What a moving company price actually covers
The price is an estimate of working time and the agreed scope. Compare quotes only when they include the same things: carrying, transport, packing, furniture assembly, boxes and cleaning are often listed separately.
Send the property details in the moving calculator or the order form. Missing details can be clarified before moving day.
1. Volume decides the van and the hours
Floor area is only a starting point. A sparse three-room flat can be faster than a full two-room home with a storage cage, a balcony and a wall of books.
- home size and number of rooms
- large furniture
- an estimate of boxes
- storage, cellar, attic or garage contents
- items that do not fit a standard box
2. Floors and the lift change the carrying
A building with a lift and a building without one are different jobs. Lift size decides how much goes up in one trip, and whether a sofa has to use the stairs.
- floor at both addresses
- whether there is a lift
- whether the lift can be reserved
- stairs, thresholds or tight turns on the route
3. Carry distance starts at the parking spot
Carry distance continues from the door to the van. A courtyard, a gate or a full street can add time to every trip. Check the nearest loading place and any gate codes before the day.
4. Driving is only one part of the price
A short drive does not make a move quick if packing and carrying take the hours. Share both addresses so travel sits next to the carrying work in the plan.
5. Date and start time affect how the day is built
Tell us the preferred date early, and mention housing-company rules about moving hours. If the day must finish by a certain time, say so in the request.
6. Packing can be yours or part of the service
Packing yourself saves paid time only when boxes are actually ready and labelled. A packing service can cover the whole home or only fragile items. Read more about packing.
7. Assembly and removal change the scope
Beds and shelves may need to come apart to fit through doors. Reassembly and removal of unwanted items should be agreed before the day, not decided in the stairwell.
8. Special items need their own plan
A piano, safe, large mirror or unusually heavy piece may need extra protection or another pair of hands. Mention them in the first message. See also special items.
Details that make the estimate more accurate
- both addresses or postcodes
- size and a volume estimate
- floors and lifts at both ends
- carry distance and loading access
- preferred date and any deadline
- packing, dismantling or cleaning needs
- storage contents and special items, with measurements
Ask for an estimate with your own details
Use the moving calculator or get in touch. Share what you already know — the rest can be clarified before moving day.