Moving from London to Manchester

Professional mover loading boxes into a van during a London to Manchester house removal with packed furniture and belongings outside a home.

Relocating from London to Manchester is one of the most common long-distance moves in the UK today. Whether it’s for a new job, more affordable housing, or a better quality of life, Manchester offers an exciting alternative to the capital. But making a move of over 200 miles requires more than just loading boxes into a van – it takes planning, coordination, and a professional removals company you can trust.

We’ve supported many families and individuals making the move from London to Manchester, so we understand the worries that often come with it – from costs and logistics to the unknowns of starting life in a new city. That’s why we’ve put together this guide: to help you plan with confidence and settle into your new home without unnecessary stress.

How far is London from Manchester and what does the journey involve?

The distance between London and Manchester is approximately 220 miles by road, most commonly along the M1 and M6 motorways. Depending on traffic, the journey usually takes 4–6 hours. Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings are peak congestion times, so professional removal companies plan carefully to avoid unnecessary delays.

Because this is a long-distance removal, your moving cost reflects not just mileage but also staff hours, fuel, and logistics. A reliable removals team will typically manage the entire process in a single day for small to medium homes, while larger properties may require additional time or overnight arrangements.How far is London from Manchester and what does the journey involve?

The distance between London and Manchester is approximately 220 miles by road, most commonly along the M1 and M6 motorways. Depending on traffic, the journey usually takes 4–6 hours. Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings are peak congestion times, so professional removal companies plan carefully to avoid unnecessary delays.

Because this is a long-distance removal, your moving cost reflects not just mileage but also staff hours, fuel, and logistics. A reliable removals team will typically manage the entire process in a single day for small to medium homes, while larger properties may require additional time or overnight arrangements.

Large removals lorry driving along the motorway during a long-distance move from London to Manchester at sunset.

How much does it cost to move from London to Manchester?

Every person or family we move is unique, and so are their moving costs. The price depends on the size of your home, the level of service, and the timing of your move. Here’s what you can expect in 2025:

  • 1-bedroom flat: £500–£1,000

  • 2-bedroom home: £1,000–£1,550

  • 3-bedroom house: £1,400–£2,100

  • 4-bedroom house: £1,900–£2,900

Additional services that affect cost

  • Professional packing service: £150–£350

  • Furniture dismantling and reassembly: £75–£200

  • Temporary storage solutions: £25–£50 per week

  • MoveProtect cover: from £75–£350, offering protection for your belongings up to £50,000 during the move

Factors that influence the price

  • Volume and weight of belongings

  • Access issues such as narrow London streets or high-rise apartments in Manchester

  • Parking permits for removal vans (£60–£110 per day in central London)

  • Seasonality — weekends and month-end dates are often more expensive

  • Part-load or backload services, where you share van space, can reduce costs by 25–40%

Being flexible with dates and decluttering before you move are two of the simplest ways to keep costs under control.

House model with calculator, notebook and pen symbolising the cost planning and budgeting for a house removal.

What professional removals services are available?

A move of this scale calls for a managed service rather than a simple man-and-van hire. Professional removals companies like TMS provide tailored solutions, including:

  • Full-service removals – complete packing, loading, transport, and unloading.

  • Part-load or shared load removals – cost-efficient for smaller moves or flexible timelines.

  • Storage options – secure facilities for short- or long-term storage if your move-in date doesn’t match your move-out date.

  • Packing and unpacking – with high-quality packing materials to protect fragile or bulky items.

  • MoveProtect cover – peace of mind for your most valuable possessions.

These services are designed to minimise disruption and ensure that your move is coordinated, secure, and efficient from start to finish.

To see how our team can support you beyond transport alone, take a look at our packing services, which many customers combine with their removals package for a complete, stress-free move. Or, if you’d prefer to handle the packing yourself, you can order all the moving boxes and supplies you need directly from us.

Professional movers packing boxes and handling household items during a managed removals service.

London to Manchester moving checklist

Long-distance moves are less stressful when you break them into steps. Here’s a timeline to guide you:

6–8 weeks before your move

  • Declutter and sell or donate unwanted items

  • Request and compare quotes from removal companies

  • Check if parking permits are required for removal vans in London

2–4 weeks before

  • Start packing non-essential items

  • Notify your utility providers and broadband company

  • Finalise school or GP transfers if applicable

1 week before

  • Pack essentials separately (documents, toiletries, chargers, key clothing)

  • Confirm moving day details with your removals team

  • Redirect post with Royal Mail

On moving day

  • Keep valuables and documents with you

  • Reserve a parking space for the removals vehicle

  • Do a final walkthrough before handing over keys

If you want a more detailed approach, we’ve put together a guide on the essential questions to consider before relocating, which many of our clients find helpful when planning bigger moves.

Living room filled with moving boxes, furniture and household items prepared for a house removal.

Comparing life in Manchester and London

For many, the decision to move is about lifestyle as much as cost. In 2025, Manchester is significantly more affordable:

  • Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom flat in Manchester city centre averages £1,050 per month, compared to £2,100 in London.

  • Transport: A monthly travel pass is around £85 in Manchester versus £211 in London.

  • Everyday costs: Groceries, dining out, and childcare are all lower in Manchester.

Lifestyle benefits of Manchester

  • A compact, walkable city centre with excellent transport links.

  • A growing reputation as the UK’s tech and media hub.

  • Thriving cultural scene with music, sport, and nightlife.

  • Popular neighbourhoods for former Londoners include Didsbury, Ancoats, and Chorlton.

The move north often results in shorter commutes, more space, and a better work–life balance.

For those weighing up the emotional and practical sides of relocating, our guide on moving to a new town in the UK shares useful insights and real-life advice.

Manchester city centre with tram at Piccadilly, modern skyline and historic buildings at dusk.

FAQs about moving from London to Manchester

How much does it cost to move from London to Manchester?

Prices generally range from £700 for a small flat to nearly £3,000 for larger homes. The final figure depends on factors like volume, distance, services chosen, and access at both properties. For many families, part-load options or flexible scheduling can reduce these costs considerably.

Is Manchester cheaper to live in than London?

Yes, substantially. Housing and transport are the biggest savings, but everyday costs like groceries and childcare also add up. Many Londoners find they can afford more space in Manchester without increasing their monthly outgoings.

How long does a removal from London to Manchester take?

A straightforward move usually lasts between 6 and 10 hours. This includes loading, the journey itself, and unloading at your new property. Larger homes or heavy traffic on the M6 may extend the timeline, so professional planning is key.

What’s the most affordable way to move?

Choosing a part-load or backload service is usually the most economical, especially for smaller households or flexible movers. These services let you share van space with others on the same route, lowering your costs without compromising quality.

Do movers in the UK expect tips?

Tipping isn’t compulsory, but it’s a common way to thank your crew for their hard work. A typical gesture is £10–£20 per mover, depending on the size and complexity of the job. Most crews greatly appreciate it.

How many boxes are needed for a 3-bedroom house?

On average, expect between 60 and 80 boxes. The exact number depends on your household size and how much you declutter before packing. Families with children or large book collections, for example, may need even more.

Are more people moving to Manchester from London?

Yes, the trend continues to grow. Rising rents in London combined with Manchester’s strong job market in tech, media, and healthcare are drawing many professionals north. Recent reports show Manchester remains one of the top relocation destinations for Londoners in 2025.

Family with children unloading boxes from a removals van outside their new home after a long-distance move.

Why choose Total Moving Solutions

At Total Moving Solutions, we specialise in fully managed long-distance removals. Moving from London to Manchester is a complex process, but our team ensures it runs smoothly.

We provide:

  • Tailored removal options, from part-load savings to complete full-service packages.

  • Secure storage facilities when your moving dates don’t align.

  • Professional packing, dismantling, and reassembly services.

  • MoveProtect cover and a nationwide network of accredited partners.

  • Recognition as a MoveAssured-approved company, giving you confidence in our standards.

  • A dedicated move manager to oversee every stage of your relocation.

With years of experience in UK and international relocations, TMS offers a trusted, transparent service that removes the stress from moving.

Get your free removals quote from London to Manchester today

Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or lifestyle, TMS is here to make your London to Manchester move seamless, safe, and stress-free. Get in touch today and one of our dedicated move managers will provide all the information you need and guide you through the process from start to finish.