One of the most common questions we’re asked is simply: “How much is this going to cost?” It’s a fair question, and the honest answer is that it depends on several factors. Rather than quote a single misleading figure, here’s a clear breakdown of what actually drives removal costs in London, so you can budget realistically and compare quotes properly.

The Main Factors That Affect Your Quote

Property size.
This is the biggest single factor. A studio flat with light furniture will cost significantly less to move than a three-bedroom family home, simply because of the time and van capacity required.

Distance. A local move within the same borough will typically cost less than a cross-London or out-of-city move, both because of travel time and fuel.

Access. Ground-floor properties with easy parking are quicker and cheaper to move than upper-floor flats without a lift, or homes on streets where the van has to park some distance away.

Time of booking. Weekends, bank holidays, and the end of the month (when many tenancies turn over) are the busiest periods for removal companies, and prices reflect that demand. Booking a weekday move, where possible, can noticeably reduce cost.

Packing requirements. If you pack everything yourself, you’ll pay only for transport and labour. If you want a full packing service included, this adds to the overall price but saves considerable time and effort.

Additional services. Furniture disassembly and reassembly, storage, and specialist handling for items like pianos or artwork are typically charged separately from the base removal cost.

Man and Van vs Full Removal Service Pricing

As a general rule, man and van services are charged hourly and suit smaller moves where you’re doing some of the work yourself. Full removal services are usually quoted as a fixed price covering the whole job, including packing and a dedicated team, and reflect that higher level of service. Neither option is inherently “better value” — it depends entirely on the size of your move and how much you want handled for you.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

The most reliable way to budget for a move is to get a specific quote rather than relying on general averages, since so much depends on your particular property and circumstances. When requesting quotes, it helps to provide:

• The number of bedrooms and an approximate inventory of larger items

• Whether either property has stairs, lifts, or restricted parking

• Your preferred moving date, and whether you have flexibility around it

• Whether you need packing materials or a packing service included
  
  

Red Flags to Watch For

Not all low quotes represent good value. Be cautious of removal companies that won’t confirm insurance cover in writing, quote a price without asking any details about your property, or ask for a large deposit well in advance of the move. A reputable company will be transparent about what’s included and what might incur extra charges.

Getting the Best Value

The best way to keep costs down without compromising on service is to book early, declutter before your move so you’re not paying to transport things you don’t need, and be flexible on your moving date if possible. Weekday moves outside peak end-of-month periods are consistently the most cost-effective option in London.

At VAN on the MOVE, we provide clear, upfront quotes based on your actual move — no hidden fees or last-minute surprises. Get in touch with a few details about your property and moving date, and we’ll give you an honest, accurate price.