Planning a move in London can feel overwhelming. One of the biggest concerns people face is how much their move will actually cost. With rising living expenses in 2026, getting a clear idea of your moving cost London is more important than ever.
This complete guide will help you:
- Understand the average moving costs in London
- Learn what factors increase or reduce your bill
- Compare Man and Van vs. full-service movers
- Avoid hidden charges
- Discover money-saving tips for your next move
Whether you’re moving from a studio flat, a family house, or need a man with a van, this guide breaks everything down in simple, easy-to-follow sections.
Average Moving Costs in London (2026)
The average moving cost London depends on the type of service you choose, the size of your property, and the distance of your move.
Here’s a quick overview of average prices in 2026:
| Move Size | Average Cost (Within London) | Average Cost (Outside London, up to 50 miles) |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-Bed Flat | £150 – £300 | £250 – £400 |
| 2-Bed Flat | £300 – £600 | £400 – £700 |
| 3-Bed House | £600 – £1,000 | £700 – £1,200 |
| 4-Bed House | £900 – £1,500 | £1,200 – £2,000 |
💡 Tip: Always ask for a detailed quote, as movers may include packing, materials, or insurance separately.
Factors That Affect Moving Costs
Several factors influence your moving cost London:
1. Distance
- Short moves within central London are cheaper.
- Long-distance moves (out of London or cross-country) cost more due to fuel and time.
2. Property Size
- A studio or 1-bedroom flat is faster and cheaper to move.
- A 4+ bedroom house requires more movers, trucks, and hours.
3. Services Required
- Basic transport only: Cheapest option (great for DIY packers).
- Full service (packing + moving): More expensive but stress-free.
- Extra services: Cleaning, furniture disassembly, and storage add costs.
4. Time of Move
- Weekends and month-end dates are busiest (and priciest).
- Mid-week and off-peak days are cheaper.
5. Accessibility
- Movers may charge extra if your building has no lift.
- Narrow streets, restricted parking, or long carry distances also increase the cost.
London Moving Services and Their Costs
There are several types of moving services in London, each with different pricing structures. Understanding these options can help you manage your overall moving cost London more effectively.
Man and Van Services
If you’re making a small move or relocating just a few items, a Man and Van London service is the most affordable choice and a smart way to reduce your moving cost London.
- Ideal for single professionals, students, or partial moves
- Usually charged hourly (£45 – £65 per hour)
- Flexible and quick
👉 Learn more: Man and Van London
Home Movers
Full home moving services handle everything from packing to loading, transporting, and unpacking.
- Best for families or larger properties
- Costs range from £600 – £1,500 depending on house size
- Includes trained staff and proper equipment
👉 Check services: Home Movers London
Apartment Movers
Moving apartments in London comes with challenges like lifts, tight staircases, and parking restrictions.
- Apartment movers are specialists in handling these challenges
- Average costs: £300 – £800 depending on flat size
- Many offer packing and furniture dismantling services
👉 Explore: Apartment Movers
Domestic Movers
If you’re moving across London or relocating to another UK city, domestic movers are ideal.
- Handle long-distance transport
- Costs: £800 – £2,000+ depending on distance & property size
- Often includes insurance for added peace of mind
👉 More info: Domestic Movers
Hidden Costs You Should Know
Not all moving companies include everything in their initial quote. Watch out for these extra charges:
- Packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap, tape) – £50–£150
- Parking permits – £30–£100 depending on your borough
- Stairs / access fees – £20–£40 per floor if no lift available
- Last-minute bookings – 20–40% higher rates
- Storage costs – £20–£50 per week per storage unit
💡 Always ask your mover for a full written breakdown of charges.
How to Save Money on Your London Move
Moving to London doesn’t have to drain your budget. Here are some proven tips:
- Compare multiple movers – Don’t settle for the first quote.
👉 Read: Affordable Moving in London - Book early – Avoid last-minute surcharges.
- Move mid-week or off-peak – Cheaper than weekends.
- Declutter before moving – Sell or donate items to reduce load.
- Do your own packing – Buy boxes online instead of paying movers.
- Ask for package deals – Some movers offer discounts for combined services.
Comparing Costs – Man with a Van vs. Full-Service Movers
Choosing between a Man with a Van and full-service movers depends on your needs.
| Option | Best For | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Man with a Van | Small moves, students, single professionals | £45 – £65 per hour | Cheap, fast, flexible | Limited help, no full packing service |
| Full-Service Movers | Families, large homes, long-distance | £600 – £2,000 | Stress-free, includes packing & heavy lifting | More expensive |
👉 Related guide: How Much Does a Man with a Van Cost in London?
Conclusion
Your moving cost London in 2026 depends on your property size, the distance of your move, and the type of service you choose. A man with a van is ideal for smaller moves, while full-service movers are better for families and long-distance relocations.
Always compare quotes, check for hidden fees, and plan to keep your move stress-free and affordable.
👉 Ready to move? Contact Kash Movers today for a free quote.
London Moving Cost FAQ (2026)
On average, moving a 1-bed flat costs £150 – £400 depending on distance and services required.
Yes, a man with a van is cheaper for small moves, starting at around £45 per hour.
Most movers charge between £45 and £65 per hour for standard services.
Some movers include basic boxes and wrapping, while others charge extra. Always confirm before booking.
1- Move during weekdays
2- Pack items yourself
3- Declutter unwanted furniture
4- Compare multiple quotes