If you’re planning a move and wondering about the packing service cost, you’re not alone. Many people search for the average cost of packing services to better plan their relocation budget. Whether you’re looking for a full packing service or just need help with fragile items, understanding moving company packing rates can help you make informed decisions. Most professional packing services include essentials like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap, but the total cost depends on the service level, your home size, and whether materials are included in the quote.
What is a Packing Service?
A packing service is a professional solution offered by removal companies to safely prepare your belongings for transport. Whether you are moving house or relocating your office, packing specialists handle everything from wrapping fragile items to boxing up furniture and personal items. This service ensures your possessions are protected during transit, saving you time, effort, and stress.
Packing services are especially popular for busy households and businesses looking for a seamless move. Depending on your needs, you can choose between full packing service (everything packed for you) or fragile-only packing for breakable items.
Factors That Affect Packing Service Cost
The cost of packing services can vary widely depending on several important factors. Whether you are moving a small flat or a large family home, understanding these elements can help you estimate what to expect and avoid hidden surprises.
Home Size
The overall size of your property plays a big role in determining packing costs. A one-bedroom flat will require fewer materials and less time compared to a three or four-bedroom house. Larger homes often involve more rooms, more furniture, and more fragile items, all of which increase the time, effort, and staff required for packing.
This directly affects the average price for packing and moving, as more space typically means more boxes, wrapping, and labor.
Belongings Volume
Even in a smaller home, the total volume of items to be packed can drive up the cost. Homes filled with personal collections, books, kitchenware, or breakables take longer to pack and require more care and materials. On the other hand, minimal households may only need a few hours of packing support, lowering the overall charge.
Packing Type
You can choose between
- A full packing service, where everything is packed by the removal team
- A fragile-only service, focusing on delicate items like glassware, electronics, or ornaments
A full packaging service usually costs more but saves you time and effort. Some customers choose to handle basic packing themselves and hire pros only for breakables, helping balance quality and affordability.
Deciding between self-pack vs. full-pack cost is a smart way to control your moving budget.
Packing Materials
Some companies include moving supplies in their pricing, such as boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and labels. Others may charge for these separately or allow you to supply your own.
If materials are not included, you may spend an additional £30–£100+ depending on the amount needed. Always check whether packing materials are included or billed separately before confirming the service.
Hourly Rate vs. Flat Fee
Packing services are typically priced using one of two methods:
- Hourly Rate: Ideal for smaller jobs or partial packing help. Rates usually fall between £25–£60 per hour, depending on the crew size and experience.
- Flat Fee: A fixed packing service cost based on the size of your home and type of service requested. This is popular for full-home packing, as it offers a clear total price with no surprises.
Whether you choose hourly or flat-rate pricing, understanding how the service is billed can help you compare options and plan ahead.
Complete Packing Service Price Guide
Understanding professional packing charges in the UK or any country can help you plan your move more confidently. Below is a general pricing guide to help you estimate the cost based on common home sizes and service types.
Sample Pricing by Property Size
| Property Type | Service Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Flat | Partial Packing | £100–£150 |
| 1-Bedroom Flat | Full Packing | £180–£250 |
| 2-Bedroom Home | Full Packing | £250–£350 |
| 3-Bedroom Home | Full Packing | £350–£500 |
| 4+ Bedroom Home | Packing | £500+ |
These estimates include standard packing materials (boxes, tape, bubble wrap), though some companies may bill materials separately.
Per Hour Packing Service Rates
If you only need help with certain areas or specific items like Man with a Van Mitcham, you can opt for hourly packing services. This is ideal for partial moves or when you’re packing alongside the professionals.
- packer – from £25–£30/hour
- packers – from £45–£60/hour
These rates reflect average moving company packing rates and may vary based on location, staff experience, and service quality.
Optional Add-Ons
Many removals companies offer extra services at an additional charge, including
- Fragile item packing only – from £80
- Wardrobe boxes for clothing – from £10 each
- Mattress covers, TV boxes, or artwork protection – priced individually
- Unpacking service at destination – quoted upon request
These optional services can help protect valuable items and make your move smoother, especially if you’re short on time.
What’s Included in a Full Packing Service?
A full packing service is designed to take the stress out of moving by handling everything from start to finish. It’s especially useful for busy households, large homes, or anyone who wants to ensure their belongings are packed professionally and securely. Here’s what’s typically included:
All Packing Materials Provided
- A complete service comes with all necessary packing materials, including:
- Strong cardboard boxes in various sizes
- Bubble wrap and packing paper
- Heavy-duty packing tape
- Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
- Protective covers for mattresses or sofas (if needed)
You won’t need to supply anything yourself, the crew brings everything required.
Furniture Wrapping and Protection
Large or delicate furniture items are wrapped and protected to prevent damage during handling or transport. This may include:
- Shrink-wrapping sofas or armchairs
- Covering dining tables and bed frames with padded blankets
- Dismantling and wrapping parts that can’t be moved whole
This process is handled by experienced packing specialists who know how to protect high-value furniture.
Labelling and Room Sorting
As items are packed, each box is labeled by room and contents. This makes unpacking faster and more organized. For example:
- Kitchen: Plates & Glasses
- Bedroom: Clothing
- Living Room: Books
Clear labeling ensures your belongings go to the right place at your new home.
Fragile and High-Value Item Packing
Professional crews take extra care with fragile and valuable items such as
- Glassware and ceramics
- Electronics
- Artwork or mirrors
- Jewelry or collectibles (where permitted)
These items are carefully wrapped with bubble wrap or paper and placed in secure boxes, often with padding or custom inserts.
Self-Pack vs. Full-Pack: Which Is More Effective Packing Service Cost?
If you’re trying to decide between doing it yourself or hiring professionals, comparing the self-pack vs. full-pack cost side-by-side can help. Here’s a quick overview:
| Feature | Self-Pack | Full-Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Packing Materials Included | You buy them separately | Included in service |
| Time Required | Several days | One day (on average) |
| Risk of Damage | Higher (less secure packing) | Lower (done by trained staff) |
| Stress Level | High | Minimal |
| Best For | Budget-conscious movers | Busy families, office relocations |
While self-packing may appear cheaper, it often demands days of effort—especially for families, offices, or those juggling busy schedules.
In contrast, a full packing service saves valuable time by handling everything efficiently, often within a single day. Many companies offering affordable packing services near me also provide flexible options like partial or fragile-only packing.
For busy families, office relocations, or elderly individuals needing extra help, the added cost of a full service is often worth the speed, convenience, and reduced stress it brings.
Why Hire Professional Packers?
Hiring professional packers transforms the moving experience by replacing stress with speed, care, and efficiency. Trained teams follow proven systems to pack quickly and securely what might take you days, they finish in hours.
With experience handling everything from fragile glassware to heavy furniture, they minimize the risk of damage using the right materials and techniques. Their knowledge of moving logistics, including tight spaces, stairs, or access limits, ensures smooth coordination with the removals team and avoids unnecessary delays.
FAQs
Yes, many companies offer packing-only services. It’s a great option if you need help packing but plan to move, store, or ship your items yourself.
The extra cost is often worth it for busy families, elderly people, or fast office moves. It saves time, lowers stress, and ensures safe packing.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a reliable and affordable packing service, get in touch with our team today. We offer quick quotes, clear pricing, and a professional packing team ready to make your move easier. Whether you need full packing or help with just a few items, we’re here to help.
