How much does it really cost to move house?
From removal vans to hidden fees… Learn the real cost of moving house, and how to keep to your budget.
We've probably all been there at least once – a never-ending queue of fragile items needing to be carefully wrapped in newspaper and bubble wrap. The horror of realising you labelled your boxes in a rush, and now you have no idea what's inside any of them. And the desperately needed first cup of tea in the new place.
Yes – moving house is often described as one of the most stressful experiences in life. But the frustration of packing your life into boxes is only the start. The costs involved, too, can feel opaque, unpredictable and alarmingly quick to add up.
What starts as a simple objective to move from Point A to Point B can soon involve vans, sturdy boxes and cleaners. And that's before you come across those last-minute expenses you didn't even know existed.
So, how much does it really cost to move house in the UK?
The short and somewhat unsatisfying answer is: well, it depends! The longer answer is worth unpacking properly, so that's exactly what we've done for you here.
We hope it makes your move just a little bit easier.
The big variables: how far and how much?
Two factors shape the cost of any move more than anything else: distance and volume.
Moving a one-bedroom flat across town is very different from relocating the family home to another part of the country. The more belongings you have and the further they need to travel, the higher the cost is likely to be.
That said, even local moves can become expensive without careful planning and good time management.
The first step to keeping your budget under control is understanding exactly where your money is going.
Removal companies vs DIY moves
Professional removal companies can be a lifesaver, especially for large homes or complex moves.
They typically charge anywhere from a few hundred pounds for a small, local move to several thousand for larger, long-distance relocations. The price usually reflects the size of the property, the number of movers required, the distance travelled and whether packing services are included.
However, many people don't actually need a full removal service. If you're comfortable packing yourself, have helpers on hand or are moving in stages, a DIY move with a hired vehicle could be an option. And it could unlock big savings, too.
Hiring your own car or van gives you flexibility and often works out far cheaper, particularly for flats, student moves, downsizing or short-distance relocations.
Vehicle hire: a cost-effective alternative
Hiring a vehicle is one of the most controllable moving costs.
With a rental vehicle, you're paying for the time you need it rather than a bundled service. That means more freedom to plan around your budget.
Estate cars, larger hatchbacks and
vansare all popular options. The best choice for you depends on how much you're moving.
Vehicle hire also allows you to:
- Move items gradually rather than all at once
- Avoid paying for unnecessary labour
- Choose a vehicle size that actually fits your needs
For many people, especially those moving locally, it's the most cost-effective option available.
Packing supplies: small costs that add up
Boxes, parcel tape, bubble wrap, labels, marker pens – even the smaller costs of packing materials can quietly chip away at your budget.
Buying brand-new boxes can cost more than expected, especially if you underestimate how many you'll need. You may be able to reduce this cost by sourcing boxes from supermarkets, local shops or online community groups.
It's also worth remembering that better packing can prevent damage, which will work out far cheaper than replacing broken items later.
Cleaning costs
If you're renting, professional cleaning can often be an expectation. Depending on the size of the property, this can cost anywhere from £100 to £300 or more.
Even homeowners may choose to pay for cleaning to save time during an already busy period. While this is an optional cost, it's one that frequently catches people off guard and is unlikely to be a welcome expense.
Storage: the hidden middle cost
Sometimes moves don't line up neatly. Completion dates are prone to shift, keys get delayed and new homes sometimes aren't quite ready when they're meant to be.
Storage units can bridge that gap, but they come at a price. Monthly storage costs vary depending on size and location, and short-term use can quickly become longer than planned.
If you think you might need storage, factor it in early rather than assuming it won't be necessary.
Time off work and childcare
Not all moving costs appear on receipts.
Taking time off work, arranging childcare or paying for pet care can all add to the overall expense. Even paid leave can have an impact. That's especially true if your move stretches over several days and cuts into your chance to use time off for real rest and relaxation.
This is where planning – and choosing flexible transport options – can really help reduce disruption.
The unexpected extras
Almost every move has at least one surprise cost.
It might be an extra day of vehicle hire or replacing furniture that doesn't fit the new space. You might even find yourself forking out for takeaway meals because you haven't had a chance to unpack the kitchen yet.
Building a small contingency into your budget can help these moments feel manageable rather than stressful.
How much should you budget?
Every move is different. However, many UK movers find that costs range from a few hundred pounds for a small DIY move to several thousand for a full-service relocation.
The key difference isn't just property size – it's how much control you keep over the process.
By packing yourself, hiring the right vehicle, and planning carefully, it's entirely possible to move house without overspending.
Move smarter with MVH Rental
At MVH Rental, vehicle hire makes moving house simpler, calmer, and more affordable.
Whether you need an estate car for boxes and smaller furniture, or a Luton van for a one-day move, hiring with MVH Rental is the smart choice. It offers you control and flexibility without committing to costly extras. You choose the timeframe, the vehicle size and the pace.
With MVH Rental, you can keep costs under control and focus on the excitement of starting somewhere new. Cheers to that!
Are you in the northeast of England and need to hire a moving van? With MVH, you'll get the best local price – guaranteed. Call us today on 0191 4888 700 or browse our rental vehicles online.
