How Much Does a House Move in London Cost in 2025?

The Budget Question Every Londoner Asks

Moving house in London can feel like a never-ending to-do list soaked in bubble wrap and stress. Just when you’ve picked a new postcode and packed your last drawer of mystery cables, the question hits: how much is this actually going to cost me? Spoiler: it’s not just van hire and takeaway pizza for the movers.

At Rad Removals and Storage, we’ve handled everything from tiny flat hops to three-storey family home relocations, so we know the numbers — and we know the tricks. This guide will break down what you should expect to spend, what can increase your bill, and how to avoid paying more than necessary. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or side-stepping into the next borough, here’s what to budget for your 2025 move.

What’s the Average Cost of a House Move in London in 2025?

Let’s start with the honest answer: it depends. The average London move in 2025 will cost anywhere between £600 and £3,000, depending on the size of your home, how far you’re going, and whether you’re hiring full packing services. For a three-bedroom home, expect to pay around £1,200–£2,500, which includes professional movers, a large van, disassembly and reassembly of furniture, and a full day of sweating the small stuff.

If you’re moving from a 1-bed flat, you could land closer to £600–£900, while larger family homes with lots of packing needs or complicated access can stretch past the £3,000 mark (especially if storage or overnight options are involved).

RAD’s moving quotes always reflect real-time logistics, not guesswork. We factor in your volume, packing needs, parking, stairs or lifts, and how many hours your move will take — and yes, we still provide free quotes so you can plan confidently.

What Factors Affect Your Moving Cost the Most?

Here’s the fine print — or rather, the stuff that decides whether your quote sits at the lower or higher end of the range.

• Distance: A move within Ealing vs one to the outskirts of Greater London will obviously cost differently.
  
• Access: No lift? Long walk from the van to the door? Tight staircases? These all add time (and occasionally extra muscle).
  
• Packing Services: If you’d like us to pack everything for you (which many do), it adds to the price, but also saves you a significant amount of time and the hassle of broken dishes.
  
• Furniture Size and Assembly: Beds, wardrobes, IKEA marvels… the more you have, the longer it takes. RAD disassembles and reassembles furniture as standard — no extra charge.
  
• Day of the Week: While many movers charge extra for weekends or Fridays, RAD doesn’t hike prices between Monday and Saturday. We simply don’t work Sundays — everyone needs a break (even superheroes with trolleys).

Add-ons like storage, holding time, or help with clearing unwanted furniture may change your total, but we always break it down clearly. No sneaky surprises.

How Can You Save on Removal Costs in London?

Right, let’s talk smart saving. Moving in London doesn’t have to rinse your bank account — it just takes a bit of forward planning and a sprinkle of ruthlessness.

• Declutter first. The less you move, the less it costs. If you haven’t worn it, read it, or dusted it in a year, do you really want to pay to move it?
  
• Pack it yourself. Not everyone has time, but if you do — and you’re handy with a roll of tape — packing your own boxes can cut costs. Just don’t pack like a Tetris-obsessed raccoon. Use proper boxes and label everything.
  
• Move mid-month, if you can. Avoiding the end-of-month rush can save cash — though at Rad, our rates don’t spike just because it’s Friday or the 28th.
  
• Book early. Especially during spring and summer. The closer you book to the move date, the fewer slots there are — and the less chance of negotiating extras.
  
• Be flexible on timing. If you’re not in a chain or racing estate agents, moving mid-week, mid-month, mid-morning can give you more options — and potentially better deals.

Some people even borrow friends and vans — but that’s not always worth it. A bruised sofa, strained back, and broken mirror might end up costing you more than calling in the professionals.

What Are the Hidden or Unexpected Charges to Watch For?

Ah yes, the curveballs. These are the ones that sneak up on unsuspecting movers and turn a decent quote into an “oh no” moment.

• Parking fines. If you don’t arrange parking in advance, and your street’s tighter than a Victorian corset, you might get hit with fines or delays.
  
• Stair charges. Some companies charge per flight of stairs, per item. Rad doesn’t. We just get on with it.
  
• Overtime. Some days just don’t go to plan. Maybe the seller isn’t out on time, or the keys are late, or someone locked a cat inside the airing cupboard. At Rad, we charge £40+VAT per hour per person for overtime — but only if the delay isn’t on us.
  
• Dismantling fees. Got a big bed? Heavy wardrobe? Many movers will charge extra to take them apart. Not Rad — we do it as standard.
  
• Waiting time. Some firms charge if they’re kept waiting. At Rad, we build a fair grace period into your quote — because we know how unpredictable moving day can be.

We believe in transparency. That’s why every quote from Rad Removals comes with a breakdown, so you know what you’re paying and why.

Is It Cheaper to Hire a Van and Do It Yourself?

Yes… and no. If we’re talking pure numbers, then sure — hiring a van for £100, roping in a mate with strong knees and a questionable work ethic, and doing it all yourself can look cheaper on paper. But here’s the reality check:

• You’ll need to lift everything. Beds, wardrobes, sofas, mysterious filing cabinets from 1998.
  
• You’ll need to drive. Through London. In a long-wheelbase van. Through traffic. While stressed. And sweaty.
  
• You’ll need to load properly. One wrong stack, and your wine glasses become confetti.
  
• You’ll need to secure insurance, fuel, blankets, trolley, straps, and time off work.

Many DIY movers end up spending more by the end of it — not just money, but time, energy, and favours they can never repay. That’s why most Londoners eventually decide to call in the professionals. Or more specifically, Rad.

What About Insurance and Damage Protection?

This one’s important. Moving house is like Tetris meets Jenga on a trampoline. Things can (very rarely) go wrong, even with the best movers.

At Rad Removals, we carry goods-in-transit and public liability insurance as standard. That means your belongings are covered during the move, and so are you.

But not all removal firms are created equal — some don’t offer insurance, or they bury the fine print deeper than a time capsule. Always ask:

• What exactly is covered?
  
• What’s the claims process?
  
• Do I need extra insurance for high-value items?

And a quick tip: if you pack yourself, most removal companies won’t cover breakages inside boxes. If we pack for you — with our thick double-walled boxes and uncanny knack for bubble wrap origami — you’re fully covered.

Do I Have to Pay Upfront for a House Move?

Ah, the golden question. The short answer? Usually, yes — at least partially.

Most reputable removal companies in London (including Rad, of course) will ask for a deposit to secure your booking. This is typically refundable or transferable if you need to reschedule, especially if you give us decent notice.

Why the upfront payment?

• It locks in your date — especially important in peak season (summer, end-of-month Fridays, and yes, pre-Christmas chaos).
  
• It helps us plan the right team, van, and materials for your specific move.
  
• And let’s be honest, it keeps the ghosters at bay.

Full payment is usually expected before or on the day of the move. But don’t worry — we’re not the “take the cash and vanish” types. We’ve got uniforms, an office, dogs, and a BAR membership to prove it.

Is There a “Cheapest Day” or Time to Move?

Generally speaking, midweek moves (Tuesday to Thursday) tend to be more flexible and less in demand, especially when comparing them across the wider removals industry. Fridays and end-of-month dates are prime time and get booked up fast.

But here’s the Rad twist:

We don’t charge different rates for different weekdays. Monday to Saturday? All the same.
Sunday? We’re probably asleep or walking Toby the Retriever. Try again Monday.

So if you’re looking for a deal, you’re better off:

• Booking early (weeks in advance if possible)
  
• Being flexible with your timeslot
  
• Avoiding the summer rush or the December dash

And remember, sometimes the cheapest move isn’t the one with the lowest quote — it’s the one done efficiently, safely, and without needing a chiropractor after.

What Hidden Costs Should I Watch Out For?

Let’s pull back the curtain — removals shouldn’t be a magic trick full of surprise fees.

At Rad, we like our quotes like we like our vans: clear, tidy, and fully loaded. But elsewhere? You might stumble across:

• Stairs surcharge – Some companies charge extra per floor (seriously).
  
• Long carry fees – If parking’s a nightmare and the team has to trek 100m with your sofa.
  
• Waiting time charges – If you’re stuck waiting for keys during a chain move (some charge hourly).
  
• Packing materials – Not always included, and trust us, bubble wrap isn’t cheap.
  
• Disassembly/reassembly fees – Taking apart wardrobes, beds, or anything IKEA-born might come at a cost.

🔍 Pro Tip: Ask for an itemised quote. If the company flinches, that’s your sign.

At Rad? No surprises. Unless you count how much tea we can drink during one job on a hot day.

Can I Save Money By Decluttering First?

Yes. Emphatically, joyfully, yes.

Every drawer of unused wires, every wardrobe of “one day I’ll fit into this again” clothes, every half-broken lamp you’ve moved three times already — that’s time, van space, and lifting effort you’re paying for.

So, before you start packing:

• Donate or sell anything you haven’t used in a year.
  
• Call a clearance service (ahem… we do that too).
  
• Be ruthless. If it doesn’t spark joy or function, it doesn’t move.

Less stuff = smaller van, fewer hours, and one less mover. That’s real savings.

And hey, it feels great, like peeling off an old layer of life before starting fresh in your new place.

What’s the Cheapest Way to Move a House in London?

Moving in London isn’t cheap, and unless your cousin owns a fleet of vans and works for free, DIY isn’t always the budget-friendly dream it seems.

Here’s how the typical cheap options stack up:

• Hire a van and rope in some mates – works for students or single-room moves, not so much for families with bunk beds and antique dressers.
  
• Man and van – can be cost-effective, but often uninsured, underprepared, or just not have enough muscle for the job.
  
• Weekday moves – true, many companies offer discounts midweek (just not Rad, we charge the same Monday to Saturday).

The real cheapest way? Be organised, be honest about your inventory, and declutter before you book. Then get a proper company that doesn’t sneak in hidden charges or charge you £300 for a last-minute step ladder.

Rad will never promise to be the cheapest, but we will always be the best value.

What’s the Real Average Cost of a Removal Company in the UK?

Here’s where it gets a bit “it depends,” but we’ll give it to you straight:

• Studio or 1-bed flat: £250–£450 (van + 2 movers, no packing)
  
• 2-bed house: £700–£1,200 (with packing and disassembly)
  
• 3-bed house: £1,500–£2,500 (depends on access, volume, extras like storage)

Rad’s average? Around £1,200 for a full removal including professional packing and proper furniture handling.

Prices vary depending on:

• Distance between properties
  
• Number of stairs (yes, again)
  
• Parking availability
  
• Fragile or bulky items
  
• Last-minute bookings

And of course, if you need storage, clearance, or packing service, that’s additional — though we’ll always lay it out clearly, in human words, not removal riddles.

Should I Pay for Extra Insurance?

Let’s talk cover — and we don’t mean duvet sets. Removal insurance can be a tricky topic because every company has different levels baked into their service.

At Rad, we provide standard Goods in Transit insurance, which covers your items during transit. But if you’ve got a grand piano, Fabergé egg collection, or a sentimental antique bookshelf passed down since 1899… You might want more.

Ask yourself:

• What’s the total value of the items being moved?
  
• Will I sleep better knowing I’m covered against rare disasters (like a meteorite hitting the van)?
  
• Does my home insurance already include some form of removals coverage?

Extra insurance is like buying that little chocolate bar at the till — you won’t always need it, but when you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.

Can I Move House Without Hiring Professionals?

Sure, you can. People have been moving house for a long time before the Luton van. You’ll just need:

• A large enough vehicle
  
• A few mates with strong backs and no weekend plans
  
• Blankets, ties, boxes, tools, time, and a prayer

The truth? Yes, you can move without the pros, but it’ll take longer, cause more stress, and possibly result in broken items or a pulled muscle.

Professional movers exist because they’ve the gear, experience, and systems to make your move feel less like a tactical military operation and more like a smooth logistical ballet (complete with bubble wrap and tea breaks).

If you’ve got the means, hiring a house removals team like Rad isn’t just about moving stuff — it’s about moving smart.

What Happens If I Need to Cancel or Reschedule?

Life happens. Chains fall through, contracts stall, the cat disappears the day before the move — we get it.

At Rad Removals, flexibility is an integral part of our service. That’s why we offer:

• Free rescheduling with sufficient notice
  
• Refundable deposits if your move falls through
  
• A human on the other end of the line, not a form that ghosts you

We just ask for honesty and notice. The more time we have, the easier it is to reshuffle vans and team members without anyone losing out.

Last-minute cancellations may incur a charge, not because we’re villains, but because our teams were ready, packed, and had probably skipped breakfast.

Should I Tip My Movers?

Ah, the age-old question.

The answer? You’re not obliged, but it’s always appreciated.

If your movers went above and beyond — tackled five flights of stairs, navigated a double-parked street in Camden, or managed to get your granddad’s armchair through an impossibly narrow doorway — then a tip is a lovely gesture.

Some customers offer a flat £10–£20 per mover, while others provide snacks, lunch, or simply heartfelt thanks (and a glowing Google review — hint, hint).

At Rad, our guys don’t expect it, but they’ll always appreciate being appreciated.

How Far in Advance Should I Book My Move?

In a perfect world, you’d book your house removals company 4 to 6 weeks in advance — and they’d ride in on unicorns bearing bubble wrap and spreadsheets.

But in London, with chains wobbling and contracts crawling, reality is messier.

At Rad Removals, we recommend booking as soon as your dates are looking solid. That said, we regularly accommodate clients with as little as a few days’ notice. We’ve even had same-day panics — and somehow still pulled it off (cue heroic music).

Pro tip:
If you’re still waiting on exchange, we offer refundable holding deposits and flexible rescheduling to protect your date without locking you in. You get peace of mind, and we get a pencilled-in job — everyone wins.

Can Movers Help Settle Me Into the New House?

Absolutely — and we believe they should.

At Rad, our job doesn’t end at the front door. We’ll reassemble your furniture, unload items to the correct rooms, and even help unwrap and position key pieces so your home starts feeling like… well, home.

We’ve helped clients:

• Set up beds for the first night (because nobody should fumble with Allen keys at midnight)
  
• Rebuild wardrobes before the kids’ school uniforms need to be hung.
  
• Place sofas so they’re facing the telly instead of the radiator (don’t laugh, it happens)

Do you need us to take the boxes away? No problem. Want help with a post-move clear-out? We also offer a service for that.

Rad doesn’t just move stuff. We move people. And we want you to land happy.

What Questions Should I Ask Before Hiring a Removals Company?

You wouldn’t let someone babysit your cat without asking a few things first — so why trust a company with your entire household without a little grilling?

Here’s your essential checklist (and yes, Rad Removals passes with flying colours):

• Are you insured and BAR-registered?
  ✅ No, but we aspire to. We closely follow their code of conduct and attend their training sessions.
  
• Do you offer packing and storage?
  ✅ Absolutely. Whether it’s full-service packing, short-term storage or long-term solutions, we’re all in.
  
• Can I see real reviews?
  ✅ Google us. We’ve helped hundreds of Londoners move and live to tell the tale (often with emojis).
  
• How flexible is your booking policy?
  ✅ Life happens. We offer refundable holding deposits and flexible rescheduling when possible.
  
• What happens on moving day?
  ✅ We arrive on time, in uniform, with branded vans, quilted covers, and genuine tools. We dismantle, wrap, protect, label and deliver — like furniture whisperers.
  
• Do you do the lifting, or should I call my uncle Kevin?
  ✅ No Kevins needed. Sit down, have a biscuit. We’ve got this.

Ask questions. Trust your gut. And if in doubt, call Rad. We’re chatty and proud of it.