Comprehensive Guide to Moving Costs in the UK (2026 Edition)
Moving house is widely cited as one of life's most stressful events, rivaling divorce and starting a new job. In 2026, the financial landscape of moving has evolved, with inflation impacting fuel, labor, and material costs. Understanding the full scope of potential expenses is crucial to avoiding a budget shortfall on moving day.
This guide breaks down every penny you are likely to spend, from the obvious removal van fees to the often-overlooked administrative costs like mail redirection and utility setup fees. Whether you are moving a single-bedroom flat in Manchester or a 5-bedroom detached home in Surrey, our data-driven analysis will help you plan effectively.
1. Removal Company Costs
The largest single expense in your moving budget will typically be the physical transportation of your goods. Prices in 2026 have stabilized somewhat but remain high due to fuel and wage pressures.
Local Moves (Under 50 miles)
For a local move, you are paying primarily for the loading and unloading labor.
- 1 Bedroom Flat: £300 - £500
- 3 Bedroom House: £600 - £1,000
- 5 Bedroom House: £1,200+
Long Distance Moves (50+ miles)
Once you cross the 50-mile threshold, mileage charges kick in heavily. Expect to pay a base rate plus £1.50 - £2.50 per mile. A move from London to Edinburgh, for example, can easily cost upwards of £2,000 for a standard family home.
2. Man and Van vs. Professional Removals
One of the biggest decisions to make is the level of service you require. This choice can swing your budget by hundreds of pounds.
Man and Van: Ideal for students, flat shares, or small 1-2 bed properties. You typically get a transit or Luton van and one driver. You are often expected to help with lifting.
Cost: £40 - £70 per hour. Total typical cost: £200 - £450.
Professional Removal Service: Necessary for 3+ bedroom homes or if you have high-value items (pianos, antiques). They provide a team (2-4 people), insurance, floor protection, and often wardrobe boxes.
Cost: Fixed quote, typically £800 - £1,500+.
3. Packing Materials and Services
Do not underestimate the cost of cardboard. In 2026, paper pulp prices mean boxes are an investment.
- Self-Packing: You buy the materials. A kit for a 3-bed house (40 boxes, tape, bubble wrap, marker pen) costs between £80 and £120.
- Professional Packing Service: The movers come the day before and pack everything for you. This reduces breakage risk and insurance claims but costs a premium. Expect to pay an additional £250 - £600 depending on the volume of "bric-a-brac".
4. Storage Costs
If your chains don't align perfectly, you may need temporary storage.
- Container Storage: Your goods are loaded into a wooden crate and warehoused. Approx £15 - £25 per week per crate (250 cu ft).
- Self Storage: A lockable room at a facility like Big Yellow or Safestore. A 100 sq ft room (enough for a 2-3 bed house) costs £200 - £400 per month, though intro offers often give 50% off the first 8 weeks.
5. Administrative and Utility Fees
The "death by a thousand cuts" part of moving. These small fees add up quickly.
Royal Mail Redirection
Essential to prevent identity fraud and losing bills.
Costs (2026):
- 3 Months: ~£39.50 per surname
- 6 Months: ~£54.00 per surname
- 12 Months: ~£79.00 per surname
Utility Connections & Cancellations
- Broadband: Setup fees for new lines often range from £30 to £60. If you are leaving a contract early, exit fees can be hefty (remaining months of contract).
- TV Licence: Transferring is free, but ensure you don't double pay.
- Council Tax: There is often an overlap period where you are liable for both properties for a few days.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
If you are renting, you likely need a professional End of Tenancy clean to secure your deposit.
Cost: £150 - £300 depending on size and carpet condition.
If you are selling, a "broom clean" is expected, but you might pay for a professional deep clean of your new home before unpacking.
Carpet Cleaning: £30 per room.
7. Money Saving Tips for 2026
Moving is expensive, but there are ways to mitigate the damage to your bank account:
- Declutter Ruthlessly: Removal costs are based on volume. If you don't take it, you don't pay to move it. Sell items on Vinted, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace before getting quotes.
- Avoid Fridays: Friday is the busiest day for completions. Moving on a Tuesday can sometimes save you 15-20% on removal fees.
- Source Free Boxes: Ask local supermarkets for banana boxes (they are strong) or check local community groups for people who have just moved and want to get rid of their boxes.
- Compare Utility Deals: Treat the move as a reset button. Don't just transfer your existing energy or broadband deal—compare the market for new customer offers.