are multiple trustworthy review sites such as trustpilot.com. Be wary of companies with large numbers of 5* reviews lacking detail as in this modern age many companies will pay to have bots/AI flood their review sections with good ratings so that at a glance, they look better than they really are. Be thorough when investigating this.
7
Never go for a company willing to offer or negotiate a special cash deal. Any professional removal company will not operate in this manner and you must always obtain a contract and a receipt, otherwise, should the worst happen, you will have no means of being reimbursed or even proving the job took place.
8
When choosing a removals company always make sure to check that they have a registered company address on their website. This is a key sign of their level of professionalism and when inviting someone to your home you can never be too cautious.
9
Always investigate a removal company’s website. Specifically check for images of their work. Any removals company will have a proud portfolio showing off their wrapping and packing skills, professional staff, depot, fleet, and more. If you find that a company’s website is flooded with stock images then be cautious. It is worth asking yourself why this may be. It is possible the company is new to the industry or has a poor reputation.
10
Many removal companies will only use 2 packing boxes, a small and a medium. Be sure to enquire about which packing materials a company stocks. Any professional moving company, such as MJR, will have a vast range of different materials and boxes. Matthew James, for example, boasts over 16 different bespoke sizes, including custom made crates for exceptionally large or expensive items.
Meet the team
Matthew De-Machen
Managing Director
Matthew joined the removals industry as a pre-teen in 1991, going on to become the founder of Matthew James in 1996. Matthew has been committed to the industry ever since. Matthew is well known for his attention to detail, doing everything with his trademark OCD approach. Everything must be done to perfection and he simply won’t have it any other way.
Rachel Pepper
Operations Director
Rachel graduated and was a highly respected Ofsted inspector. Rachel is Matthew's sister and joined the business during lockdown and soon became a director. Rachel has been a breath of fresh air for Matthew and neither have ever looked back.
Anne De-Machen
Company Secretary
Mother to Matthew, even approaching the age of 80 Ann shows no signs of slowing down. Ann is out on the frontline daily ensuring that all work carried out is to the highest standard and making our customers feel well valued and cared for.
Daniel Roberts
Management Assistant
Our newest member of the team, Dan joined in 2024 coming from a background in removals management. Dan assists both Matt and Rachel in ensuring the well-oiled machine of Matthew James keeps running smoothly.
Chris Austin
Move Manager
Joining the company in 2018, Chris brought a wealth of knowledge and experience within international shipping along with him. Chris has been able to take Matthew James to new heights by allowing us to be at the pinnacle of the international removals industry.
Max Oughera
Move Manager
Coming aboard to the Matthew James family in 2018 Max has a unique expertise in the shipping of goods to South Asia. Fluent in Punjabi, Max has been able to project MJR to a whole new client base as well as providing an excellent customer experience.
Sandie Harris
Move Manager
Leaving a successful career in recruitment, Sandie joined our team in 2018 and quickly demonstrated her excellent people skills. She is well known for going the extra mile, checking in at each stage of the move even after completion.
Raj Khaira
Move Manager
Coming to Matthew James from a sales background in 2019, Raj is our UK and European shared load expert. This allows our clients’ goods to be delivered in way that benefits our customers directly, getting their goods to them with a greater efficiency and for a lower cost.
Joe Manning
Surveyor
Joe joined our company in 2013. Initially living in Spain, Joe joined as a road train driver, allowing him to learn Europe like the back of his hand. After moving back to the UK he became our trusted surveyor. Any question and Joe will have the right answer.
Marcus Marchant
Surveyor
After running his own removals company Marcus made the wise decision to join forces with Matthew James back in 2019. There is nothing in the removals industry that Marcus doesn’t know and is able to apply that knowledge well, leaving our customers feeling they are in the hands of an expert.
Jill Finch
Accounts Assistant
Jill joined the company in 2011. Jill initially joined as a receptionist, however due to her intellect and gift with numbers she soon worked her way up to join our Accounts department, managing all day-to-day invoicing. She is well known for her fantastic rapport with customers.
Kim Atkinson
Accounts Administrator
Joining the team in 2021, Kim settled in well immediately and became a vital asset to the company. Demonstrating an unmatched attention to detail Kim allows our suppliers to be kept updated and feel their transactions are in safe hands.
Grace Parker Fay
Customs Coordinator
Joining us in 2022 a young Grace immediately became an irreplaceable part of the team. She quickly became every member of staff’s go to for anything customs related. Our clientele can always feel safe in Grace’s hands and Matthew has said he’d be proud if Grace was his daughter.
Bessie Heskins
UK Operations Planner
Joining Matthew James in 2021, Bessie is like a daughter to Matthew. She oversees all our UK operations. From scheduling to allocation to route planning there is nothing that Bessie cannot do and all to the highest standard in the industry.
Paul Speer
European Manager
Initially joining the company in 2009, Paul’s skillset allowed him to progress quickly, climbing the ranks through various roles before finally settling in our European Operations team. He plans and routes all our jobs throughout Europe.
Tony Mitchell
Training Manager
Joining the company in 2012, Tony initially started as a 7.5 tonne driver but quickly climbed the ladder by gaining his Category C and C+E licenses. He progressed even further to become the company’s training manager. Additionally, he carries out all our driver assessments and LGV training with a superb pass rate.
Greg Spencer
Transport Manager
Joining in 2024, Greg manages the day-to-day running and maintenance of our fleet. Greg ensures that all our vehicles not only look amazing, but run without issue, avoiding any delays in getting a customer their goods and allowing our clients to feel they are in safe hands.
Steve Thompson
Warehouse Manager
Steve began work at MJR in 2012. Coming from a background in logistics Steve applied his skillset immediately. He ensures that all goods coming in and out of our UK warehouses are being expertly managed, tracked and stored in a professional and safe manner.
Andrew Durack
Warehouse Assistant
Andrew joined in 2022, bringing years of experience in warehouse management with him. Andrews helps oversee the allocation and transport of our clients’ goods throughout our depot and making sure they are ready to go when needed.
Evie
Officer Therapy Dog
Evie is a friendly face all staff love to see around the office. If ever someone is having a stressful day they can make use of Evie’s calming presence. Evie loves to be walked around the lake at lunch times and having her belly rubbed.
Anne De-Machen
Company Secretary
Mother to Matthew, even approaching the age of 80 Ann shows no signs of slowing down. Ann is out on the frontline daily ensuring that all work carried out is to the highest standard and making our customers feel well valued and cared for.
Daniel Roberts
Management Assistant
Our newest member of the team, Dan joined in 2024 coming from a background in removals management. Dan assists both Matt and Rachel in ensuring the well-oiled machine of Matthew James keeps running smoothly.
Chris Austin
Move Manager
Joining the company in 2018, Chris brought a wealth of knowledge and experience within international shipping along with him. Chris has been able to take Matthew James to new heights by allowing us to be at the pinnacle of the international removals industry.
Max Oughera
Move Manager
Coming aboard to the Matthew James family in 2018 Max has a unique expertise in the shipping of goods to South Asia. Fluent in Punjabi, Max has been able to project MJR to a whole new client base as well as providing an excellent customer experience.
Sandie Harris
Move Manager
Leaving a successful career in recruitment, Sandie joined our team in 2018 and quickly demonstrated her excellent people skills. She is well known for going the extra mile, checking in at each stage of the move even after completion.
Raj Khaira
Move Manager
Coming to Matthew James from a sales background in 2019, Raj is our UK and European shared load expert. This allows our clients’ goods to be delivered in way that benefits our customers directly, getting their goods to them with a greater efficiency and for a lower cost.
Joe Manning
Surveyor
Joe joined our company in 2013. Initially living in Spain, Joe joined as a road train driver, allowing him to learn Europe like the back of his hand. After moving back to the UK he became our trusted surveyor. Any question and Joe will have the right answer.
Marcus Marchant
Surveyor
After running his own removals company Marcus made the wise decision to join forces with Matthew James back in 2019. There is nothing in the removals industry that Marcus doesn’t know and is able to apply that knowledge well, leaving our customers feeling they are in the hands of an expert.
Jill Finch
Accounts Assistant
Jill joined the company in 2011. Jill initially joined as a receptionist, however due to her intellect and gift with numbers she soon worked her way up to join our Accounts department, managing all day-to-day invoicing. She is well known for her fantastic rapport with customers.
Kim Atkinson
Accounts Administrator
Joining the team in 2021, Kim settled in well immediately and became a vital asset to the company. Demonstrating an unmatched attention to detail Kim allows our suppliers to be kept updated and feel their transactions are in safe hands.
Grace Parker Fay
Customs Coordinator
Joining us in 2022 a young Grace immediately became an irreplaceable part of the team. She quickly became every member of staff’s go to for anything customs related. Our clientele can always feel safe in Grace’s hands and Matthew has said he’d be proud if Grace was his daughter.
Bessie Heskins
UK Operations Planner
Joining Matthew James in 2021, Bessie is like a daughter to Matthew. She oversees all our UK operations. From scheduling to allocation to route planning there is nothing that Bessie cannot do and all to the highest standard in the industry.
Paul Speer
European Manager
Initially joining the company in 2009, Paul’s skillset allowed him to progress quickly, climbing the ranks through various roles before finally settling in our European Operations team. He plans and routes all our jobs throughout Europe.
Tony Mitchell
Training Manager
Joining the company in 2012, Tony initially started as a 7.5 tonne driver but quickly climbed the ladder by gaining his Category C and C+E licenses. He progressed even further to become the company’s training manager. Additionally, he carries out all our driver assessments and LGV training with a superb pass rate.
Greg Spencer
Transport Manager
Joining in 2024, Greg manages the day-to-day running and maintenance of our fleet. Greg ensures that all our vehicles not only look amazing, but run without issue, avoiding any delays in getting a customer their goods and allowing our clients to feel they are in safe hands.
Steve Thompson
Warehouse Manager
Steve began work at MJR in 2012. Coming from a background in logistics Steve applied his skillset immediately. He ensures that all goods coming in and out of our UK warehouses are being expertly managed, tracked and stored in a professional and safe manner.
Andrew Durack
Warehouse Assistant
Andrew joined in 2022, bringing years of experience in warehouse management with him. Andrews helps oversee the allocation and transport of our clients’ goods throughout our depot and making sure they are ready to go when needed.
Evie
Officer Therapy Dog
Evie is a friendly face all staff love to see around the office. If ever someone is having a stressful day they can make use of Evie’s calming presence. Evie loves to be walked around the lake at lunch times and having her belly rubbed.
Achievement & awards
Our commitment to excellence has led us to achieve significant milestones along our journey. Here are some of our notable achievements
2024
THE KENT’S MEGA GROWTH 50 AWARDS
Shortlisted from a pool of 64,000 companies, Matthew James achieves an astounding 34th place in the Mega Growth 50 Awards. Now in its 20th year, the mega growth awards annual list of its fastest-growing businesses is put together based on the average turnover growth of privately owned businesses that have a minimum turnover of £1 million. We achieved this by boasting an incredible 51% financial growth
2024
THE KENT’S MEGA GROWTH 50 AWARDS
Shortlisted from a pool of 64,000 companies, Matthew James achieves an astounding 34th place in the Mega Growth 50 Awards. Now in its 20th year, the mega growth awards annual list of its fastest-growing businesses is put together based on the average turnover growth of privately owned businesses that have a minimum turnover of £1 million. We achieved this by boasting an incredible 51% financial growth
2023
HMRC APPROVED CUSTOMS BONDED FACILITY
In 2023 Matthew James became a fully HMRC Approved Customs Bonded facility. A customs bonded warehouse is a place where your goods can be stored until they are ready to be delivered to your new address, without paying Customs duties or taxes. This can be a great benefit for customers moving from one country to another where your possessions may need to transit the UK during the process
2022
ISO 45001 CERTIFICATION
Awarded in recognition of our commitment to industry leading standards of occupational health and safety management. ISO 45001 certification is a globally recognised standard that helps organisations to manage their Health and Safety controls
2022
ISO 45001 CERTIFICATION
Awarded in recognition of our commitment to industry leading standards of occupational health and safety management. ISO 45001 certification is a globally recognised standard that helps organisations to manage their Health and Safety controls
2021
THE FIRST 5 STAR RATED SAFETY CAB FOR THE REMOVALS INDUSTRY IN LONDON (POSSIBLY EVEN THE UK!)
Another incredible industry first for Matthew James our Mercedes Econic equipped with its state of the art Direct Vision cab. This allowed our lorry to be the first removals vehicle in London to have achieved a rating of 5 stars by the safety requirement standards set by TFL. This vehicle allows for next to no blind spots meaning all pedestrians, cyclists and other road users are fully visible at all times.
2019
THE FIRST HYBRID LARGE GOODS VEHICLE IN THE REMOVALS INDUSTRY
Matthew James are proud to say that they were the first company in the removals industry to add an environmentally friendly hybrid LGV vehicle to their already impressive fleet
2019
THE FIRST HYBRID LARGE GOODS VEHICLE IN THE REMOVALS INDUSTRY
Matthew James are proud to say that they were the first company in the removals industry to add an environmentally friendly hybrid LGV vehicle to their already impressive fleet
2019
ISO 14001 CERTIFICATION
Awarded in recognition of our commitment to upholding excellent environmental standards. ISO 14001 is an internationally agreed and recognised standard for Environmental Management Systems. An EMS supports organisations in identifying, managing, monitoring and controlling environmental processes
2019
INDEPENDENT FURNITURE OMBUDSMAN SERVICE
Due to our confidence in giving an excellent service and our unmatched commitment to excellent customer service Matthew James becomes an independent member of The Furniture Ombudsman. This step gives our customers the peace of mind of knowing that no matter what happens they are safe and supported
2019
INDEPENDENT FURNITURE OMBUDSMAN SERVICE
Due to our confidence in giving an excellent service and our unmatched commitment to excellent customer service Matthew James becomes an independent member of The Furniture Ombudsman. This step gives our customers the peace of mind of knowing that no matter what happens they are safe and supported
2018
MEGA GROWTH 50
We were awarded 47th place in the top 50 fastest growing businesses in Kent with an amazing 52% increase in turnover. Mega Growth 50 is an annual ranking of Kent's fastest-growing businesses. The performance table is put together based on the average turnover growth of privately owned businesses that have a minimum turnover of £1 million, as stipulated in their full accounts registered at Companies House across the last four years.
2017
TRUCK SHOW – BRANDS HATCH
Best Rigid Truck 1st Place
2017
TRUCK SHOW – BRANDS HATCH
Best Rigid Truck 1st Place
2016
TRUCK SHOW - SNETTERTON
Best Rigid Truck 1st Place
Best Semi Customised Truck 2nd Place
Best Semi Customised Truck 2nd Place
TRUCK SHOW – BRANDS HATCH
Best Special Type Truck 2nd Place
2016
FORS GOLD FLEET OPPERATOR RECOGNITION SCHEME
Being awarded FORS Gold status signifies that we have demonstrated excellent practices in fleet operations and management across the board, including meeting certain criteria for: General fleet operations – implementing systems to ensure we run a high-performing business.
2016
FORS GOLD FLEET OPPERATOR RECOGNITION SCHEME
Being awarded FORS Gold status signifies that we have demonstrated excellent practices in fleet operations and management across the board, including meeting certain criteria for: General fleet operations – implementing systems to ensure we run a high-performing business.
2015
THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MOVERS
Matthew James takes it’s place among the global industry leaders by acquiring full membership to The International Association of Movers
2014
THE MOVERS & STORERS SHOW – BEST REMOVAL VEHICLE
Our vehicle wins first place for “Best Removals Vehicle” at the Movers and Storers Show, beating out fierce competition from a vast number of applicants
2014
THE MOVERS & STORERS SHOW – BEST REMOVAL VEHICLE
Our vehicle wins first place for “Best Removals Vehicle” at the Movers and Storers Show, beating out fierce competition from a vast number of applicants
2014
ISO 9001 CERTIFICATION
Awarded to us in recognition of our excellent standards of quality management. ISO 9001 is a globally recognized standard for quality management. It helps organizations of all sizes and sectors to improve their performance, meet customer expectations and demonstrate their commitment to quality
2014
FORS SILVER FLEET OPPERATOR RECOGNITION SCHEME
Matthew James adds another official accreditation to its large list. The FORS Silver accreditation confirms that you employ good practice and comply with the requirements laid out by the FORS Standard. By achieving FORS Silver accreditation your fleet will be compliant with the CLOCS Standard for Construction Logistics and with TfL’s WRRR (Work Related Road Risk)
2014
FORS SILVER FLEET OPPERATOR RECOGNITION SCHEME
Matthew James adds another official accreditation to its large list. The FORS Silver accreditation confirms that you employ good practice and comply with the requirements laid out by the FORS Standard. By achieving FORS Silver accreditation your fleet will be compliant with the CLOCS Standard for Construction Logistics and with TfL’s WRRR (Work Related Road Risk)
2013
THE MOVERS & STORERS SHOW – PACKER OF THE YEAR
Matthew James proves our industry leading skills by winning first place in the movers and stores show, packer of the year category
2013
FORS BRONZE FLEET OPPERATOR RECOGNITION SCHEME
Bronze accreditation confirms that you employ good practice and comply with the requirements laid out by the FORS Standard. This includes demonstrating dedication to driver and vehicle safety, combined with improving operating practices through effective monitoring of fuel and tyre usage. Operators must demonstrate that their vehicles are fitted with appropriate safety equipment such as mirrors, cameras, and warning signs. Driver training: Operators must provide evidence of driver training, including induction training, periodic training, and driver assessments.
2013
FORS BRONZE FLEET OPPERATOR RECOGNITION SCHEME
Bronze accreditation confirms that you employ good practice and comply with the requirements laid out by the FORS Standard. This includes demonstrating dedication to driver and vehicle safety, combined with improving operating practices through effective monitoring of fuel and tyre usage. Operators must demonstrate that their vehicles are fitted with appropriate safety equipment such as mirrors, cameras, and warning signs. Driver training: Operators must provide evidence of driver training, including induction training, periodic training, and driver assessments.
2012
TRUCKSTAR FESTIVAL – ASSEN
At Europe’s largest truck show with over 3000 entries Matthew James archives the following.
1st place for best paintwork on a vehicle
1st place for best spraying
2nd place for best interior
1st place for best paintwork on a vehicle
1st place for best spraying
2nd place for best interior
2012
TRUCK SHOW – BRAND HATCH
Best Custom Truck 1st Place
2012
TRUCK SHOW – BRAND HATCH
Best Custom Truck 1st Place
2012
TRUCK SHOW – UNITED TRUCKERS PETERBOROUGH
Best Rigid Truck 1st Place
2011
TRUCK SHOW – UNITED TRUCKERS PETERBOROUGH
Best Removal Vehicle 1st Place
2011
TRUCK SHOW – UNITED TRUCKERS PETERBOROUGH
Best Removal Vehicle 1st Place
2011
TRUCK SHOW – UNITED TRUCKERS PETERBOROUGH
Best Commercial Light Vehicle 1st Place
2011
TRUCK SHOW – BRANDS HATCH
Best American Truck 3rd Place
2011
TRUCK SHOW – UNITED TRUCKERS PETERBOROUGH
Best Removal Vehicle 1st Place
2008
TRUCKFEST – SOUTH EAST
3rd Place Best New Truck Award
2007
TRUCK SHOW – BRANDS HATCH
Best kept fleet 1st Place
2007
TRUCK SHOW – BRANDS HATCH
Best kept fleet 1st Place
2007
TRUCK SHOW – SANTA POD
Santa Pod Best Rigid Runner up
Santa Pod Best Light Commercial 3rd Place
Santa Pod Best Fleet 3rd Place
Santa Pod Best Light Commercial 3rd Place
Santa Pod Best Fleet 3rd Place
TRUCKFEST – SOUTH EAST
Best Rigid 3rd Place
TRUCK SHOW – SMARTS TRANSPORT
Company Owned Vehicle 2nd Place
Best Vehicle under 7.5T 2nd Place
Best New Truck 1st Place
Best Vehicle under 7.5T 2nd Place
Best New Truck 1st Place
2006
TRUCKFEST – SOUTH EAST
Best Rigid Vehicle 1st Place
Best Working Truck 3rd Place
Best Fleet 3rd Place
Best Working Truck 3rd Place
Best Fleet 3rd Place
2006
TRUCKFEST – SOUTH EAST
Best Rigid Vehicle 1st Place
Best Working Truck 3rd Place
Best Fleet 3rd Place
Best Working Truck 3rd Place
Best Fleet 3rd Place
2006
TRUCKFEST - SOUTH WEST
Best Rigid Truck 3rd Place
We’re proud to be accredited and industry-regulated
