Moving house or office in London can be an exciting new chapter—but it also comes with costs. One of the most common questions people ask is: "How much do movers cost in London?"
The answer depends on several factors including the size of your move, the distance, the level of service, and even the time of year. In this article, we’ll break down the typical costs of hiring professional movers in London, explore what influences pricing, and offer tips on how to save money without sacrificing quality.
Average Cost of Hiring Movers in London (2025 Estimates)
Hiring movers in London typically costs between:
- £300 – £1,200 for home moves
- £500 – £2,000+ for office relocations
Here’s a rough breakdown based on property size:
Property SizeAverage Moving Cost (within London)1-bedroom flat£300 – £4502-bedroom house£450 – £7503-bedroom house£700 – £1,2004+ bedroom house£1,200+
These figures usually include loading, transport, and unloading. Additional services like packing, storage, or furniture assembly can increase the final bill.
Key Factors That Influence Moving Costs
Several elements can affect the price you pay for a moving company in London:
1. Size of the Move
The more items you have, the larger the van you’ll need—and possibly more movers. More belongings = higher costs.
2. Distance
A move within the same borough may be cheaper than one across town or out of the city.
3. Packing Services
If you want the movers to pack your items, expect to pay extra. Packing costs start from £100–£300+, depending on the quantity and fragility of items.
4. Disassembly and Reassembly
Large furniture (like beds, wardrobes, desks) that needs to be taken apart and reassembled will add labour time and cost—typically £50–£100 per item.
5. Access Conditions
Difficult access (no lift, narrow staircases, or long carry distances) can increase cost due to additional labour time.
6. Day and Time
Fridays, weekends, and the end of the month are peak times. You may pay 20–30% more compared to midweek, off-peak moves.
7. Insurance and Liability
Most professional movers offer basic insurance, but full-value protection may cost more.
8. Storage Requirements
If there’s a gap between moving out and moving in, you may need to store your belongings. Storage in London typically costs £15–£40 per week for a small unit.
Hourly Rates for Movers in London
Some moving companies in London charge hourly rates, which is common for smaller moves or man-with-a-van services.
Service TypeAverage Hourly Rate (2 movers + van)Man with a van£50 – £70 per hour2-bed move£65 – £90 per hour3+ movers£90 – £130 per hour
Most companies have a 2- or 3-hour minimum booking.
Hidden Fees to Watch Out For
Not all quotes are transparent. Watch for:
- Fuel charges or congestion zone fees
- Waiting time charges
- Packing material costs
- Stair charges for multi-floor buildings with no lift
- Cancellation or rescheduling fees
Always ask for an itemised quote before booking.
Tips to Save Money on Your London Move
- Declutter Before You Move
- Donate, sell, or recycle items you no longer need. Fewer items mean lower moving costs.
- Pack Yourself
- Doing your own packing can save £100–£300, but use quality materials to avoid breakages.
- Move Midweek or Mid-Month
- Avoid Fridays, weekends, and month-end if possible. Rates are usually cheaper midweek.
- Compare Quotes
- Get at least 3 quotes from reputable companies. Use platforms like Compare My Move or Getamover.
- Use a Local Moving Company
- Local movers in your borough may offer better rates than national chains.
- Book Early
- Secure the best price and availability by booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
Do I Really Need Professional Movers?
You might be tempted to rent a van and do it yourself—but professional movers:
- Save you time and physical effort
- Provide insurance coverage
- Have the experience to avoid damage
- Work efficiently and reduce stress on moving day
For larger homes, families, or office relocations, professional movers are often well worth the cost.
Recommended Movers in London
Here are a few trusted names:
- CarryCrew Removals – Affordable and flexible, ideal for homes and offices.
- AnyVan – Great for comparing multiple quotes quickly.
- Bishop’s Move – Long-standing London movers with full-service options.
- Aussie Man and Van – Known for both local and international relocations.
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