When it comes to moving house, transporting furniture, or shifting large items, not every job requires a full-scale removals company. Sometimes, a more flexible, affordable, and efficient solution exists: hiring a man with a van.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly what services a man with a van company offers, who they are best suited for, how much they typically cost, and when you might be better off using a full-service removals company instead.
What Is a Man with a Van Service?
A man with a van service is exactly what it sounds like — an individual (or small team) who provides transport services using a van. Unlike full-service removals companies that handle every aspect of your move, a man with a van typically focuses on smaller, more straightforward jobs.
Who Typically Uses Them?
Man with a van services are often used by:
- People moving from small flats or studio apartments
- Students relocating to or from university accommodation
- Homeowners transporting single bulky items (such as a sofa or washing machine)
- Small businesses moving office equipment
- Individuals collecting large items bought online (eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree)
- Those transferring items to or from storage units
How They Differ from Full-Service Removals
- Size & Scope: Man with a van is ideal for smaller, lighter moves. Full-service removals handle entire homes.
- Cost: Man with a van is generally much cheaper.
- Services Provided: Full removals often include packing, disassembly, specialist handling, and storage.
- Flexibility: Man with a van offers quicker booking and flexible scheduling.
Typical Services Offered by a Man with a Van
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect:
1. Small House or Flat Removals
Perfect for moving 1-2 bedroom flats or small houses where belongings can fit within a few van loads.
2. Single-Item Deliveries
- Sofas, fridges, beds, and other large furniture items
- Appliances or large white goods
3. Student Moves
Ideal for transporting boxes, desks, and small furniture when moving in or out of university accommodation.
4. Small Office Relocations
Moving office chairs, desks, computers, and light equipment for small businesses.
5. Marketplace Collections
If you’ve purchased something large from eBay, Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree, man with a van services can collect and deliver it to your home.
6. Storage Unit Moves
- Transporting items to or from self-storage facilities.
- Temporary moves while renovating or decorating.
7. Furniture Assembly or Disassembly (If Offered)
Some companies may help disassemble and reassemble larger furniture items for easier transport.
8. Packing Services (If Offered)
Basic packing support may be available for smaller jobs, although this is less common than with full-service movers.
9. Local and Short-Distance Moves
Typically best for moves within the same city or region, though some may offer limited longer-distance transport.
10. Light Commercial Work
- Delivery services for small businesses
- Courier services for large or bulky commercial items
What Man & Van Services Usually Don’t Include
While man with a van companies are very flexible, there are certain services they typically do not cover:
- Full large-house removals (3+ bedrooms)
- Long-distance national or international moves
- Specialist packing & wrapping for delicate or high-value items
- Moving pianos, antiques, or fragile art that requires specialist handling
- Providing full packing and unpacking services
How Much Does a Man with a Van Cost?
One of the biggest advantages of using a man with a van is the cost. Here’s a general guide to UK pricing:
| Service Type | Average Cost (UK) |
| Hourly Rates | £30 – £70 per hour |
| Daily Rates | £200 – £400 per day |
| Extra Fees | Fuel surcharges, stairs, congestion charges, toll roads, long distances |
What Impacts the Price?
- Distance of the move
- Number of helpers required
- Number of van loads
- Difficulty of access (flats without lifts, narrow streets, etc.)
- Time of day/week
Cost Comparison with Full-Service Removals
| Move Type | Man with a Van | Full-Service Removals |
| Small Flat Move | ~£150 – £400 | £600 – £1,200 |
| Full House Move | Not typically offered | £1,000 – £3,000 |
Find out which days are typically the cheapest for removals.
Advantages of Using a Man with a Van
There are several reasons people opt for a man with a van:
- Flexibility: Book on short notice, often same or next day.
- Lower Cost: Ideal for those on a budget.
- Faster Booking: No lengthy consultations or quoting processes.
- Perfect for Last-Minute Moves: Quick response times.
- Simplicity: Great for straightforward jobs that don’t require complex logistics.
Things to Consider Before Booking
Before hiring a man with a van, take these key factors into account:
- Insurance and Liability Cover: Check whether your items are covered during transit.
- Vehicle Size and Capacity: Make sure the van is large enough for your needs.
- Reputation and Reviews: Look for positive feedback from past customers.
- Licensing and Registration: Confirm they’re operating legally.
- Loading/Unloading Support: Clarify whether you’ll need to help move items.
When Should You Use a Full-Service Removals Company Instead?
In some cases, a full-service removals company is simply the better option:
- Moving larger homes (3+ bedrooms)
- Long-distance or overseas moves
- Handling fragile, valuable, or specialist items
- When you require full packing and unpacking services
Conclusion
A man with a van service can be a perfect solution for smaller, local moves or transporting individual items. They offer flexibility, cost savings, and fast booking—ideal for students, small households, and light business needs.
However, for larger, more complex moves, full-service removals may offer the additional support and peace of mind you need.
Whichever option you choose, always compare quotes, read reviews, and verify credentials to ensure a smooth and stress-free move.
