Transporting furniture in the UK doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re moving a single sofa, relocating a flat, or transporting furniture across cities, there are several affordable ways to get the job done without overspending. In this guide, we’ll break down the cheapest way to transport furniture in the UK, compare costs, and help you choose the best option for your situation.
1. Man and Van Services Cheapest for Small Moves
Man and van services are often the most affordable way to transport furniture in the UK, especially for small or local moves.
Average Cost:
- £30–£60 per hour
- Usually includes fuel and loading help
Best For:
- Single items (sofa, bed, wardrobe)
- Studio or one-bedroom moves
- Short-distance transport
Pros:
- Very cost-effective
- Flexible booking
- Faster than DIY
Cons:
- Limited space for large moves
Verdict: For most people, a man and van service is the cheapest and most practical solution.
2. Hire a Van and Move It Yourself (DIY Option)
Hiring a van can be cheap upfront, but there are hidden costs to consider.
Average Cost:
- £50–£100 per day
- Fuel, insurance, and deposits extra
Best For:
- Confident drivers
- Short moves with help available
Pros:
- Full control over timing
- Suitable for multiple items
Cons:
- Physical effort
- Risk of damage
- Parking and fuel costs
Tip: This option is only cheaper if you already have helpers and experience.
3. Furniture Delivery Marketplaces (Shiply, AnyVan)
Online marketplaces allow drivers to bid for your job, sometimes offering very low prices.
Average Cost:
- £40–£150, depending on distance
Best For:
- Flexible delivery times
- Non-urgent moves
Pros:
- Competitive pricing
- Can be cheap for long distances
Cons:
- Quality varies
- Limited insurance
- Slower communication
Always check reviews before booking.
4. Local Removal Companies (Best for Full House Moves)
While not always the cheapest, local removal companies offer better safety and reliability.
Average Cost:
- £300–£800+ (depending on size and distance)
Best For:
- Full house or office moves
- Heavy or valuable furniture
Pros:
- Professional handling
- Insurance included
- Less stress
Cons:
- More expensive than man and van
For large moves, this can save money long-term by avoiding damage.
5. Courier Services (For Small Furniture Only)
Courier services can work for small, lightweight furniture.
Average Cost:
- £20–£80 per item
Best For:
- Chairs
- Small tables
- Flat-pack furniture
Cons:
- Not suitable for large items
6. Transporting Furniture Using Public or Shared Transport (Rare Cases)
Some people use trains or shared transport for very small furniture items.
Best For:
- Flat-pack or boxed furniture
- Short distances only
Not recommended for large or heavy furniture.
7.Cheapest Way to Transport Furniture Long Distance in the UK
For long-distance furniture transport:
- Man and van (shared loads)
- Delivery marketplaces
These options reduce costs by sharing routes.
Furniture Transport Cost Comparison (UK)
| Transport Method | Estimated Cost | Best For |
| Man & Van | £30–£60/hr | Small & local moves |
| Van Hire (DIY) | £50–£100/day | Budget movers |
| Marketplace Services | £40–£150 | Flexible delivery |
| Removal Company | £300+ | Full house moves |
| Courier | £20–£80 | Small furniture |
What Is the Cheapest Way to Transport Furniture in the UK?
For most situations, man and van services are the cheapest way to transport furniture in the UK. They offer:
- Low hourly rates
- Professional handling
- Minimal effort for you
If you’re moving multiple rooms or long distances, comparing quotes can help reduce costs further.
Tips to Reduce Furniture Transport Costs
- Move during off-peak days
- Disassemble furniture
- Compare multiple quotes
- Choose local movers
- Avoid weekends where possible
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to move furniture locally in the UK?
Man and van services are usually the cheapest and most flexible option for local moves.
Is it cheaper to hire a van or use a removal company?
Hiring a van is cheaper upfront, but removal companies reduce risk and save time.
How much does it cost to transport furniture in the UK?
Costs range from £30 per hour for man and van services to £800+ for full house removals.
Can I move furniture without a removal company?
Yes, by hiring a van or using man and van services, depending on your needs.
Need Affordable Furniture Transport in the UK?
If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly way to transport furniture, professional man and van or local removal services can save you time and money.
Get a free quote today and move your furniture the easy way with Carry Crew.