Man and Van vs Removal Company — Which Is Right for Your Move?

When you're planning a move, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to hire a man with a van or a full removal company. Both have their place — but the right choice depends on your specific situation.

What is a man with a van?

A man with a van is typically a self-employed driver with a suitable vehicle (large van, Luton van, or similar) who helps you move your belongings. They usually work alone or with one helper. They're flexible, often available at short notice, and generally cheaper than full removal firms.

What does a removal company offer?

A full removal company typically provides a team of people, a larger vehicle, and often includes packing materials, disassembly, and packing services. They're better suited to large family homes where the volume and complexity of the move warrants a team.

When to choose a man with a van

• You're moving a studio, 1, or 2-bedroom home
• You're moving a small number of large items (sofa, fridge, wardrobe)
• You're a student moving in or out of university accommodation
• You need flexibility on dates and times
• You're on a tighter budget
• You're doing a local move (under 50 miles)

When to choose a removal company

• You're moving a large family home (3+ bedrooms)
• You want a full packing and unpacking service
• You have high-value or specialist items (piano, antiques, art)
• You need full Goods in Transit insurance with a high cover limit
• You're doing a long-distance move and want professional project management

The hybrid approach

Many customers find the best of both worlds by posting on We Got The Move. You'll get bids from sole-trader drivers and small removal companies alike — so you can compare, read reviews, and pick whoever offers the best combination of price and service for your specific job.

Cost comparison

For a 2-bedroom local move:

• Man with a van: £250 – £500
• Removal company: £500 – £900

The premium you pay for a full removal company reflects the extra staff, vehicles, and services. Whether it's worth it depends entirely on your circumstances.