Have you ever thought about a career where no day is the same? Working as a mover offers exactly that. At Moving, we see people literally moving their lives every day. It is hard work, but also satisfying. A mover earns an average of between €2,500 and €3,500 gross per month. That may not sound spectacular, but the opportunities for growth make it interesting. In addition, you get new challenges every day. From a student room to an executive villa - every move tells a story.

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We will explain the moving job vacancies to you clearly

This guide will tell you everything you need to know. We will cover the salary mover 2025, what training you need and how you can grow into a foreman. Whether you are just starting out or already have experience – you will find answers to your questions here.

What is a mover? – everything about working as a mover

A mover is much more than someone who lifts boxes. We help people during one of the most stressful times in their lives. Moving evokes emotions. Some customers cry. Others are angry because they have to move. You make sure that their valuable belongings arrive safely.

What exactly does a mover do?

Movers are the backbone of the Dutch moving industry. Every year we help millions of people and companies with their move. The profession of mover has developed considerably in recent years. In the past, it was mainly about muscle power. Now customers ask for a complete service. Certified movers follow training and obtain certificates. They know how to pack fragile items. They can dismantle and rebuild furniture. And they treat customers who experience stress with respect.

A job as a mover

The trade association ensures good working conditions. This organization represents the interests of employees. They are committed to better salaries and safer working conditions. In addition, they stimulate continuous education in the moving profession. A modern mover combines physical strength with social skills. You are at the same time a handyman, psychologist and logistics expert. Every day requires competencies that go beyond just lifting.

What do you need to become a mover?

What exactly do you do as a mover? No day is the same as the previous one. Yet every move has the same basic steps.

Physical tasks form the basis:

Loading boxes and furniture according to a well thought-out system
Dams to make optimal use of the loading space
Disassembling furniture with the right tools
Installing equipment such as washing machines and dryers
Hanging lamps and artwork in the new location

Customer service is equally important:

Listening to specific customer wishes and ideas
Assess and understand what makes each move unique
Communicating well with customers during stressful moments
Provide advice on the best way to pack fragile items

Logistical responsibilities:

Planning and coordinating routes
Checking the quality of packed items
Process paperwork and complete documents
Maintain continuous contact with planning and colleagues

A mover must remain flexible above all. When it concerns larger removals or company removals, days can take longer. Then you need more knowledge of specialized techniques.

Different types of moves

The moving industry offers various specializations. Each has its own challenges and requires specific skills.

Type of move	Features	Special skills
Private removals	Houses, apartments	Social skills, patience
Company relocations	Offices, server rooms	Technical knowledge, planning
International removals	Cross-border	Documentation, customs knowledge
Art Removals	Antiques, works of art	Specialist packaging
Piano removals	Grand pianos, pianos	Technical assembly

For example, a successful commercial project move requires a coordinating role. The mover then becomes a project manager. This type of work offers useful experience for those who want to grow. Art moves are the most challenging. Moving a €50,000 painting requires perfect techniques. Piano moves are the most physically demanding. A grand piano can weigh 400 kilos and just fit through a door.

Is the profession of mover right for you? – have you ever thought about working as a mover?

Do you want to know if working as a mover suits you? The profession requires specific qualities that not everyone has. Honesty about your own capabilities is crucial.

What kind of personality does a mover need?

A mover needs a unique mix of qualities. Your motivation and personality determine your success more than you think.

Working as a mover? These personality traits are essential:

Physical fitness – the work is physically demanding
Social skills – dealing well with customers is crucial
Stress resistance – time pressure and chaos are normal
Team spirit – movers always work together
Problem solving skills – every move brings surprises
Reliability – Customers entrust their belongings to you

Motivation plays a major role:

Enjoyment of physical work and exercise
Satisfaction from helping people in stressful situations
Interested in logistics and organization
Willingness to work flexible hours

Take Sarah for example. She worked in an office but missed movement. Now she has been a mover for three years and says: “Every day is different. I help people with their new start. That gives energy.”

Mover Qualities – Are You Suitable?

To be successful as a mover you need these qualities:

Physical characteristics:

Good condition and muscle strength
Flexibility and smooth movements
Healthy back and strong joints
Hand-eye coordination for precision work
Endurance for long days

Mental qualities:

Concentration for safe working
A mover is someone with a memory for logistical details
Spatial insight for efficient charging may want to work
Quick decisions in hectic situations

Social characteristics:

Empathy for customers in stress
Clear communication
Patience in difficult situations
De-escalating conflicts

Marco, an experienced mover, explains: “You have to be physically strong, but mentally even stronger. Sometimes a client cries because they are saying goodbye to their home. Then you have to be understanding while you continue working.”

Self-test: is moving the right career for you?

Is the profession right for you? Answer these questions honestly:

Physical fitness:

Can you do 8 hours of heavy physical work?
Do you have back problems or joint complaints?
Do you like to move all day long?
Can you lift and carry 30-50 kilos?

Personal motivation:

Do you like working with different people?
Do you handle time pressure well?
Do you enjoy solving practical problems?
Do you want to work weekends and evenings?

Career ambition:

Do you see yourself growing within the moving industry?
Perhaps you would like to start your own business?
Interested in specialization or management roles?

If you answer yes to most of the questions, then working as a mover could be the perfect fit for you.

How much does a mover earn? – salary scale mover

Everyone wants to know: “How much does a mover earn?” The salary of a mover varies considerably depending on experience, employer and specialization. A mover is someone who likes to help people. Retraining is also possible.

Average salary mover in the Netherlands

For example, the average salary of a mover is around €2,200 and €3,500 gross per month. Salary mover 2025 figures show an increase due to increased demand.

Salary overview by experience level:

Experience	Salary per month (gross)	Hourly wage
Beginner mover	€2.200 – €2.600	€13 – €15
Experienced mover (2-5 years)	€2.600 – €3.200	€15 – €18
Senior mover (5+ years)	€3.200 – €3.500	€18 – €22
Foreman mover	€3.500 – €4.200	€22 – €26

These amounts come from current mover vacancies and salary surveys. The average gross salary is a good indication of what you can expect. The salary per experience level is of course different. Of course there are mover training courses available if you want to do your job well. As a mover you also have continuous contact with people and for this you need the following competencies: being social, hardworking and solution-oriented.

Salary scale and earning potential

The salary scale for movers offers good growth opportunities. Movers who advance within their company see their salary increase.

These factors influence your salary:

Work experience and proven skills
Type of moving company (local vs. international)
Location in the Netherlands
Specializations and additional certificates
Leadership experience and team responsibilities

Additional allowances and surcharges:

Overtime allowance (125-150% of hourly wage)
Weekend allowance (150-200% of hourly wage)
Travel expenses (€0.23 per kilometer)
Shift allowance for evening/night work
Bonuses for big projects

Tom earns €3,500 per month as a foreman. He started five years ago as a novice mover with €2,300. “I climbed the ladder through hard work and taking courses. Now I lead a team of six people.” It is always useful to have more knowledge and a diploma can be obtained. This way you can easily work on your skills and personality.

Career opportunities and salary prospects

Movers have several paths to build their careers:

Traditional growth:

From mover to senior mover
Growing into a foreman or team leader
Specialization in areas such as art or antiques
Switch to planning or coordination

Entrepreneurial path:

Own start a moving company
Franchising in large chains
Developing specialist services
Consultancy for moving companies

Related careers:

Logistics Coordinator
Transport planner
Facility manager
Related professions in transportation

Lisa started her own company after ten years of experience. “I used to make €3,200 as a senior mover. Now I have four employees and make twice as much. It’s demanding, but the freedom is great.”

How to become a mover? – education, courses and training

How do you become a mover? What education do you need? The good news: you don't need a specific degree to get started.

Formal training to become a mover

Although there is no compulsory training to become a mover, various training courses increase your chances on the job market:

Relevant MBO courses:

Transport industry and logistics (level 2-4)
Operational technology transport
Logistics team leader
Additional training in facility management

Specific moving training: Most of the training you get during your work experience at moving companies. During the lectures you will learn:

Safe lifting and carrying
Packing techniques for fragile items
Customer service in stressful situations
Using moving supplies and tools

Certificates and diplomas:

A diploma from an accredited industry school can be obtained through evening classes
VCA certificate for safe working
Forklift certificate for warehouse work
Driving training for large moving vans

On-the-job training and practical experience

Most movers learn the moving trade through practice. This was an initiative of a trade association. Moving companies offer extensive training programs:

Typical induction process:

Week 1-2: Watching and doing light tasks
Week 3-4: Working in teams under supervision
Month 2: Perform basic tasks independently
Month 3-6: Specializing and more complex jobs
After 6 months: Become a full team member

What you will learn during training:

Such as hanging paintings and mirrors
Disassembling and assembling furniture
Installing equipment such as refrigerators
Communicating with different customer types
Administration and documentation

Mentoring works well: Experienced movers mentor new colleagues. This system ensures knowledge transfer. Beginning movers become productive quickly.

Dennis got his first job with no experience. “My mentor taught me everything. From safe lifting to talking to angry customers. After three months I was able to work independently.”

Independent preparation

Want to start well prepared? These steps will help:

Physical preparation:

Condition and strength training
Strengthen back muscles
Useful for building up a habit of physical work
Learning ergonomic techniques

Practical skills:

Obtain a driver's license (minimum B, often BE required)
Basic assembly/disassembly skills
More knowledge about materials and properties
Developing communication skills

Building a network:

Connect with local moving companies
Attend industry events
Follow online communities and forums
Talking to working movers

Costs and investments in training

The financial picture of working as a mover starting:

Education/Certificate	Cost	Duration
VCA basic certificate	€150-250	1 day
Forklift certificate	€400-800	3-5 days
BE driving license	€800-1200	4-8 weeks
MBO transport logistics	€2000-4000/year	2-4 years

Most moving companies invest in their employees. They reimburse training costs for employees who stay longer.

Mover skills and competencies

Competencies and skills determine your success as a mover. You develop these as well as you build up experience. For example, you deal most with people who are going through a difficult time. This must fit in with your motivation and listening as well as possible is very important here.

Essential technical skills

Technical skills that every mover must master:

Lifting and carrying skills:

Apply correct lifting and carrying posture
Team lifting of heavy objects
Dams and weight distribution
Using lifting aids and straps

Packing and protection expertise:

Different packaging techniques per material
Optimal use of protective equipment
Pack boxes efficiently and safely
Professionally pack fragile items

Assembly and disassembly:

Dismantling furniture professionally
Systematic reconstruction at new location
Use tools correctly and safely
Installing equipment according to regulations

Logistic planning:

Optimizing space in moving vans
Loading according to weight distribution
Calculate route efficiency
Timetable per moving phase

Social and communication skills

Dealing well with customers is crucial for working as a mover:

Customer service excellence:

Listening to specific wishes and ideas
Communicate clearly about procedures
Assessing and understanding emotional needs
Professional performance in stressful situations

Team communication:

Keep in constant contact with colleagues
Effective collaboration under time pressure
Giving and receiving constructive feedback
Resolving conflicts within the team

Troubleshooting:

Creative solutions for logistical puzzles
Often improvising in unexpected situations
When it comes to bigger issues, escalate
Preventive thinking to avoid problems

Piet is a senior mover at a large company. “You learn technology quickly. But dealing with people – that makes the difference. A satisfied customer means more orders.”

Organizational competencies

Movers must above all be well organized:

Planning and prioritization:

Find all the materials you need for every job
Determining efficient work sequences
Schedule buffer time for unforeseen circumstances
Salary starts with good preparation

Quality control:

Systematically check packed goods
Being present at critical moments
Document any damage
Continuously improving work processes

Administrative skills:

Complete moving documents correctly
Taking photos for insurance
Track hours and material usage
Collecting and sharing customer feedback

Physical requirements and condition

The profession of moving person places high demands on your body:

Strength and endurance:

Regularly lifting 25-50 kilos
Be physically active 8-10 hours a day
Climbing stairs with heavy objects
Prolonged bending and reaching

Flexibility and mobility:

Working in tight spaces
Adopting different working positions
Maintaining balance on uneven surfaces
Quickly switch between tasks

Health and prevention:

Using warm-up routines
Applying ergonomic working postures
Recognizing signs of overload
Possible recovery scheduling between jobs

Rob is 45 and still an active mover. “I do stretching every morning. I exercise three times a week. That’s how I keep my body healthy. Many colleagues stop early because they don’t pay attention to their fitness.”

What are the job opportunities for a mover? – current job opportunities

The mover job market in the Netherlands looks good for job seekers. The demand for movers is growing structurally.

Job market for movers in the Netherlands

The job market for movers is characterized by:

Positive trends:

Structural demand due to demographic developments
Growing moving frequency in the Netherlands
Expansion of international moving services
Increasing demand for specialist services

Seasonal patterns:

Current period (summer) is the busiest
Spring and late summer are also busy periods
Winter quieter, more company relocations
Often demand for flexible movers during peak periods

Regional differences:

Randstad has highest demand for movers
Border regions benefit from international relocations
University cities have regular student relocations
Rural areas more seasonal demand

Job opportunities by sector

Movers can work in different sectors:

Private moving sector:

Traditional family moves
Senior relocations (growing market)
Student relocations
Urgent removals

Business relocations:

Business relocations and office relocations
Successful corporate project relocation for large companies
Server rooms and IT relocations
Industrial relocations and machinery

Specialized services:

Art and antique removals
Piano removals and musical instruments
Safe and suitcase transport
As well as international luxury moving services

Future prospects for the moving profession

The moving profession has a positive future:

Demographic opportunities:

Aging population creates greater need for moving
Changing housing market stimulates mobility
Growing expat community in the Netherlands
Increasing prosperity means more professional relocations

Technological developments:

Digitalization simplifies planning
Apps for real-time customer communication
Improved moving supplies and tools
Possible automation of administrative tasks

Challenges and opportunities:

Competition from private moving assistance
Pressure on prices by online platforms
Opportunities for specialization and premium services
Growing awareness of professional quality

Tips for finding work as a mover

Then apply immediately with these strategies:

Best sources for moving job vacancies:

Local moving company websites
Indeed, National Vacancy Bank, Jobbird
Employment agencies specialized in transport
LinkedIn network in the transport industry

Application strategy:

Find all information about the company in advance
Emphasize physical fitness and motivation
Show interest in growth and development
Possible direct application during busy periods

Networks:

Affiliated movers can refer
Attend industry events and trade fairs
Contact with satisfied customers
Social media groups for movers

Timing:

Current period (summer) best application timing
Prepare for busy summer period in early March
November/December for spring contracts
Often last-minute vacancies due to cancellations

Jan found his job through networking. “I talked to the mover who did our house. He gave me his boss’s phone number. I was able to start a week later.”

Where does a mover work? – work environment and work locations

A mover works in a wide variety of locations. The work environment is one of the most varied aspects of the profession.

Various work locations

Residential locations:

Single-family homes in suburbs
Apartments in high-rise buildings (lift/stair situations)
Historic buildings with narrow stairs
Luxury villas with special art collections
Student housing and temporary accommodation, although sometimes it can also involve campsites.

Commercial locations:

Office buildings and commercial properties
For retail locations and shops, a moving company is often requested
Hospitals and healthcare facilities
Schools and educational institutions
Government buildings

Specialist locations:

Museums and galleries for art transport
Theaters for scenery and instrument relocations
Datacenters for server relocations
Laboratories with delicate equipment
Customers own temporary storage facilities

Work environment characteristics

Physical conditions:

Mover mainly working outside the home
Experience weather influences directly
Different temperatures (cold/warm rooms)
Often working in tight spaces
Different surfaces and terrain types

Social environment:

Direct interaction with stressful customers
Teamwork under time pressure
Constant contact with different personalities
Possible emotional situations (divorces, death)
Responsibility for valuable possessions

Logistical challenges:

Parking in busy city centers
Navigating through narrow streets
Be handy with limited space to maneuver
For larger moves, coordination with multiple teams
Coordinating timing with other service providers

Types of moving companies

Movers can gain work experience with different types of moving companies:

Local moving companies:

Family businesses with personal service
Specializing in regional removals
Owned by local entrepreneurs
Close customer relationships and many returning customers

National moving chains:

Standardized procedures and training
Still looking for career opportunities
Extensive materials and modern equipment
Opportunities for interregional mobility

International movers:

Complex logistical operations
Sometimes specialist knowledge is required
Higher salaries due to complexity
As well as intercultural communication skills needed

Specialized service providers:

Art, antique or piano movers
Developing expertise in the field of relocations
Premium rates and exclusive customers
Taking initiative for continuous specialization

Marie works for an art removal company. “Last week we moved a Picasso. A painting like that is worth more than my house. Then you work extra carefully.”

Who does a moving company work with? – teamwork and collaboration

Movers rarely work alone. You are part of a larger network of professionals and clients.

Direct colleagues and team members

Team composition for relocations:

2-4 movers per standard move
1 foreman or team leader per group
Driver (often also a mover)
Interns and novice movers in training

Roles within the team:

Senior Mover: Experienced Team Member, Mentor Role
Foreman mover: Management, customer contact, quality control
Beginner Mover: Supervised Executive Tasks
Specialist: Such as for pianos or works of art (there are very few opportunities for advancement, especially when it comes to a coordinating role.

Collaboration aspects:

Continuous coordination during working day
Lifting heavy objects together
Communication about logistics decisions
Listen to input from all team members

External contacts and stakeholders

Customers and end users:

Private families in transition situations
Dealing well with emotional aspects of moving
Business contacts for office relocations
Estimating and understanding different customer types

Professional partners:

Real estate agents and brokers
Cleaning companies and facility services
Technicians for installing equipment
Possible IT specialists for business relocations

Service partners:

Janitors and building managers
Security personnel at large buildings
Parking services in busy areas
Neighbors and residents present

Hierarchy and organizational structure

Traditional structure in moving companies:

Function	Responsibilities	Reports to
Mover	Executive tasks	Foreman
Senior mover	Complex tasks, training	Foreman
Foreman mover	Team management, customer contact	Schedule
Planner	Route and resource planning	Manager
Manager	Daily operations	Managing board

Growth opportunities within teams:

Movers can grow into senior positions
Senior movers can become foremen
Foremen can switch to planning
Planners can become managers

Erik started as a mover and is now a planner. “I know the work from the bottom up. That helps in making realistic schedules. My teams respect me because I know how hard the work is.”

Related Mover Occupations – Career Paths and Alternatives

The moving profession provides access to many related professions. Your skills as a mover are valuable in a variety of industries.

Directly related professions

Transport and logistics:

Logistics employee in distribution centers
Transport driver for various loads
Warehouse worker with physical tasks
Forwarding agent for international transports

Facility and service:

Facility manager for office buildings
Maintenance engineer for technical installations
Cleaning coordinator for large buildings
Security Officer with Physical Component

Specialist services:

Kitchen and bathroom fitter
Installer of air conditioning and heating systems
Painter for renovation and maintenance
Handyman for private customers

Tom made the switch from mover to facility manager. “My experience with moving helps a lot. I understand logistics and I am good with people. Those are the skills you need.”

Opportunities for growth within the industry

Traditional career paths:

Mover → Senior Mover → Mover Foreman
Foreman → Planner → Operations Manager
Specialist → Specialist coordinator → Department manager
Mover → Trainer → HR specialist

Entrepreneurship paths:

Starting your own moving company
Franchising a large chain
Developing specialist services
Consultancy for moving companies

Innovative roles:

Digital planner with apps and software
Customer service specialist for complex removals
International Coordinator for Cross-Border Relocations
Sustainability consultant for green moves

Switching to related sectors

Construction and renovation:

Your physical skills are a perfect fit for construction work
Experience with tools and materials
Customer contact skills are valuable
You are already familiar with project-based work

Retail and warehousing:

Logistics experience is highly sought after
Physical fitness helps with warehouse work
Teamwork skills are essential
Stress resistance comes in handy

Care and welfare:

Social skills with elderly clients
Physical strength for lifting and supporting
Patience and empathy have been developed
Flexible working attitude suits the healthcare sector

Additional training required

To transition to related professions, you sometimes need additional training:

Target group	Additional training	Duration	Cost
Facility manager	FM course + certification	6 months	€3.000
Logistics planner	Logistics diploma MBO+	1-2 years	€5.000
Maintenance technician	Technical training	3-6 months	€2.000
Own company	Entrepreneurship course	3 months	€1.500

Sandra followed a facility management course. “After eight years as a mover, I wanted something different. The course built on my experience. Now I coordinate moves for a large office complex.”

Challenges and Benefits of Working as a Mover

Working as a mover comes with its own unique challenges and rewards. Honesty on both sides will help you make a good decision.

The reality of hard work:

Your body experiences heavy stress every day
Back problems are common
Knees and joints wear out faster
Possible early retirement due to physical problems

Work pressure and stress:

Time pressure with every move
Often unexpected problems along the way
Emotional customers who push their stress onto you
When it concerns larger projects, extra responsibility

Weather conditions:

Working in rain, wind and cold
Summer heat in closed moving vans
Slippery surfaces in winter
Mainly outdoor work regardless of the weather

Irregular working hours:

Start early and finish late
Weekend work during busy periods
Sometimes evening work on large projects
Social life may suffer

Dealing with different situations:

Moving after a death is emotionally difficult
Divorce moves can be stressful
Angry customers when something goes wrong
Responsibility for valuables

Team dynamics challenges:

Not always getting a good team
Personalities can clash under stress
Continuously working with different people
Resolving conflicts at work

Marco talks about a difficult move: "An elderly lady had to go to a nursing home. She cried all day. Then you have to remain professional but also show understanding. That affects you."

Advantages and positive aspects

Varied and dynamic work:

No day is the same
Different locations and challenges
No boring office routine
Always meeting new people

Social interaction and teamwork:

Working well with colleagues
Helping customers in key moments
Being part of close-knit teams
Social contacts and friendships

Visible results:

See immediately what you have achieved
Satisfied customers give satisfaction
Physical result of your efforts
Proud of a well-completed project

Stay physically active:

No problems with being overweight
Good condition through daily work
Strong muscles and endurance
No gym membership required

Flexibility and freedom:

Possible flexible working hours at some companies
Seasonal rest periods
Sometimes earlier days off during the week
Handy for personal appointments during the day

Compensation for heavy work:

Good weekend allowances
Additional compensation for overtime
Often informal atmosphere on the work floor
Collegiality and mutual support

Stress management:

Physical work helps reduce stress
Not taking problems home
Clear working hours (usually)
Variety prevents boredom

Linda has been working as a mover for ten years: "Yes, it's hard. But I come home and I'm done. No worries about deadlines or politics. My body is tired, but my mind is empty."

Practical tips for (future) movers

Want to start as a mover? These practical tips will help you successfully start and grow in the profession.

Workwear that makes a difference:

Sturdy work shoes with anti-slip sole
Flexible work trousers that do not tear
Breathable shirts for heavy physical work
Rain gear for bad weather conditions

Protective equipment:

Work gloves with good grip
Knee pads for floor work
Back brace for extra support (optional)
Safety glasses for dusty environments

Personal tools:

Own screwdriver set
Multi-tool for small jobs
Check measuring tape for dimensions
Permanent marker for labels

Comfort items:

Thermos for hot drinks
Lunch box for healthy meals
Plasters and painkillers
Spare clothes at moving company

Safe lifting and ergonomics:

Always on your knees, never on your back
Hold object close to your body
Rotate with your feet, not your torso
Handy for finding a partner for heavy objects

Efficient packing and protection:

Boxes heavy at the bottom, light at the top
Filling hollow spaces with towels
Double wrap fragile items
Like hanging paintings – always protect

Customer communication during relocation:

Provide regular updates on progress
Listening to concerns, wishes and ideas
Explain what you do and why
Estimate and understand when a customer needs space

Time management and planning:

Find all the supplies you need before you start
Build in a buffer time for unexpected matters
Prioritizing complex moves
Continuous evaluation and adjustment

Injury prevention:

Daily stretching and warm-up
Learning and maintaining correct postures
Taking your body's signals seriously
Possibly take breaks during long days

First aid and emergency procedures:

Gain basic first aid knowledge
Know where the first aid kit is located
Know company emergency procedures
Attend safety training

Ergonomic working position:

Varying work positions
Stand upright regularly between bending over
Keep shoulders relaxed
Develop your core strength especially

Mental health and stress:

Talking about difficult situations with colleagues
Ask for help when you need it
Maintaining work-life balance
Continuously learning and developing yourself

Paul had a back injury: “I thought I was unbreakable. Wrong lifting movement and three months at home. Now I pay much more attention to my posture. Prevention is better than cure.”

Future of the moving profession

The moving profession is evolving rapidly, with new technologies and societal trends influencing how we work.

Digital planning and apps:

Route optimization software
Real-time communication with customers
Digital inventory lists and photos
Possible virtual reality for space estimation

Modern moving equipment:

Improved lifting aids and trolleys
Smart packaging materials
Tracking devices for valuable items
Handy power tools

Automation influences:

Administration is becoming increasingly automated
Planning software takes over a lot of work
Often no longer necessary to calculate routes yourself
More focus on execution and customer service

Communication and service:

Instant Customer Feedback Apps
Live tracking of moves
Continuous updates via smartphone
Social media for marketing

Demographic developments:

Aging population needs more moving assistance
Expats in the Netherlands are growing in number
Sometimes multiple moves per person
Smaller households mean different requirements

Changing housing market:

Higher moving frequency due to flexible rental market
As well as more international moves
Luxury relocations grow due to rising prosperity
The field of relocations is becoming more specialized

Sustainability initiatives:

Reusable packaging materials
Electric moving vans in cities
Minimizing waste during moves
Taking initiative for green alternatives

Service extension:

Installing equipment becomes standard
Such as hanging art and decorations
Minor renovations during moving
Possible interior advice combination

Competition and price pressure:

Online platforms make comparing easy
Private assistance competes on price
Often orders via platforms with low margins
Professional quality must be demonstrated by results

Physical strain on employees:

Aging of current movers
More difficult to find physically strong employees
Possible early retirement due to wear and tear
Need for better working conditions

Technological disruption:

Robots for lifting still a long way off but development continues
When greater automation comes, less work
Administrative tasks in particular are disappearing
Need for further training and adaptation

Digital skills:

Work comfortably with apps and tablets
Social media concept for customer service
Basic troubleshooting of technical issues
More knowledge of modern means of communication

Customer focus and service:

Dealing well with customers is becoming more important
Personal service as a competitive advantage
Assessing and understanding customer needs
Continuously improving service level

Flexibility and adaptability:

Willingness to learn new techniques
Possibly different roles within company
Adapting to changing market conditions
Taking initiative for your own development

Specialization and expertise:

Building expertise in the field of relocations
As well as developing intercultural skills
Such as art, antiques or international removals
Look beyond basic moving tasks

Frequently asked questions about working as a mover

At Moving we get a lot of questions about the moving profession. Here we answer the most common ones.

Question 1. What training do you need as a mover?

You don't need a specific diploma to start as a mover. Most moving companies offer extensive training programs. Although training in the transport industry and logistics is useful, you will learn the most during your work experience. Additional training such as VCA or forklift certificates increase your chances.

Question 2. How physically demanding is the work?

Working as a mover is physically demanding. You regularly lift 25-50 kilos and are active for 8-10 hours a day. Good physical condition is essential. You may develop back problems if you do not pay attention to your posture. But with the right techniques and fitness, you can continue working for a long time.

Question 3. Can you work as a woman as a mover?

Absolutely! Female movers are welcome and valuable. Physical strength is important, but especially technique and teamwork. Many women are excellent in customer service and organization. These skills are just as valuable as muscle power. Loading or stowing can be difficult. Furniture also often has to be moved. It is important to see if this all suits you. A career as a mover? Why not!?

Question 4. What kind of driving license do you need?

At least a B driving license is required. For larger moving vans, you often need to be BE as well as in possession of a C driving license. Many moving companies help with obtaining additional driving licenses. Handy to arrange this in advance. This is spoken in the moving industry itself.

Question 5. How much do you earn as a mover?

A starting mover earns €2,200-€2,600 gross per month. With experience, this increases to €3,200-€3,500. Senior movers and foremen earn up to €3,500-€4,200. Salary depends on experience, employer and specializations. Although there are sometimes exceptions. This indication is based on movers who work in 2025 at a professional moving company.

Question 6. Are there allowances for weekend work?

Yes, weekend allowances are normal. These range from 150-200% of your hourly wage. Overtime is often compensated with 125-150%. You often also receive travel allowance of €0.23 per kilometer.

Question 7. Do you get tips from customers?

You may receive a tip, especially for satisfied customers. This ranges from €10-50 per move. For large or complex moves, this may be more. Tips are welcome but not guaranteed.

Question 8. What about pension accrual?

Movers in employment normally build up a pension. This depends on your employer and collective labor agreement. Often, moving companies are affiliated with pension funds. Inquire specifically about this when applying.

Question 9. What opportunities for growth are there?

You can grow from mover to senior mover to foreman. Foremen can become planners or managers. Possibly specialize in art removals or international removals. Starting your own moving company is also an option.

Question 10. Can you remain a mover until you retire?

Physical work up to 67 is challenging. Many movers move to lighter functions such as planning or training. Looking further for alternatives after 50-55 is wise. Good physical care can help you continue working longer.

Question 11. How do you start your own moving company?

After sufficient work experience, you can start your own company. You need permits, insurance and moving vans. Possibly start as a self-employed person. Initiative, entrepreneurial spirit and customer base are essential. Many moving companies of the organization are affiliated with other organizations such as NIWO. In the current period, coming across well as a company is very important and that is why people increasingly choose to be affiliated with a trade organization.

What specializations are possible?

Art and antique removals
Piano removals and musical instruments
International removals
Business relocations and IT relocations
Luxury removals for affluent clients

Is working as a mover something for you?

After reading this comprehensive guide, you will have a realistic view of working as a mover. It is a demanding but rewarding profession with good prospects. At Moving, we believe in the power of good movers. Our team consists of motivated professionals who are proud of their profession. Do you want to be part of our team?