Moving house is one of life's bigger expenses, but how much should you actually pay? Prices vary enormously depending on the size of your home, how far you're moving, and how many drivers compete for your job.
Average removal costs by property size
As a rough guide, here's what most customers pay for a local move (under 50 miles) in 2026:
- Studio or bedsit: £150 – £350
- 1-bedroom flat: £250 – £500
- 2-bedroom flat or house: £400 – £800
- 3-bedroom house: £600 – £1,200
- 4+ bedroom house: £900 – £2,000+
How distance affects removal costs
The further you're moving, the more it will cost. Fuel, time, and whether the driver needs to stay overnight all factor in. A rough multiplier:
- Under 10 miles: Use the base figures above
- 10–50 miles: Add 20–30%
- 50–150 miles: Add 50–80%
- 150+ miles: Add 80–150% or more
What drives costs up
- Stairs and access issues: Narrow doorways, no lift, upper floor flats all add time and effort.
- Packing service: If you want the driver to pack your belongings too, expect to add £100–£300.
- Piano or specialist items: These require specialist equipment and experience — budget separately.
- Weekend or peak dates: Friday and Saturday moves cost more. End-of-month dates (especially month-end in summer) are the most expensive.
- London congestion charge and ULEZ: If your move involves central London, ask your driver about these charges (currently £15/day for congestion, variable for ULEZ).
How to get the best price
The single biggest factor in getting a competitive price is letting drivers compete. On We Got The Move, you post your job for free and local drivers bid against each other — which keeps prices honest. Tips for getting the best quotes:
- Post your job at least 2–3 weeks before your move date
- Add as much detail as possible — drivers hate surprises
- Include photos if you can
- Be flexible on your moving date — midweek is almost always cheaper than weekends
Is cheap always best?
Not necessarily. The lowest bid isn't always the right choice — check the driver's profile, read reviews, and make sure they have appropriate insurance. A slightly more expensive driver with great reviews is usually worth it over a bargain with no track record.
On We Got The Move, posting is completely free. You only pay £9.99 when you choose to accept a driver's bid — after which you pay the driver directly. No commission, no hidden fees.
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