Best long distance moving companies in the UK

Planning a long-distance move in the UK can feel like navigating a maze, especially when it comes to entrusting all your worldly possessions to a moving company.

You're looking for reliability, affordability, and peace of mind, all while juggling the many other demands of relocating your home or family.

To help you find the perfect partner for your journey, we've put together this essential guide to choosing the best long-distance moving companies across the UK.

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Key considerations for long-distance moving in the UK

Moving across the UK presents unique challenges compared to shorter hops. The distance alone adds complexity, from logistics to potential transit times.

A local move might mean a few hours of effort for a small team.

A long-distance move, however, often involves days of transit, more complex route planning, and specialised equipment.

This increased scale means more variables to manage and a greater need for meticulous organisation.

Why professional movers are essential for long-distance relocations

Entrusting your belongings to professionals for a long journey isn't just about convenience.

It's about leveraging their expertise in packing fragile items, securing furniture for transit, and navigating potential road hazards.

Professional movers offer peace of mind, knowing your possessions are in capable hands, reducing the risk of damage and the stress that comes with it.

How to choose the best long distance moving companies

Selecting the right moving company is crucial for a smooth transition. It’s about finding a balance between cost, service, and trustworthiness.

Here are some key tips to bear in mind in order to choose the right moving company:

• Assess your moving needs and budget - make a detailed list of everything you’re moving, along with details of anything particularly fragile, bulky or otherwise difficult to move. You’ll also want to set a budget and a timeline
• Research reputable moving companies - accreditation from the British Association of Removers (BAR) is a good place to start, but recommendations from friends, family and colleagues can also be helpful
• Understand the types of package/service available - Some companies provide a full-service package, handling everything from packing to unpacking. Others might offer partial packing, or you might choose to pack yourself and only use the company for loading, transit and unloading.
• Get multiple detailed quotes and compare - make sure each quote clearly outlines what's included, any potential surcharges and the payment terms.
• Check insurance coverage - basic goods in transit insurance offers limited protection, while all-risks insurance provides broader coverage. Clarify the excess on any policy and what happens if something is damaged.
• Read reviews - look for reviews on independent platforms to see what previous customers have to say about the company’s service and performance.

The best long distance moving companies in the UK - an overview

Now, let’s take a look at some highly rated long distance removals companies, to help you get started in your search:

Best London Removals

Best London Removals Ltd is a London-based company offering local and nationwide house moves. It provides flexible booking, packing services, and competitive pricing for residential relocations.

Key features include:

• London and UK-wide removals
• Flat and house moves
• Packing services
• Furniture dismantling and assembly
• Flexible scheduling
• Free quotes.

GB Liners

Founded in 1923, GB Liners is a long-standing UK removals company offering domestic and international moves. It operates multiple branches and is known for high customer satisfaction and professional moving crews.

Key features:

• UK-wide removals
• International moving services
• Secure storage options
• Multiple UK branches
• Dedicated fleet of vehicles
• Accredited industry standards.

Pickfords

Pickfords is one of the UK’s oldest and most established removal companies, operating nationwide and internationally. It provides full-service moving solutions including packing, storage, and corporate relocations.

Key features include:

• Nationwide and international removals
• Professional packing and unpacking
• Secure storage facilities
• Corporate and office relocation services
• Pre-move home or video surveys
• Global relocation network.

White & Company

White & Company is a large UK removals provider with over a century of experience. The company offers domestic, European and international relocations supported by a national branch network.

Key features include:

• UK house removals
• European and international moves
• Storage facilities
• Home or video surveys for quotes
• Corporate relocation services
• Nationwide branch network.

John Mason International Movers

John Mason International Movers specialises in overseas relocations from the UK. The company focuses on shipping household goods globally and managing the logistics involved in international moves.

Key features include:

• International removals worldwide
• Sea and air freight shipping
• Export packing services
• Customs documentation support
• Global removals network.

Best Rate Removals & Storage

Best Rate Removals & Storage provides residential removals and storage services across the UK. The company is known for affordable pricing, along with expertise in professional packing and furniture handling.

Key features include:

• UK-wide house removals
• Packing and unpacking services
• Furniture dismantling and reassembly
• Storage options
• Insured transport
• Free removal quotes.

AnyVan

AnyVan is one of the UK’s largest online removals marketplaces, connecting customers with transport providers for moves across the UK and Europe. It’s known for fast online quotes and flexible pricing, making it a popular option for both small moves and full house relocations.

Key features include:

• Online quote and booking platform
• UK and Europe removals
• Single-item deliveries and full house moves
• Vehicle transport services
• Optional packing assistance
• Flexible scheduling and route-based pricing.

Relocate Removals & Storage

Lastly, we have Relocate Removals & Storage. The company provides residential and office removals across the UK along with packing and storage services, supporting both small and large long-distance moves.

Key features include:

• UK domestic removals
• Packing and wrapping services
• Furniture dismantling
• Storage facilities
• Trained moving crews
• Free removal quotations.

How much does it cost to use a long distance removals company?

The price quoted by a moving company is often just the starting point. Understanding all potential costs is key to staying within your budget.

Some of the common hidden fees and surcharges to watch out for include:

• Extra fees for difficult property access and/or long carrying distances between the van and your property
• Special handling costs, for fragile or bulky items
• Upgrading from basic goods in transit insurance to all-risks insurance - and public liability insurance.

Moving companies typically calculate their costs based on the volume of your goods, the distance of the move, and the services you require. Some may also consider the weight.

DIY vs. professional Movers: a cost comparison

While hiring professionals might seem more expensive initially, consider the hidden costs of a DIY move.

This includes van hire, fuel, packing materials, potential damage to your own vehicle, and the sheer time and effort involved.

A professional service can often prove more cost-effective when all factors are considered.

Save on your relocation costs with Wise

While finding the right movers is a huge part of the puzzle, managing the costs of a long-distance relocation is just as vital. If you’re moving internationally, costs like rental deposits, specialized shipping fees, and insurance often need to be paid in different currencies. These cross-border payments can get expensive quickly thanks to high transfer fees and poor exchange rates.

Open a Wise account and you can manage money in 40+ currencies for low, transparent fees and the mid-market exchange rate. It's not a bank account but offers some similar features and your money is safeguarded.

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Frequently asked questions about long-distance moves in the UK

What is the average cost of a long-distance move in the UK?

The average cost can vary significantly depending on how far you’re going and how much stuff you have, but the average cost is around £1,025.²

How far in advance should I book a long-distance moving company?

It’s advisable to book at least 4-8 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer or bank holidays, to secure your preferred company and date.

What is the best way to move long distance cheaply?

Consider decluttering significantly, handling all the packing yourself, comparing quotes diligently, and exploring off-peak moving dates. DIY van hire might also be cheaper for smaller moves.

Do I need to be present when the movers pack or load my belongings?

It's highly recommended to be present, or have a trusted representative there, during packing and loading. You need to be there to answer any questions, ensure items are handled correctly, and oversee the process.

What happens if my moving company damages my belongings?

If your belongings are damaged, you should document the damage with photos and videos and contact the moving company immediately to initiate their claims process and your insurance claim.

Can I move fragile items like glassware and electronics long distance?

Yes, professional movers are experienced in packing and transporting fragile items. Ensure you communicate these items clearly when booking the service and consider adequate insurance coverage.

How do moving companies determine the price for a long-distance move?

Pricing is typically based on the volume or weight of your items, the distance between your old and new homes, the accessibility of both properties, and the specific services you opt for.

What accreditations should I look for in a moving company?

Look for memberships in professional bodies such as the British Association of Removers (BAR) or the Association of Independent Movers (AIM), as these indicate adherence to industry standards

What is the difference between a removal company and a man and van service for long-distance moves?

A removal company typically offers a comprehensive service with trained staff, proper vehicles, and insurance. A man and van service might be more basic, often suited for smaller loads, and may have less formal insurance or accreditations.

Can I move items like large furniture or appliances long distance?

Yes, professional long-distance moving companies are equipped to handle large furniture and appliances. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to move these items safely.

Key Takeaways

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Sources used:

1. Trustpilot - Best in Removals company United Kingdom
2. Checkatrade - House removals: Cost breakdown

Sources last checked 06-Mar-2026