London Local Moving Cost Guide (2025 Prices)

Here is a detailed overview of typical costs for local removals in London, based on property size, with pricing information sourced from leading London moving firms in 2025.

Property Size Average Cost (£) Typical Move Time
Studio Apartment £80 - £200 1-3 hours
1 Bedroom Apartment £150 - £250 2-3 hours
2 Bedroom Home £200 - £350 2-4 hours
3 Bedroom Home £350 - £550 4-6 hours
4 Bedroom Home £900 - £1,300 8-10 hours
5+ Bedroom Home £1,300 - £1,800+ 10+ hours

Hourly Rates for van hire with driver in London

Moving services in London typically charge by the hour, with rates depending on the number of movers and the size of the van provided. Here's what you can expect to pay for different team configurations in 2025.

Small Van, 1 man

£20 - £50 per hour

Best for studio, student moves.

Large Van, 1 man

£35 - £80 per hour

Best for 1-2 bedroom flats

Luton Van, 2 men

£55 - £130 per hour

Best for 2-4 bedroom homes

What impacts moving costs in London?

  • Distance of the move, costs increase with greater distances.
  • Requiring services like packing, furniture dismantling, or storage will also increase the overall cost.
  • Moves during peak hours, such as weekdays or summer months, are typically more expensive.
  • Special items requiring extra handling (pianos, antiques)
  • Parking availability at both locations

In 2025, our average hourly rates for our man and van service in London ranged from £20 to £130 per hour. Prices vary depending on factors like van size, how many helpers you need, and where you're moving.

London Moving Costs by Region – Your Guide to Local Movers

Moving costs in London can vary widely depending on the region you're relocating to or from. Below is a breakdown of typical cost factors and logistical challenges by area, to help you better understand what to expect when hiring a local movers in London

London Region Traffic Access Parking Cost Factor
Central London Heavy Difficult Very limited Higher than average
North London Moderate Variable Generally fair Average
East London Busy Often difficult Limited in places Higher than average
South London Moderate Mixed Mostly manageable Average
West London Busy Variable Often restricted Higher than average
Outer London Suburbs Light–Moderate Generally good Mostly available Lower than average

London-Specific Moving Challenges

  • Central London (Zones 1–2): Congestion charges apply. Very limited parking, red routes, and strict loading times. Many buildings are conversions with narrow stairs and no lifts.
  • East London (Shoreditch, Hackney, Stratford): Tight streets, limited parking, and flats above shops or in older buildings with difficult access.
  • North London (Islington, Camden, Barnet): Mixed access with steep driveways and tree-lined streets. Some areas restrict large van entry.
  • South London (Brixton, Clapham, Croydon): Varies by area. Maisonettes and multiple staircases are common. Parking generally more available but still regulated.
  • West London (Kensington, Hammersmith, Ealing): Heavy traffic and limited street parking. Older properties often have restricted access and narrow entryways.
  • Outer London Suburbs (Harrow, Bromley, Kingston): Easier access, wider roads, and better parking. Longer travel times may increase cost slightly.

Additional moving service Costs in London

Service / Situation ~ Cost Notes
Stairs £5–£25 Per flight of stairs per person
Long Carry £10–£20 For distances over 30 metres from the van to your door.
Upright Piano Move £60–£150 Depends on access and complexity.
Grand Piano Move £100–£200 Requires a specialist mover with experience.
Parking Permit £27–£80 If required by the local council. Best arranged in advance.
Storage Charges £15–£50+ per night Short-term or overnight storage needs.
Weekend or Bank Holiday Surcharge 10–10% Higher rate applies during non-standard days.
Packing Services £35–£80 per hour Per packer, not including materials.
Packing Materials £120–£400 Depends on the size of your property and items.

Money-Saving Tips for London Moves

  • Move on a weekday: Avoid weekends and bank holidays to skip peak surcharges.
  • Book in advance: Last-minute bookings can be more expensive, especially at the end of the month.
  • Declutter before moving: Fewer items mean less time, a smaller van, and lower costs.
  • Disassemble furniture yourself: Save on disassembly fees by doing it before movers arrive.
  • Pack your own boxes: Doing your own packing can cut down on hourly labour costs.
  • Use recycled packing materials: Ask supermarkets or friends for spare boxes to avoid paying for new ones.
  • Check parking rules ahead of time: Avoid fines or delays by arranging any necessary permits with your local council in advance.
  • Be ready when the van arrives: Have everything packed and ready to load to minimise hourly charges.
  • Choose a local moving van service: Hiring someone based nearby may reduce travel or call-out fees.