A moving budget gives you insight into all the costs that await you. It helps you to avoid unforeseen expenses and to make the best choices for your move in 2024. We at Moving would like to help you with this. We take into account moving costs, moving expenses, hiring a moving company and the prices for dismantling furniture. In this article you will read about additional costs, possible costs and ways to save on the costs. We will also discuss whether you are entitled to a moving expenses allowance, when the house is demolished or renovated. You will discover how to compare quotes and which costs you should not forget when moving.
Total moving costs
Moving usually involves a lot of costs, such as renting a moving van, transportation costs, and also the costs for the moving company. Have you ever considered that by comparing moving costs you can sometimes save hundreds of euros? Perhaps you are wondering what extra costs or additional costs you will have to face when you move to a new home. Or perhaps you are unsure whether you are entitled to a moving cost allowance. In this article we will try to answer all your questions and take you step by step through a handy overview of the costs.
Cost items when moving
A moving budget maps out the costs of your move. This way you can immediately see which expenses you will have within your budget. budget must fit in. This budget consists of the total moving costs, such as movers, moving allowance from your landlord (if you are entitled to a moving allowance), costs of a move (such as man hours, moving boxes, and transportation costs) and costs for moving that arise during demolition or renovation. By listing all the items, you will quickly discover which components you want to outsource and where you can possibly save.
Please note additional costs
Think about packaging materials like boxes and foil. Ask yourself if you moving elevator need or can do without. Consider whether you need to arrange extra storage space. The amount of stuff also plays a role. Therefore, decide in advance which stuff you are taking with you. A move will be easier if you have fewer surplus items.
Moving costs: all costs at a glance
Transportation costs
Transportation costs are often the first expense you consider. You pay for renting a moving truck and for the necessary fuel. Sometimes transportation costs are added if you plan to drive across the country or if you rent a large moving truck. This price can vary depending on the distance and the size of the moving trucks.
Reduce transportation costs
If you want to move cheaply, you can choose to arrange a van yourself. Make sure you check the transport costs in advance and find out whether it would be better to hire a moving company. Professional movers often drive an efficient route and have suitable moving vans ready.
Costs of a moving company
A moving company often uses professional movers. They know exactly how to safely load and unload your belongings. A mover costs between €30 and €45 per hour on average. This rate increases if you purchase additional services. If you need dismantling work or a moving service where the team packs everything for you, there will be additional costs.
Make your move more affordable
We recommend that you request multiple quotes. You can do this very easily at Moving! This way you can clearly see which services are included. You may notice that some moving companies offer a total amount while others charge separate prices for labor and materials. Although a moving company may seem expensive, it often prevents stress and damage to your belongings.
How much does a move with a moving company cost in 2025?
An average move costs between €350 and €1400 if you hire a moving company. The total moving costs depend on various factors. Below you can see some examples.
- Small move (for one or 2 rooms): ~ €500
- Average move (3 or 4 rooms): ~ €700 to €1000
- Big move (5+ rooms): ~ €1200 to €1400
These numbers skyrocket if you have to pick up items from multiple locations or if the movers spend more time navigating difficult stairs or steep hallways. Also keep in mind that the costs for packing materials and storage costs can be charged separately. Are you entitled to a moving allowance? Then you will of course move a little cheaper because you will have fewer expected expenses yourself.
Moving expenses allowance: are you entitled to it?
In certain cases, you are entitled to a moving cost allowance. This usually occurs in the event of a forced relocation due to demolition or large-scale renovation. The landlord may then give you compensation in kind or in cash if the home is demolished or renovated. Always check your rental contract to see what it says about compensation. Those who are entitled to a moving cost allowance can sometimes receive thousands of euros. However, the amount of this moving cost allowance varies and often depends on municipal regulations.
Check with the municipality
Some municipalities also offer special assistance if you cannot pay for the move yourself. We recommend that you inquire with your municipality. Then you will quickly know whether you can cover part of the costs for your move through subsidies. In addition to the costs for the move, you should of course also look at the costs for new items if you need them. The costs for this are often also somewhat high.
Possible additional costs for your move
A move doesn’t just involve costs for the moving company. You can run into all sorts of additional costs. Sometimes you pay administration costs if you have your mail forwarded. Or you have to temporarily store your belongings in a storage space. You may be looking for new furniture for your new home. All of these expenses can affect the total amount.
You sometimes encounter extra costs if you do not arrange a good parking space in advance. Think of a moving day in the middle of the city center. Without a permit, the fine can be high. Therefore, make sure you plan everything in advance so that you avoid unpleasant surprises.
How much will your move cost? (step-by-step plan)
Step 1 – Take inventory of your belongings
Make a note of the items you are taking with you. Determine if you need moving boxes. Get rid of old clutter so that movers can spend less time moving. Less stuff often means lower transportation costs.
Step 2 – Request multiple quotes
Get a quote from at least three different moving companies. Compare their rates to see where you can save. Pay attention to the costs of a possible moving lift. Such a lift saves you from awkward situations in narrow stairwells. If you see that certain moves are outside your budget, you can tackle parts of the job yourself.
Step 3 – Make a clear plan
Set your moving day on a convenient date. This can be during the week so that a moving company or removalist does not charge extra for weekend rates. Also plan enough time for disassembly. Stacks of cabinets and sofas often take more time than you expect.
Step 4 – Reserve a buffer
Take into account unforeseen costs. Sometimes you have to pay extra costs if your moving truck gets damaged or if you need storage space at the last minute. A buffer of 10 to 15 percent is usually enough to cover unforeseen expenses.
Step 5 – Check your contracts and terms
Read the lease agreement of the new home carefully. Are you entitled to a moving cost compensation due to demolition or renovation? Is there a forced relocation? Then you may be able to get back part of the transport costs. Also check the policy of your home contents insurance. Sometimes this covers any damage you incur during the move.
How can you save on moving costs?
- Make the ride as short as possible: Minimize the distance between the old and new home.
- Divide the tasks: Invite friends to help unload so your movers can work fewer hours.
- Buy cheap moving boxes: Or ask the supermarket or your neighbors for sturdy boxes.
- Dismantle heavy items: A cabinet that has already been dismantled is easier to lift and prevents damage.
- Do not rent moving vans that are too big: Don't overestimate the amount. A truck that is too big can cost you money without you actually needing the space.
Case studies: two practical examples
Case study 1: moving a 2-room apartment
Iris moved from a two-room apartment to another neighborhood. She wanted to save money and decided to rent a smaller moving van herself. She bought cheap moving boxes at the hardware store and called on four friends to help her. The whole job was done in six hours. She paid €350 for the rental of the van, some petrol and a simple lunch for her helpers.
Sase study 2: family with a large household
A family with two children lived in a spacious single-family home. They decided to hire a moving company with four professional movers. This team included moving services, including taking apart beds and cabinets. This extra task naturally makes a move more expensive. In this case, the bill came to around €1400. Nevertheless, they were satisfied because they didn't have to do much themselves and because the job was done in one moving day.
Conclusion: what you need to take into account
Plan your move carefully because a sharp budget for moving prevents many headaches. Note all costs in advance and take a good look at who you need. Do you get a moving allowance if the house is demolished or renovated? Check whether you are entitled to a moving allowance and use that money wisely. Keep an eye on the possible costs for moving, such as the purchase of new furniture or packaging materials.
“Good preparation takes away stress and makes your new place feel like a real home” – Team Moving
You can always encounter unforeseen setbacks. Think of scheduling problems or items that don't fit in your van. By starting early and estimating all the costs of a move, you can better anticipate these kinds of awkward situations.
Moving is happy to help you!
We at Moving help you with a clear overview of the costs. We tell you exactly what you need to take into account. We are ready for you if you want to compare quotes or if you have a quote to request for our services. Feel free to ask a moving company from our team and experience that professional movers save time and stress. Our goal is to make your move as smooth as possible.
Please feel free to contact us
Do you have questions about moving expenses, moving or additional matters that entail costs? Then contact us. We will be happy to find out whether you are eligible for compensation or special assistance. We are here for you because we know that moving can cause worries in addition to a fresh start.
Avoid noise and start well prepared. With the right planning, a move will cost less time and money than you might think. Good luck with your move and have fun in your new home!
