Understanding the true cost of moving house helps you budget properly and avoid nasty surprises. Here's a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2026.
Removal Company Costs
The cost of hiring professional movers depends on several factors:
| Move Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-bed flat (local) | £300 – £500 |
| 2-bed house (local) | £500 – £800 |
| 3-bed house (local) | £800 – £1,200 |
| 4-bed house (local) | £1,200 – £1,800 |
| Long-distance (100+ miles) | Add £200 – £500 |
These prices typically include loading, transport, and unloading. Packing services, furniture disassembly, and storage cost extra.
Tanoli Moving tip: We offer competitive fixed-price quotes with no hidden charges. Request a free quote to get an accurate price for your specific move.
Packing Materials
If you're packing yourself, budget for supplies:
- Moving boxes (pack of 20): £25 – £40
- Bubble wrap (large roll): £10 – £15
- Packing tape (3 rolls): £8 – £12
- Wardrobe boxes: £8 – £12 each
- Mattress bags: £5 – £10 each
Total packing materials for a 3-bed house: approximately £80 – £150.
Alternatively, our professional packing service takes care of everything, often at a lower total cost than buying materials and spending your own time.
Other Moving Costs
Beyond the removal van, there are several costs people often forget:
Conveyancing and Legal Fees
- Solicitor fees: £800 – £1,500
- Local authority searches: £250 – £450
- Land Registry fees: £45 – £910 (depends on property value)
Stamp Duty (England and Northern Ireland)
- £0 – £250,000: 0%
- £250,001 – £925,000: 5%
- £925,001 – £1,500,000: 10%
- Over £1,500,000: 12%
First-time buyers get relief on properties up to £425,000.
Surveys
- Homebuyer's report: £400 – £700
- Full building survey: £600 – £1,500
Other Costs
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): £60 – £120
- Removal insurance (if not included): £30 – £80
- Post redirection (Royal Mail): £33.99 for 3 months
- Storage (if needed): £80 – £200 per month
- Cleaning: £100 – £300 for deep clean
How to Reduce Moving Costs
- Move mid-week. Tuesday to Thursday moves are typically cheaper than weekends.
- Move in winter. January to March is the quietest period for removal companies.
- Declutter before you move. Less stuff means a smaller van and lower costs.
- Get multiple quotes. Always compare at least three removal companies.
- Book early. Last-minute bookings cost more.
- Do your own packing. If you have the time, this is the easiest saving.
Total Cost Summary
For a typical 3-bedroom house move within the same city:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Removal company | £800 – £1,200 |
| Packing materials | £80 – £150 |
| Post redirection | £34 |
| Deep clean | £150 – £250 |
| Total (removal only) | £1,064 – £1,634 |
Add solicitor fees, stamp duty, and surveys if you're buying, and the total can reach £5,000 – £15,000 depending on the property value.
Planning a move? Contact Tanoli Moving for an accurate, obligation-free quote tailored to your needs.