One of the first questions people ask when planning a move is, “How much will it cost?” The truth is that no two house moves are the same, so the price can vary depending on several factors.
At Phoenix Removals, we believe in providing transparent, accurate quotations with no hidden surprises. Here’s a look at the main factors that influence the cost of your move.
1. The Size of Your Move
The biggest factor is simply how much needs to be moved.
A one-bedroom flat will usually require less time, fewer movers and a smaller vehicle than a four-bedroom family home. The more furniture, boxes and belongings you have, the larger the removal team and vehicle required.
This is why we always recommend a survey before providing a quotation.
2. Distance Between Properties
The distance between your old and new home plays a significant role.
Local moves within Cambridgeshire are generally quicker than long-distance relocations across the UK, where additional fuel, travel time and driver hours all need to be considered.
Whether you’re moving a few streets away or across the country, we’ll provide a tailored quotation based on your journey.
3. Property Access
Easy access helps keep your move efficient.
Factors that may affect the cost include:
- Upper-floor flats without a lift
- Long walking distances from the van
- Narrow roads or restricted parking
- Steep driveways
- Limited loading or unloading areas
The easier it is for our team to access your property, the quicker your move can usually be completed.
4. Packing Services
Many customers choose to pack themselves, while others prefer our professional packing service.
If you’d like us to supply packing materials or professionally pack some or all of your belongings, this will be included within your quotation.
Professional packing not only saves time but also provides added protection for fragile items during transit.
5. Furniture Dismantling and Reassembly
Large furniture such as beds, wardrobes and dining tables often needs to be dismantled before transport.
If you’d like our team to dismantle and reassemble furniture as part of your move, we’ll include this within your quotation so you know exactly what’s included.
6. Specialist or Heavy Items
Some items require additional care, equipment or manpower.
Examples include:
- Pianos
- American-style fridge freezers
- Large safes
- Gym equipment
- Antique or valuable furniture
Let us know about any specialist items during your survey so we can plan accordingly.
7. Storage Requirements
If you’re unable to move directly into your new property, you may need temporary storage.
We can safely collect your belongings, place them into secure storage and deliver them whenever you’re ready, with storage costs included within your quotation.
8. Moving Date
The time of year and your preferred moving date can also influence availability.
Fridays, weekends, school holidays and month-end dates are often the busiest times for removal companies, so booking early is always recommended to secure your preferred date.
9. Waiting Time
Occasionally, delays can occur that are outside anyone’s control.
For example:
- Waiting for keys from solicitors
- Delayed property completions
- Restricted access at the new property
We’ll always explain any potential waiting charges in advance, so there are no unexpected costs.
Why We Carry Out a Survey
Every move is different.
That’s why we offer free home surveys, either in person, via live video call or by reviewing a video sent to us on WhatsApp.
This allows us to:
- Provide an accurate quotation
- Recommend the right size vehicle
- Allocate the correct number of movers
- Identify any access issues
- Discuss any additional services you may require
By carrying out a survey first, we can ensure your moving day runs as smoothly as possible.
Get Your Free Removal Quote
If you’re planning a move, Phoenix Removals offers free, no-obligation quotations throughout Cambridge, Ely, Peterborough, St Neots, Huntingdon and the surrounding areas.
Our friendly team will assess your move, answer any questions and provide a transparent quotation with no hidden costs.
Get in touch today to arrange your free removal survey and see how we can help make your next move a success.

