When the time comes to pack up your treasures and move to pastures new, the practicalities of relocating—and the associated house removal costs—are often the first things that spring to mind. These costs can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the volume of possessions you need to move and the distance to your new home. However, the most significant factor typically hinges on whether you are planning on doing it yourself or hiring a professional removal firm to do the work for you, be it a small local business or a larger, more comprehensive company.
Understanding house removals cost is not only important for budgeting and decision-making, but it is essential to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth guide to the factors influencing costs, average prices, and practical money-saving tips and advice. By the end you’ll be able to make an informed decision as to whether you choose to hire a professional removals company or handle the move yourself.
| KEY TAKEAWAYS: |
|---|
| House removal costs vary widely based on volume, distance, services, and the choice between professional movers or DIY options. |
| Costs typically include transportation, labour, packing services, storage, and optional insurance or specialised handling. |
| Key influences include the size of the move, distance, labour needs, access challenges, and time of year. |
| DIY moves may be cheaper but require significant effort, while professional services offer convenience and expertise at a higher cost. |
| Local moves cost £400–£1,800 depending on property size, while national relocations average £1,025 or more. |
| Decluttering, comparing quotes, booking early, and moving during off-peak times can reduce costs significantly. |
What Does House Removals Cost Typically Include?
While most of us tend to focus on the transportation cost of moving house, house removals cost can encompass a range of services, whether locally, or long-distance, and can vary widely depending on several factors. Typical cost components are:
- Transportation costs
- Packing services
- Labour costs
- Storage services (if required)
- Insurance
- Specialised services (if required) for fragile or bulky items
- Charges relating to property accessibility
Factors That Influence House Removals Cost
Volume Of Possessions
In a nutshell, the more belongings you are moving, the higher the cost. Removal companies typically calculate costs based on the volume of items you have, often measured in cubic metres (m³). The larger the load, the bigger the vehicle required, which impacts transportation and labour costs. Plus, if your load exceeds the capacity of the removal vehicle, multiple trips may be necessary, which will increase fuel, time, and labour expenses further.
If you are thinking of hiring a van to move yourself, you’ll need to factor van size and hire duration into your budget.
Distance to Your New Home
Do not underestimate fuel costs. The greater the travelling distance, the great the impact on fuel, time, and overall charges.
Bigger moves may require a larger van, which uses more fuel and comes with higher rental or usage fees. For long-distance moves, this can significantly impact the overall cost.
Type of Service
Using a larger professional firm to help you move home will undoubtedly cost more than using a small local company or a DIY move. Many removal companies will offer packing and unpacking services including material costs (e.g. boxes, bubble wrap, tape) and things like dismantling furniture which can further add to the cost.
While moving yourself may be more budget-friendly, it’s important to weigh up whether the opportunity cost truly makes it worthwhile. Consider this: is the time, effort, and stress you’ll save by hiring a professional removal company ultimately more valuable to you overall?
Larger moves often include specialised items, such as antiques, furniture, appliances, artwork, or fragile goods which may require extra care or equipment. Removal companies may charge extra for these items, further raising the cost. Always check there are no hidden costs like this when sourcing removal quotes.
Time of Year
Spring and summer are popular seasons for moving, and it’s easy to see why. The weather tends to be more predictable, the days are longer and brighter, and families can use the summer holidays to help children settle into their new homes. After all, everything feels a little easier when the sun is shining!
However, there’s a downside: homebuyers completing their moves during these peak seasons often face higher costs due to the surge in demand. This premium is the price of convenience during this busy time of year.
Labour Requirements
Larger moves require all hands on deck for the physical work of loading and unloading your valuables, including dismantling and reassembling furniture if needed. The more you have, the higher the labour requirement and therefore, labour charges. For example, a 1-bedroom flat might only require 2 movers, while a 4-bedroom house could need 4 or more movers to complete the job efficiently.
Access Issues
Removal firms may incorporate additional charges for hard-to-reach properties or lack of parking. For instance, you may have a very narrow staircase, no parking, or no elevator access. Again, check there are no hidden costs like this when sourcing removal quotes.
Insurance
Most professional companies included basic liability insurance in their quotes to cover accidental damage or loss but always check this when asking for quote. You can normally choose additional coverage for high value or fragile possessions too.
Storage Requirements
When moving home, it is sometimes necessary to put your belongings into storage. For instance, you may experience a delay between moving out and into your new home. Other common scenarios include downsizing to a smaller property, renovating your new space, managing an international or long-distance move, or dealing with unexpected delays such as chain collapses or paperwork issues. Temporary storage can also be useful if you are staying in short-term accommodation. The point is, if you need to store your belongings in storage, you’ll pay a daily or monthly fee for the privilege.
DIY Moves vs Professional Services
When deciding between a DIY move and hiring professional removal services, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option:
| TYPE OF MOVE | PROS | CONS |
|---|---|---|
| DIY Moves | Lower costs: Renting a van and doing the work yourself is often cheaper. | It can be exhausting: Moving heavy furniture and boxes can be tiring and time-consuming. |
| Flexibility: You have control over the schedule, route, and handling of your items. | Risk of damage: Without professional handling, items are more prone to damage. | |
| Customisable effort: You can decide which tasks to handle (e.g. packing, loading). | Hidden costs: Renting equipment (e.g. trolley, boxes) and fuel can add up. | |
| Long-Term Van Hire: Renting a van for a longer period allows flexibility with your timeline and is more cost effective. | ||
| Professional Services | Convenience: Professionals handle packing, lifting, and logistics, saving you time. | Higher costs: Professional services can be significantly more expensive. |
| Expertise: Experienced movers know how to protect fragile or bulky items. | Less control: You rely on the company’s schedule and methods. | |
| Insurance coverage: Protection against accidental damage is typically included. | Potential delays: Scheduling conflicts or unforeseen issues could cause delays. |
Ultimately, your choice will depend on your budget, the complexity of your move, and how much time and effort you’re willing to invest. If you’re moving a short distance with minimal belongings, a DIY move might make sense. For larger or more complex moves, professional services can save you stress and provide peace of mind.
Average House Removals Cost
As we have already explored, the cost of removals in the UK using a professional company varies depending on a number of influencers including the size of the property and additional services required. However, to help you budget, we can tell you average house removals costs based on research by trusted industry sources (The HomeOwners Alliance, Checkatrade, and Help Me Move):
Local Moves
For moves within 50 miles, costs range from £400 to £750 for smaller homes like 1-bedroom properties and can rise to £1,200 to £1,800 for larger 4-bedroom homes (this estimate includes basic packaging but excludes optional extras). To clarify:
- 1-bedroom home: £450–£750
- 2-bedroom home: £600–£925
- 3-bedroom home: £900–£1,300
- 4-bedroom home: £1,200–£1,800
Long-Distance Moves
National relocations average around £1,025, with additional charges of £1.50 per mile for transport and £35 per hour for labour (depending on the distance and workload).
Packing Services
Hiring professional packers costs around £200-£300 for a typical job, based on a rate of approximately £50/hour per packer for 4 hours. Packing materials are often charged separately unless included in the service.
Furniture Assembly/Handling Fragile Items
Dismantling or reassembling furniture typically costs an extra £100-£150, while moving specialised or fragile items, such as pianos or antiques, may incur higher fees due to extra care or equipment needed.
Storage Costs
Temporary storage provided by removal companies is an additional service with variable pricing, based on the volume and duration of storage needed.
Remember, these costs reflect averages and will be subject to variations depending on property size, distance, and specific requirements. It is always best to conduct a pre-move survey and source detailed quotes from reputable removal companies for the most accurate pricing for your bespoke requirements.
How To Choose The Right Removal Company or Van Hire Company
Whether you are planning to move yourself or enlist professionals, it is important to research and read customer reviews of a company to ensure that you can trust them to deliver what they say they will.
When reviewing quotes from house removal companies, look out for:
- A detailed cost breakdown of charges e.g. transport, labour, fuel (and charges per mile), and additional services.
- Is insurance included?
- Are services like packing, loading/unloading, and furniture assembly included or charges as extra?
- Look for companies that offer a pre-move survey to provide an accurate and tailored quote based on your belongings and requirements.
- Are discounts for off peak moves (or flexible scheduling) offered?
When reviewing quotes from van hire companies, look out for:
- Detailed quotes that outline daily/monthly rates, mileage allowances, and fuel costs.
- Ensure the van size is suitable for your items to avoid multiple trips or overpaying for a larger vehicle than needed.
- Check for discounts on long-term hire if needed for multiple days/weeks.
- Verify the quote includes vehicle insurance and check the excess fees in case of damage of accidents.
- Look out for optional extras like trolleys, straps, or packing boxes that may be included or rented at an extra cost.
- Be aware of any late return fees, cleaning fees, or additional mileage over your agreed limits.
Top tip: Always compare at least three quotes and check company reviews for reliability and value for money.
Choosing the right company will help you balance quality and cost, so it is important to get it right.
In summary, with proper planning and research into the points we have covered in this article, you will manage your house removals cost effectively. Request quotes and take the necessary steps to make your moving experience as seamless, cost-effective, and as enjoyable as possible. If you are considering a DIY move and are in need of a short-term or long-term van for the occasion, you know where we are! Enquire today.
We have branches in New Cross, Croydon, and Eltham.
