Builders
Carpenters
Electricians
Flooring Specialists
Gardeners
Handymen
Heating Engineers
Painters & Decorators
Plasterers & Renderers
Plumbers
Roofers
Tilers
myHouse Removal Cost
At a Glance
- The average removal company costs around £1,000 to hire.
- It typically takes between 1 and 2 days (depending on distance and property size).
- NEW! Use our house removal cost calculator for an instant estimate.
- A breakdown of house removal costs by property size and distance.
- Extra costs that local house removal companies may include in your quote.
- How to easily and quickly find house removal companies near you.
Get free estimates
Are you a trade? Get more work today!
£1,000
Table of Contents
- How Much Do Removal Companies Charge?
- What's Included in a House Removal?
- Factors that Impact House Removal Costs
- How Much Do Movers Cost to Hire?
- How Long Does a House Removal Take?
- Additional House Removal Costs
- Can I Handle a House Removal Myself?
- Checklist: Finding a House Removal Company Near You
- FAQs
House Removal Cost Calculator
How Much Do Removal Companies Charge?
They say moving house is one of the most stressful life experiences. But it really doesn't need to be. The key is finding a removals company to handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on everything else that's involved in moving home.
The cost of house removals in the UK depends mainly on three factors:
- Size of the property. The bigger the home the more belongings to move.
- Distance of the move. Longer moves cost more fuel, time and logistics.
- Level of service. Extras like packing or furniture dismantling add to the price.
To give you a clear idea, here's a breakdown of the average UK house removal costs by property size and distance of the move.
House Removals Costs (Up to 50 Miles)
| PROPERTY SIZE | AVERAGE COST |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | £320-£420 |
| 2 Bedroom | £520-£640 |
| 3 Bedroom | £800-£950 |
| 4 Bedroom | £1,000-£1,150 |
| 5 Bedroom | £1,300-£1,450 |
Want a custom price?
Post your job
House Removals Costs (Up to 150 Miles)
| PROPERTY SIZE | AVERAGE COST |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | £400-£500 |
| 2 Bedroom | £750-£920 |
| 3 Bedroom | £870-£1.000 |
| 4 Bedroom | £1,060-£1,220 |
| 5 Bedroom | £1,380-£1,500 |
Want a custom price?
Post your job
What's Included in a House Removal?
When you hire a professional home removals company, most offer a core package designed to make your move as smooth as possible. While optional extras like packing and storage can be added, here's what's typically included as standard removals service.
- Loading and unloading — When using a professional removals firm trained staff will carefully load all your furniture and belongings into the van and unload them at your new home. Most companies provide protective sheets, blankets and securing straps to prevent damage in transit, although when hiring a man and van service you may wish to check first.
- Transport — Your possessions are transported safely in an appropriate removals van. The size of the vehicle is often matched to the volume of items that require moving, based on a pre-provided inventory list or as agreed at time of booking.
- Insurance cover — Most reputable removal firms include limited goods-in-transit insurance, which will provide cover in the event of loss or accidental damage by the removal team or caused during transit. This may come with exclusions or only cover up to a certain value, in which case a higher-level of insurance may be offered as an optional extra.
- Standard equipment — As part of the service, most removal companies use supply dollies, lifting straps and protective coverings to make sure items are removed efficiently and securely.
Factors that Impact House Removal Costs
The cost of a house removal varies depending on several factors, and knowing what these are can help you budget and plan more effectively.
The Size of Your Property
Larger homes usually have more belongings to move, both inside and outside. This increases labour time and transport requirements. Also think about items in garages and sheds that will require removal.
The Distance of the Move
The further you're moving, the higher the transport costs and labour fees. Long distance moves take more time and fuel which adds to the total price. International removals will increase costs significantly.
The Location of Your Property
Where you're relocating to also impacts removal costs you're quoted.
Moves in London typically cost more than those in other parts of the UK. For very long distance moves, many removal companies charge a cost per mile beyond a set distance, often starting after 150 miles.
How Much Do Movers Cost to Hire?
Labour is often the largest part of the removals bill. The cost depends on the size of your property, the number of staff needed, and how many vehicles are required for the move.
As a guide, average labour costs are:
- 1 bedroom property. £320-£520
- 3 bedroom property. £800-£1,050
- 5 bedroom property. £1,500-£1,750
These prices cover a removals team to load, transport, and unload your belongings safely. Costs will also vary depending on location. For example, moves in London or the South East often involve higher labour rates than other parts of the UK.
How Long Does a House Removal Take?
Most local moves can be completed in a single day. However, the exact timescale depends on the property size, and how much packing is involved.
Typical timings are:
- Packing Depending on the size of property, this can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more. However, experienced removal companies can potentially pack belongings much quicker than doing it yourself.
- Loading. 2-4 hours for smaller homes, 6-8 hours for larger properties. Some moves involve more than one van load, which will increase the combined loading time overall.
- Transport. Same day for local moves, which may require multiple trips where necessary. Long distance can take a full day of travel or more, depending on the distance and destination.
- Unloading and unpacking. 2-6 hours depending on property size and access, potentially longer if more than one van load is required or potentially longer if combined with other services.
For larger homes or long distance relocations, the whole process may take 2-3 days. Most removals companies will provide a personalised schedule after assessing your property and belongings.
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Additional House Removal Costs
Beyond the standard removals fees, there are a few extra expenses you may need to budget for, depending on your property and removal needs.
Packing Materials and Services
If you hire a removals company to supply and pack your belongings, expect to pay £30 to £100 for a standard move (approximately 30 boxes, tape and protective materials). Costs increase for larger homes or extra items. Professional packing services can save time and reduce the risk of damage.
What's the best way to pack a TV for moving to protect it from damage? What would a professional service do?
"If you have a box then wrap in bubble wrap and place in box tape up thoroughly if not wrap in a blanket or sheet then bubble wraps just make sure it’s secure in the back of the van or car"
Storage Costs
If there's a gap between your move out and move in dates, you may need short or long term storage.
Typical UK storage units cost £50 to £150 per week, although this is often charged at a monthly fee. Some removals companies can arrange storage as part of their service.
Cleaning (End of Tenancy/Pre-Move)
Many people hire professional cleaners for their old or new property.
End of tenancy cleaning for a one bedroom property can cost £80 to £150, increasing to between £250 to £500 for a four or five bedroom home.
Parking Permits and Access Charges
Temporary permits may be required for removal vans in restricted areas, costing around £20 to £50. Narrow streets, long driveways, or restricted loading zones can incur extra charges.
Flat Pack Furniture Assembly
To hire a handymanfor flat pack furniture assembly, it typically costs £20 to £60 per hour.
Can I Handle a House Removal Myself?
It is very possible for you to conduct a home move yourself as a DIY project. However, it takes a lot of effort and a lot of hard work.
A professional removal company will typically manage all stages, ensuring all your belongings are handled safely and efficiently.
Packing Your Belongings
All items need to be packed securely for transport. You can either pack yourself or hire the removal team to do it. Professional packing services include boxes, tape and protective materials to keep fragile items safe.
Dismantling and Reassembling Furniture
Large furniture may need to be taken apart before moving. Removal teams can dismantle, transport and reassemble items in your new home, making the process easier and safer for both your belongings and movers.
Moving Goods
The removals team loads all items onto the vehicles, ensuring fragile and heavy items are handled appropriately. Transport can be local or long distance, with extra considerations for overnight trips on longer moves.
Checklist: Finding a House Removal Company Near You
Choosing the right removals company is essential to ensure a smooth, safe and stress free move.
Asking the right questions can save time, avoid unexpected costs and give you confidence that your belongings are in safe hands. Below is a list of things to consider when finding the right removals specialists for the job.
- Have you received recommendations? As well as checking for online reviews, such as their MyJobQuote profile, ask friends and family for advice on who they have used previously for similar removals.
- Have you received more than one quote? It is recommended to request at least three separate quotes, as the price you might pay a “man and a van” is likely to be less than a professional removals firm. By using MyJobQuote, you can find local removal companies in your area without any commitment to go ahead.
- Do they have the right experience for the job? Ask whether the company has relevant removals experience and if they can provide references from previous jobs, especially when handling delicate items or high-value belongings.
- Do they provide insurance and guarantees? Check whether your goods and property are insured against loss or accidental damage, and what level of cover is included. Most reputable companies will also hold public liability insurance in the event of an accident or injury.
- Do they have a suitable vehicle and the right equipment? Ensure the transport being used is suitable for your requirements, including safety straps and added protection where needed. Specialised tools and equipment may also be required to move certain belongings properly.
- How long will the move take? As part of the quote, you should receive an estimate of the timings involved, approximately how many trips will be required, and the number of contractors involved.
- What preparation is required in advance? Ask if there is anything needed from your side prior to the move to make things run smoothly, even if you are paying for a packing service to be included.
FAQs
When should I book a house removal service?
Most removals contractors need around 7-14 days' notice before the date of the required work. You should aim to begin contacting removals companies as soon as you find out your moving date. If you are selling a property, avoid booking until you know the sale is definitely going ahead.
Can I change my moving date after booking?
Yes, in most cases you can change your moving date, but it depends on the removals company’s availability and their terms and conditions. Many companies allow date changes if you give sufficient notice, usually 48–72 hours or more in advance, however you may be subject to additional charges if you need to cancel or change the removals date at short notice.
Do removals companies require a deposit?
In some cases removal companies may require a deposit in advance to secure their services, although this can vary depending on who you hire for the job. If you are ask to pay a deposit, always have confirmation or a receipt in return as this will then be taken into account when paying the final invoice.
Are there any items that may be restricted?
Yes, removals companies often have restrictions on certain items for safety and insurance reasons. Aside from illegal items, other prohibited belongings may include hazardous materials (such as waste, fuel, gas canisters and fireworks) and in some cases perishable food, pets, livestock and goods that require specialist knowledge. If you are uncertain, you should always check with your removal firm in advance.
Do I need to get the locks changed at my new house?
It is usually recommended that you change the locks on your new home simply for your own peace of mind. You never know who may have a copy of the key to your new home, so it's definitely best to get the locks changed so that you don't have to worry about someone entering your home without consent.
When do I have to pay the removals company?
Most removals companies will require the payment in full before the day of the job. You will usually be asked for payment at least a week in advance of the moving day. This is a standard practice for those who are members of the British Association of Removers (BAR).
