Moving home comes with lots of questions, but price is usually top of the list. In 2026, removal costs in the UK still depend on a few consistent drivers, so the best way to control your spend is to understand those driversearly, choose the right level of help, and be flexible on dates where you can. This guide explains what affects cost, gives two realistic example scenarios, and shows how to trim the bill without cutting corners on care.
If you want tailored figures for your home and dates, call 01962 860905 for free advice or request a quote online.
What actually drives the cost of a removal?
Several factors shape your final price. Think of them as levers you can adjust.
Property size and volume of contents
More rooms and fuller cupboards mean more boxes, a larger vehicle, and a bigger team or longer time on site.
Distance between addresses
Local moves usually price by time and team size. Long distance adds mileage, driving hours, and sometimes overnight allowances.
Packing level
Self-pack is cheapest. Partial packing focuses on fragile and high-effort rooms like the kitchen. Full packing covers everything and reduces your workload.
Access at both properties
Tight staircases, long carries from the door to the van, top-floor flats without lifts, and limited parking increase labour time and may require extra staff.
Timing and demand
Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be best value. Fridays, weekends, end-of-month, school holidays, and bank holidays are peak. October, November, January, and February often have better availabilityand sharper pricing.
Optional insurance
Basic legal cover is usually included. Upgrading to Full Value Protection increases peace of mind, with an added cost based on declared value and policy terms.
Extras and special handling
Dismantling and reassembly, piano or artwork handling, TV and picture cartons, and secure storage if you have a gap between completion and move-in all influence the quote.
How much should you expect to pay in the UK?
You will see ranges online claiming a single “average.” The reality is that averages hide huge differences in volume, access, and timing. A fair way to set expectations is to think in bands.
Local moving cost
For a small flat or 1-bedroom home on a midweek slot with straightforward access, budget for a compact team across a half or full day. If your move stretches over multiple trips, or you add packing,expect more.
Movers per hour in the UK
Crews are usually priced as a team per hour rather than per mover. The hourly rate reflects the van type and skill level. Rates tend to be lower midweek and higher on Fridays or weekends.
Because every home is different, an on-site or video survey is the most reliable way to confirm the crew size, vehicle, and time needed. It prevents over or under booking and protects your budget from avoidable surprises.
Our published packing service ranges
If you want help with packing, here are our typical 2026 ranges for planning. These usually include professional materials. If you supply your own boxes, we can adjust.
Small flat or 1-bedroom
Partial kitchen and fragile pack from 330 to 350; full packing 350 to 450.
2-bedroom home
Partial 300 to 450; full packing 500 to 800.
3-bedroom home
Partial 400 to 650; full packing 700 to 1,100.
4-bedroom and larger
Partial 600 to 900; full packing 1,400 to 1,800 depending on volume and specialist items.
A short on-site survey helps us confirm your exact needs and keep costs accurate.
Example scenario 1: a 2-bedroom local move
Picture a 2-bedroom terrace moving within the same town.
Volume and crew
Typical contents for two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen, and storage areas might need a Luton or 7.5t vehicle and a 2 to 3 person crew. If you have a garage or shed full of tools and bikes, volume increases.
Access
Good kerbside parking and ground floor access keep time down. If there is a long walk to the vehicle or narrow staircases, allow extra time or an additional porter.
Packing choices
Self-pack saves money. A hybrid approach, where we pack the kitchen and fragile items while you handle clothes and books, balances cost and protection.
Timing
A midweek date in October or November is often more economical than a Friday at the end of the month.
Storage and gaps
If completion times are tight, short-term storage can avoid paying for standby time at the new address. We can collect, hold, and deliver when the keys are ready.
Takeaway: For a local two-bed, cost is mainly about crew time, vehicle size, and packing choices. Hybrid packing and a midweek slot are the simplest ways to keep it sensible.
Example scenario 2: a 3-bedroom long-distance move
Now consider a 3-bedroom detached house moving from Hampshire to a different region.
Volume and vehicles
A larger 3-bed with loft items and garden furniture may need a 7.5t vehicle or articulated combination, plus protective materials for furniture and art.
Route and scheduling
Distance, traffic windows, and driver hours affect pricing. Longer routes may need split loading days or overnight stops. Planning reduces risk and cost.
Packing
Full packing gives the best protection for a longer journey. Many customers choose fragile-only packing to protect kitchens, glassware, mirrors, and tech, while self-packing clothes and linens.
Access
Rural lanes, parking restrictions, and delivery address gradients can influence time and the equipment we bring.
Insurance
Consider Full Value Protection for a long haul, especially for high-value items. Declare items in advance to set cover correctly.
Takeaway: For a long-distance 3-bed, distance, packing level, and scheduling are the key cost drivers. Good planning, accurate volume assessment, and clear access notes make the biggest difference