Moving house can be a task of nightmares. From packing your belongings to making sure they reach your new property in one piece, the journey can be riddled with stress and anxiety. On top of all the factors that contribute to the overwhelming feeling of anxiety, the cost of removals can often be at the forefront; so it’s crucial to understand the pricing of removals.
With this article, we aim to help manage some of the mystery around removals pricing and serve as a comprehensive guide to the cost of house removals in 2023.
The prices in this article are estimated prices based on trusted sources and the average cost of removals around the UK.
Average Costs of House Removals
The primary aspect to consider when calculating the cost of house removals is the size of the move. On average, you can expect to pay between £400 and £1,200 for a standard removal service. This includes packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking.
However, these costs can significantly increase if you require additional services or if there are unique conditions to your move, such as difficult access at either property or the need to move particularly large or fragile items.
Costs Based on Property Size
- Studio or One-Bedroom Flat: The average cost for removals from a studio or one-bedroom flat ranges from £150 to £350. These removals generally require fewer resources and manpower, hence the lower price range.
- Two-Bedroom House/Flat: For a two-bedroom property, removal costs can vary on average from £350 to £600. This accounts for the additional rooms and belongings that will require more time, packing materials, and possibly an additional removal van.
- Three-Bedroom House/Flat: If you are moving from a three-bedroom house, removal costs can increase from around £600 to £1,000. The size and quantity of furniture and other items generally increase with property size, hence the rise in cost.
- Four-Bedroom or Larger Properties: If your property has four bedrooms or more, removal costs can exceed £1,000, possibly reaching up to £2,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the move.
Additional Costs
There are several additional costs that you may need to consider. Here are a few common ones:
- Packing Materials: If you choose to pack your items yourself, you will need to purchase packing materials. These can range from £50 to £200, depending on the size of your property.
- Additional Removal Services: If you require additional removal services such as dismantling and reassembling furniture, or moving high-value or difficult-to-handle items such as pianos or antiques, expect to pay an additional £50 to £200.
- Storage: If you need to store your belongings temporarily, storage costs can range from £20 to £50 per week, depending on the size of the storage unit.
- Insurance: While many removal companies include a basic level of insurance in their quoted price, you may wish to take out additional cover, especially if you have valuable or sentimental items. The cost of additional insurance will depend on the value of your belongings but expect to pay between £10 to £100 extra.
Calculating Cost by Distance Calculations
The cost of moving house can significantly increase depending on the distance of the relocation. Many removal companies charge a base fee for local moves (typically within 50 miles), with an additional cost per mile for longer distances. Here is a general table to illustrate the potential costs associated with distance:
| Distance | Additional Cost |
|---|---|
| 0-50 miles | £0-£50 |
| 51-100 miles | £50-£100 |
| 101-200 miles | £100-£200 |
| 200+ miles | £200+ |
Keep in mind these are general figures and the exact costs can vary depending on various factors such as the size of the move, the time of year, and the specific removal company.
Tips on Keeping Removal Costs Down
House removal can be a costly business, but there are several strategies you can use to keep costs to a minimum:
- De-clutter: The more you move, the more it costs. Take the opportunity to sort through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need or use.
- Book in Advance: Removal companies often offer better rates if you book well in advance. Try to start looking for a removal company several weeks before your move.
- Avoid Peak Times: Costs can be higher at certain times of the year, especially during summer, weekends, and bank holidays. If possible, try to move during off-peak times.
- Pack Yourself: While it can be time-consuming, packing your own items can save a significant amount of money.
- Compare Quotes: Get quotes from several removal companies and compare not only the prices but also what’s included in the service. The cheapest quote might not necessarily offer the best value for money.
Can I Move House Myself to Save Money
In short, yes. Moving house yourself is always an option if you’re looking to save money, however, it doesn’t come without its challenges. You’ll likely need to rent a van, and doing all of the heavy lifting yourself can be a real challenge, albeit cheaper.
Moving heavy furniture and boxes is physically demanding, and it can be a risky endeavour if you’re not used to heavy lifting and strain. Secondly, packing items securely so they survive the journey is a skill in itself, and poor packing could lead to damaging your furniture.
Conclusion
While moving house can seem a daunting and expensive task, having a clear understanding of the cost can help make the process smoother and less stressful. Bear in mind that prices can vary based on location, time of the year, and the complexity of the move, so it’s always a good idea to get several quotes and compare services, and don’t forget to account for any potential additional costs.
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best one. Quality service, reliability, and peace of mind are invaluable when moving your cherished belongings. Always consider the reputation and reviews of the removal company you choose, to ensure a smooth and efficient move to your new home.
