Each year approximately 200,000 people move from elsewhere in the UK to London, while only 25,000 relocate in the opposite direction. Additionally, the pandemic saw a 165% rise in people moving house in the capital.
This high volume of relocations makes the city a thriving hub for top-tier removal companies. So, whether you're navigating narrow Victorian streets or high-rise apartments, seeking large or local removal companies, we've curated a list that will ease your London move.
Our picks for the top 10 best removal companies are:
- Finest Van
- AnyVan
- All Movers
- London Man Van | LMV TRANSPORT LTD
- Vertigo Transport Ltd
- The Yellow Van Company
- Alexanders Group
- The London Removal Company
- Pickfords
- Fantastic Services
How much do removals cost in London?
Everyone would like to save money if they can, and this extends to moving house. In London, removal costs vary based on the size of your living space and the complexity of the move.
For smaller settings like a one-bedroom flat, you can expect starting costs around £420, covering essential services. However, this can increase with additional options like full packing services or secure storage.
Moving a 3-bedroom home in London typically costs about £880, including basic packing, heavy lifting, and transport.
For larger properties, like a 4-bedroom house, costs can reach approximately £1,800, reflecting the need for more resources and services.
Keep in mind that these are average estimates and actual costs for removal can differ based on factors like distance, property accessibility, and any extra services required.
So, before you choose a removal company, ensure you compare quotes to get the best value for your specific needs.
Why hire a professional removal company?
Hiring a professional removal company offers numerous advantages, especially for those moving home in the beehive of London.
First and foremost, these companies can provide a stress-free experience, handling all aspects of the move, from packing to heavy lifting. This is particularly valuable for moving fragile items, ensuring they are transported safely and securely.
Professional movers are highly trained and have the necessary expertise to navigate the complexities of a London move, whether it's dealing with narrow streets or high-rise buildings.
They also offer a range of additional services, like storage solutions and full packing services, which can be incredibly helpful if you're juggling multiple responsibilities while moving home.
What's more, using a removal company can significantly reduce the cost of moving. They often have the right equipment storage facilities and manpower to complete the move more efficiently, saving you both time and money.
Moreover, many provide insurance. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are protected throughout the moving process.
Comparing removal companies – Key considerations for a successful move
- Read reviews – Investigate the experiences of previous clients to gauge the quality of moving services offered. This will provide insights into how well the company handles tasks like packing fragile items and their overall efficiency.
- Ask for a quote – Request instant quotes from various moving companies and compare costs. This will help you find the best deal and understand the cost of moving.
A comprehensive quote should include all potential removal costs, such as storage options and extra services, if needed. - Check their insurance – Ensure the moving company has adequate insurance. This is crucial for protecting your belongings during the move, especially if you are moving overseas or have valuable items.
- Packing potential – Assess if the company offers a full packing service. Some companies provide cost-effective packing solutions, which can be particularly beneficial for office removals or when moving homes with numerous items.
- Look for red flags – Avoid local removal companies with sparse reviews or unclear contact information.
On the other hand, a removal company worth hiring will have transparent communication and a clear commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. - Certifications and associations – Check if the company is a member of the British Association of Removers or other recognised bodies. This can be an indicator of a highly trained team and adherence to industry standards.
- Pre move survey – A thorough pre-move survey can be a sign of a company's dedication to providing tailored services.
This step is essential for accurately estimating moving costs and planning for specific needs like heavy lifting or handling fragile items. - Consider other services – When assessing removal companies, be sure to explore the range of services, such as self-storage or assistance with settling into your new home.
These can make your moving day more manageable and ensure a smooth transition.
By considering these factors, you can select a removal company meets your specific needs, and make your house move as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Right, now we've covered the basics, let's dive into our picks for the best removal companies in London!
1. Finest Van
Founded: 2009
HQ: Reedworth St, London SE11 4PE
Trustpilot score: 5/5 (839 reviews)
Price: Free quote
Our pick for the best removals service is none other than Finest Van. This family-run business
has cemented itself as one of the most reliable removal companies in London. This is thanks to their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and great service. Finest Van brings a personal touch to their professional services, which include local removals in London and cross-country courier services.
As their perfect review score testifies, Finest Van's experienced and highly trained staff work diligently to ensure every package is handled with care and reaches its destination safely and securely.
With a fleet of clean, fully-equipped vans, Finest Van offers a reliable, hassle-free experience at affordable prices, always prioritising the customer's schedule and needs.
Their impressive track record is backed by numerous positive reviews, highlighting their dedication to providing a friendly yet professional service. When it comes to local removals companies, you can't find better than Finest Van!
Services
- Apartment / flat moves
- House moves
- Bungalow
- Office removal
- Rubbish clearance
- Storage
2. AnyVan
Founded: 2009
HQ: Hammersmith Grove, London W6 0LG
Trustpilot: 4.6 (133,431 reviews)
Price: Free quote
AnyVan calls itself the UK's favourite delivery, and it's easy to see why. With thousands of positive reviews, they're fast becoming one of London's go-to removal companies.
Unlike Finest Van, which specialises in local removals and courier services, AnyVan offers a broader spectrum of removals solutions. This versatility makes them suitable for diverse moving needs.
At the core of AnyVan's operations is a deep commitment to customer satisfaction. Their team of experienced and highly trained professionals ensures that every item, whether part of a residential move or an office relocation, is handled with utmost care and delivered safely.
Their fleet is equipped to manage various types of moves, ensuring reliability and a hassle-free experience. Praised in customer reviews for their quality service and affordability, AnyVan excels in adapting to different moving requirements, making them a favoured choice for Londoners seeking efficient, professional moving solutions.
Services
- House removals
- Large furniture delivery
- Car transport
- Storage
- Packing materials
- Piano transport
- Ebay Deliveries
- Motorbike transport
3. All Movers
HQ: Esher Gardens, London, Sw19 6BZ
Trustpilot score: 5/5 (525 reviews)
Price: From only £10
A dark horse in our picks for the top removal companies in London, All Movers has distinguished itself with its reliable, no-nonsense, and very affordable solutions.
Renowned for their man and van service, they expertly handle furniture collections, including items from IKEA, eBay, and Gumtree, making them a go-to for smaller, more personal moves.
Particularly favoured by students or individuals with fewer belongings, All Movers offers a friendly and efficient service. Their experienced drivers add to the ease of the moving process.
Customer testimonials frequently praise All Movers for their exceptional service, highlighting their affordable pricing, superb communication, and overall customer-friendly approach, making them a popular choice among those seeking reliable and personalised moving services in London
Services
- Man and van
- Furniture collections
- IKEA, Ebay, Gumtree collections
- Student moves
- Medium moves
4. London Man Van | LMV TRANSPORT LTD
Founded: 2004
HQ: Wenlock Rd, London N1 7GU
Trustpilot score: 4.4/5 (1,182 reviews)
Price: Wide range of options, from: £50 per hour for a small van/1 man to £90 per hour for a Luton van/2 men
Next up in the top removal companies in the UK's capital is London Man Van. They've grown into a reliable and esteemed moving company in London, known for its professional removal services.
Their offerings aren't only affordable but also come with the assurance of quality, as evidenced by an excellent customer satisfaction rating based on thousands of reviews.
The company prides itself on its team of professionals, handpicked for their dedication and skill in handling all aspects of moving. They ensure punctuality and prioritise safety in every job, emphasising their commitment to delivering top-notch moving services.
This removal company extends its expertise beyond just man and van services. They are well-equipped to manage the safe transport of furniture, electronic equipment, and even sensitive archives, making them a versatile choice for various moving needs.
Additionally, they offer helpful services like disassembling and assembling furniture, catering to both individual and corporate clients. With options for fixed price or hourly rates and the convenience of online booking and payment, London Man Van makes the moving process smooth and hassle-free for their clients.
Services
- Man with a Van
- House removals
- Office removals
- Nationwide removals
- European removals
- Delivery service
- Small van
- Medium van
- Large van
- Extra large van
- Luton van
- Box shop tools
5. Vertigo Transport Ltd
Founded: 2007
HQ: Oxgate Lane, London, NW2 7FT
Trustpilot score: 4.9/5 (562 Reviews)
Price: Free instant quotes
Vertigo Transport Ltd is one of the most successful removals companies in the UK's capital. Their highly experienced and professional team cater to a wide range of moving needs across London.
With a 4.9-star referral rate, their commitment to making each move stress-free and straightforward is evident in the positive feedback from customers who often recommend their services to friends and family.
Whether for residential or commercial clients, Vertigo Transport offers flexible, bespoke services, underlining their adaptability and customer-centric approach.
The removal company excels in a variety of services including packing, collecting, loading, storing, delivering, and unpacking for both homes and businesses. They also provide essential packing supplies, and their international removals and overseas shipping services cover the full scope of needs for a smooth relocation process.
This range of services is backed by an exceptional team, including Move-Managers, Foremen, Drivers, Packers, and Porters, who meticulously plan and organise every detail of the moving process.
Such comprehensive expertise reinforces their reputation for quality and ability in both domestic and international moves.
Services
- Home removals
- Business moves
- Storage
- Packing & Moving Services
- International removals
- Overseas moving/shipping
6. The Yellow Van Company
Founded: 2012
HQ: Bizspace Building, 8 Lombard Road, London, SW19 3TZ
Trustpilot score: 4.7/5
Price: Free instant quote
A professional London removal company that offers both business and domestic removals. The Yellow Van Company offers a variety of removal services to suit your needs. With a keen interest in providing top-quality customer service, the Yellow Van Company offers customer service from their London-based call centre within business hours.
Their booking service can be done via the phone, or it can be done online, with an instant quote for your convenience, allowing for a stress-free moving experience.
They also provide a range of storage services, from 25 sq ft units to 150 sq ft units, for a reasonable monthly cost. If you're planning a move but need to store your belongings in the interim, the Yellow Van Company have you covered. They also sell a range of boxes, tapes, and protection for packing your goods, saving you the hassle of finding them yourself.
Providing stellar service within London, the Yellow Van company can also provide services to the rest of the UK. With a collection of moving vans to choose from and an in-depth quote generation, you can be sure to find the right kind of service to suit your needs.
Services
- Man and van
- Business removals
- Domestic removals
- Insured
- Storage services
- Timely and quick service
7. Alexanders Group
HQ: Unit 1 Chase Road Trading Estate, 51 Chase Road, London, NW10 6LG
Trustpilot score: 4.8/5
Price: Free online quote
Based in North London, Alexanders Group is an award-winning removals and storage company. With a highly-experienced and professional team, they are a removal company that can expertly pack up your belongings for you and send them wherever they need to go, even internationally.
This accredited business is one of the top removal companies in the UK, providing stress-free service that lets them handle all the packing and paperwork, letting you relax.
From homes to businesses and even schools. Alexanders can securely and confidently move whatever you need. They adhere to moving everything promptly, and without delay, ensuring that any business downtime is minimal.
Alexanders Group is an award-winning team that prides itself on its fantastic service and expert staff. Every detail of your move is planned out fully, ensuring that your move will go seamlessly and without delay. If you want a reliable removals company with amazing service, then consider Alexanders Group.
Services
- Home removals
- Packing Services
- Antiques removals
- Piano removals
- Office and commercial removals
- School removals and relocations
- Hotel removals
- IT relocation
- International relocations
- Self-storage
8. The London Removal Company
Founded: 2000
HQ: London
Trustpilot score: 4.2/5
Price: Free quote
This London removals company offers a wide array of services to suit their customer's needs. This reputable business guarantees that your belongings will be handled carefully throughout the entire move.
This family-run removals company offers services from basic packing and transport to fragile packing and storage, the London Removals Company has been in the business since 2000 and offers a wealth of experience to their clients. Primarily operating in the London area, they are a family-run business that provides removals locally, nationally, and internationally.
With their wealth of knowledge, the London Removal Company can handle anything from boxed goods to furniture and fragile goods. Their team of expert movers will ensure that all your belongings are kept safe and secure during the move. Their removal teams even offer unpacking services.
Services
- Domestic moves
- Man & van
- Office moves
- Packing services
- International removals
- Storage
9. Pickfords
HQ: Genesis House, Home Park, Kings Langley, WD4 8LZ
Trustpilot score: 4.8/5
Price: Free quote
Dating back to 1646, Pickfords is a specialist removals company based in London. Having won the 'International Moving Company of the Year' at the 2023 EMMAS, this business offers high-quality removal services all across the UK. Whether you are looking to move locally or across the country,
Pickfords provides a friendly and efficient service that promises to securely move your belongings, offering a range of professional services. They have remained as a key player in the removal industry since they were founded.
Pickfords also offers international relocation through their global network of transport vehicles. Their team of move managers and removal experts will make sure your belongings are all moved without delay to wherever in the world they need to be.
With locations all over the UK, Pickfords can quickly reach wherever you are based and give you the service you need. For bigger moves, Pickfords also offers Pickfords Gold, a more in-depth service that will provide you with an on-site move manager on the day of the move, and they will meet any unique packing requirements depending on what needs to be moved.
Services
- UK home moving
- International moving
- Business moving
- Storage
10. Fantastic Services
Founded: 2009
Trustpilot: 4.4/5
Price: Free quote
Fantastic Services is a business that offers a range of home and garden services to suit whatever you might need. They offer removal and moving services, as well as providing 'man with a van' options and storage facilities for your convenience. Whether you are moving around London, or anywhere else in the UK, Fantastic Services has it handled.
Fantastic Services stands out by offering a wide range of options, from gardening, trades, and odd jobs, to landscaping. If you are looking for a business that can offer more than just removals and packing, then this might be the business for you! With packing and unpacking options, they are sure to make your move day seamless and stress-free.
They also pride themselves on being eco-friendly and are aiming to be carbon neutral by 2030. They offer additional options to reduce CO2 offset, with the additional cost going to counteract emissions. With a focus on sustainability and planting trees, this company stands out by putting the environment first.
Services
- Home removals
- Office removals
- Man and van
- Packing
- Storage
- Furniture collection and delivery
- Furniture assembly and disassembly
- International removals
- Moving supplies
- Furniture disposal
Before picking a removal company—compare, contrast, and seek advice
In wrapping up our exploration of the top removal companies in London, it's important to remember that the ideal choice depends on your specific needs. This could be moving to a cosy studio apartment, transitioning an entire office, home removals, or even relocating internationally.
The value of sound advice from an experienced team cannot be overstated. They can guide you on the best price, guide you on how to allocate your money effectively, help you compare removal companies, and ensure that you get the best services without overextending your budget.
Choosing a removals company that offers quality packing materials is also key, as it directly impacts the safety and integrity of your belongings during the move. Remember, the process and cost of moving a house encompasses not just the physical transfer of items but also the careful handling of your cherished possessions.
A friendly, understanding and efficient removal service can significantly lessen the stress of moving, making the transition to your new home or office a more enjoyable and less daunting experience.
With the right removal company, your move to London can be as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Remember, always compare removal quotes to get the best deal available.
Good luck and happy moving!
HOLD will ensure a smooth interaction between you and your chosen removal company
Located in King's Cross London, HOLD is a next-gen storage company that puts your needs first. We have top-notch security, 24/7 access, and premier business rooms.
And while we don't offer a removals service per say, our team will liaise with your chosen removal company, ensuring your items are delivered in a timely and careful fashion. And that's not all - we also throw in a free move-in zip-car rental.
With HOLD as your storage partner, home owners have more time for home renovation, and students can focus on their studies knowing their items are carefully stored.
Reach out to us today for a free quote.
Download our moving house checklist
Need help getting rid of clutter before the move? Download our free moving house checklist.
DOWNLOAD
Frequently asked questions
Does HOLD offer removal services?
No, but HOLD does offer storage solutions. HOLD has storage units ranging from 10 sq ft to 300 sq ft. The storage units provide plenty of security and safety for storing your belongings in a secure facility.
HOLD also provides a free Zipcar, which you can use to transport your goods to HOLD self-storage.
What is the average cost of a removal company in the UK?
According to Checktrade. A rough estimate is between £50-£80 an hour. This includes two removal professionals and a van. The total cost of moving a house is usually between £500-£700, though this can vary greatly depending on how much they need to move.
If you want to include a packing service, you could be looking at another £400 on top of the moving fee. It is good to get a fixed quote from the business you hire, so there won't be any additional unexpected fees.
How far in advance should I book a removal company?
You should aim to book 4-6 weeks in advance when hiring a removal company. Booking as early as possible gives you more time to prepare for your move and time to amend your quote if needed.
Booking in advance also lets you pick a time that suits you and lets you plan around the scheduled move date. Some removal companies can be booked as late as a week in advance or possibly even later.
Can you travel with a man with a van?
Yes, most moving vans have a spare seat for transport. If you don't have your own transport on the day of the move, let the company know and they will be sure to provide it. As most vans have at least 3 seats, it is standard to provide transport.
If you have more than one person needing transport, then let the company know beforehand, as some removal companies have vans with more seats, and transport could still be provided.
