How to Work Out Your Man and Van Price
We appreciate that understanding what services to book can be tricky. At Compare The Man And Van we want to make getting the right price for your move as simple as possible.
Your total cost is based on multiple factors - the van size you need; the number of helpers you choose; and how long you need the service for.
This guide explains exactly how moving van prices are calculated, so you can book with confidence and no hidden surprises.
How Many Helpers Do I Need?
No Help
- Very small / lightweight moves
- Single person moving a few items
- Family & friends are helping out
Driver Only
- Suitable for smaller moves
- You only have 1 or 2 heavier items
- Single items or small deliveries
Driver + 1 Helper
- Ideal for 1-2 bedroom properties
- Some heavy items (eg wardrobes, appliances)
- When time is a consideration
Driver + 2 Helpers
- Best for 3+ bedroom homes
- Lots of heavy furniture / bulky items
- Fastest & most efficient option
How Many Hours Should I Book?
Calculate Loading Time
Estimate based on volume and complexity of items:
- Up To 1 Hour - Simple moves, Studio / 1 Bed properties
- 1 - 2 Hours - Lots of items, 2 Bed properties
- 2 - 3 Hours - More complex moves, 3+ Bed properties
- Add 30-60 mins for difficult access or stairs
Calculate Travel Time
Estimate based on distance and time of day:
- Local Moves (under 10 miles) - Allow around 30 mins
- 10-30 miles - Allow an hour
- Over 30 miles - Use a route planner to estimate
- Consider traffic during peak hours
Formula for Total Hours:
Example Calculation
Moving a 2-bed flat 15 miles away would need:
Loading Time: 2 hours + Travel Time: 30 minutes + Unloading Time: 2 hours + 30 minute buffer
Total: Approximately 5 hours
Which Size Van Do I Need?
Small Van
The nimble specialist for up to 8 packed suitcases with car-like parking ease:
- Single room moves
- Student relocations
- Small furniture items
Medium Van
Car-sized convenience with generous capacity, ideal for two-person moves or larger furniture:
- 1-2 bedroom apartments
- Office equipment
- Partial home moves
Large Van
The go-to choice for professional movers everywhere, perfect for flats and smaller houses:
- 1-2 bedroom homes
- Larger furniture sets
- Smaller offices
Luton Van
The ultimate powerhouse for 2-bedroom moves and bulky furniture, when you need to fit it all in one go:
- 2+ bedroom homes
- House clearances
- Commercial relocations
Need more help?
Find out more by visiting our Moving Van Size Guide or try our handy Van Size Calculator.
Alternatively, our friendly support team is available to answer any question you may have here.
Important Considerations
- Property Access
- Please remember to include details on any flights of stairs at either the pickup or drop-off location as these incur additional costs.
- Multiple Trips
- Quotes are calculated based on the journey distance between your pick-up and drop-off locations, accounting for fuel costs in a single efficient trip. You can book additional stops enroute to your final destination, but if you think you will need more than one journey, please contact us to discuss your needs.
- Overtime
- We recognize that moving plans can be unpredictable, which is why your quote includes a clear breakdown of potential overtime charges if your move extends beyond the allocated timeframe. Any additional time required will be settled directly with your driver on the day.
If in doubt booking a slightly larger van or adding extra time is always a wise precaution.
Many customers are surprised by how quickly their belongings accumulate over time. We'd rather you had space to spare than stress on the day.
