Student Removal Costs UK — 2026 Guide

Student moves are usually small — a bedroom's worth of clothes, bedding, a few kitchen items, and maybe a desk or TV. That makes them one of the most affordable removal jobs around, but prices still vary depending on how far you're moving and how much stuff you have. Here's what to expect in 2026.

Typical student removal costs

• Single bedroom load, local move (under 20 miles): £80 – £200
• Single bedroom load, medium distance (20–80 miles): £150 – £350
• Single bedroom load, long distance (80–200 miles): £250 – £500
• Shared house move (splitting costs between housemates): £300 – £700 total

If you're moving just a car-load of boxes and a few bags, some drivers will quote under £80 for a short local move. Describe exactly what you have to get an accurate price.

How to save money on a student move

• Share a van with housemates — if several of you are moving out on the same day, splitting one van is significantly cheaper than hiring separately
• Be flexible on the date — end-of-term dates (especially late June and late September) are peak demand for student moves; move a few days earlier or later and you'll pay less
• Pack everything yourself — drivers charge extra for packing; have everything boxed and labelled before they arrive
• Sell or donate what you don't need — less stuff = smaller van = lower cost
• Book early — drivers fill up fast around university term dates

Peak dates to avoid (or book early for)

The busiest student removal dates in the UK are:

• Late June to early July: End of academic year, most students moving out
• Mid to late September: Start of term, students moving into new accommodation
• Christmas and Easter breaks: Some students take belongings home temporarily

If your move date falls in any of these windows, post your job at least 3–4 weeks in advance.

Do you need a full removal service or just a van?

For most student moves, a man with a van (one driver, one van) is more than enough. You don't need a full removal team. Describe your load honestly — a driver who shows up expecting a single bedroom and finds a fully furnished house won't be happy, and you may face extra charges.

On We Got The Move, posting a student removal job is completely free. You describe the job, drivers in your area bid, and you choose. Most student moves receive several competitive quotes within a few hours. You only pay £9.99 when you accept.