Find the best man and van services in the UK for 2025. Affordable, reliable movers for small moves, student relocations, and local or long-distance shifts.
Affordable Reliable & Stress Free Moves– Best Man and Van Services in the UK
Moving house doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. You don’t always need a large removals company with multiple trucks — sometimes, you just need a small van and a reliable mover. That’s where man and van services come in: affordable, practical, and perfect for small-scale moves, student relocations, and furniture transport.
In 2025, demand for these services is higher than ever. With rising rents, short-term leases, and flexible working arrangements, more people are moving between flats and cities. Traditional removal companies can be expensive and over-complicated, but man and van services keep it simple: book, load, drive, and unload.
However, not all services are the same. Some are dependable, careful, and great with stairs and fragile items. Others can make moving day stressful. To save you time, we’ve rounded up the most trusted man and van services in the UK for 2025 — based on customer reviews, reputation, and reliability.
1. AnyVan – The UK’s Most Popular Man & Van Platform
If you’ve searched for “man and van near me,” you’ve likely come across AnyVan. It works as a marketplace where you can instantly get quotes from movers nationwide.
Key Features:
- Instant online pricing
- Real-time driver tracking
- UK-wide coverage
- Transparent reviews and ratings
Pros: Easy to book, reliable coverage, perfect for last-minute moves
Cons: Quality may vary between drivers, extra costs for stairs/stops
Best For: Students, renters, or anyone needing same-day UK-wide service.
2. Man with a Van London – Reliable Local Movers
For Londoners, Man with a Van London offers straightforward, no-nonsense moving help. Known for punctuality and fair pricing, this independent team specialises in local moves across Greater London.
Pros: Local knowledge, affordable pricing, flexible scheduling
Cons: Limited to London only
Best For: Small flat moves, single-item hauls, and stress-free London relocations.
3. Shift – App-Based Man & Van Service
Think of Shift as the Uber of moving. You book through the app, select your van size, and get an instant price. Same-day bookings are often available.
Pros: Easy-to-use app, same-day availability, instant pricing
Cons: Limited to major cities, surge pricing at peak times
Best For: Tech-savvy users, young professionals, and last-minute city moves.
4. Tom’s Vans – Friendly and Professional Local Service
Starting in Brighton, Tom’s Vans has built a loyal following thanks to their personal touch. They offer careful loading, padding, packing, and even light furniture assembly.
Pros: Polite and professional team, packing services, clear pricing
Cons: Limited to Brighton, Bristol, Bath, and London
Best For: Families, downsizers, or anyone needing careful handling of belongings.
5. Compare the Man and Van – Get Multiple Quotes Fast
This platform is like a price comparison site for moving. Compare the Man and Van lets you view quotes from multiple drivers instantly, along with their reviews.
Pros: Transparent fixed pricing, quick comparisons, nationwide coverage
Cons: Some drivers work solo, meaning you may need to help with lifting
Best For: Budget-conscious movers who want to find the best deal fast.
6. Small Van and Man – Affordable for Light Moves
Not all moves involve sofas and wardrobes. Small Van and Man specialises in smaller, budget-friendly jobs around Greater London, Essex, Kent, and Surrey.
Pros: Affordable pricing, flexible and friendly, great for students
Cons: Not suitable for large moves, limited coverage
Best For: Students, minimalists, or single-item moves.
7. Van Man Removals – Trusted in the South West
Based in Exeter, Van Man Removals has become a go-to service for residents across Devon and the South West. They’re known for friendly movers and professional care.
Pros: Experienced local team, two-person crews, strong reputation
Cons: Only available in the South West
Best For: Residents of Exeter, Devon, and nearby towns looking for local experts.
8. Man with a Van Scotland – Reliable for Local & Rural Moves
Scotland’s moving challenges — long distances, rural routes, and city tenements — are exactly what this team handles best. Man with a Van Scotland operates across Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, and the Highlands.
Pros: Handles both rural and urban moves, affordable, hardworking team
Cons: Only available in Scotland
Best For: Scottish movers who need local knowledge and flexible service.
Quick Comparison: Which Service Suits You?
| Service | Coverage | Booking Type | Crew Options | Starting Price | Best For |
| AnyVan | Nationwide | Online/App | 1–2 movers | £35+ | Same-day UK-wide moves |
| Man with a Van London | London | Call/Message | 1–2 movers | £30–£50/hr | London flat moves |
| Shift | Major cities | App-based | 1–2 movers | £40+ | Tech-friendly, urgent moves |
| Tom’s Vans | Brighton, Bristol, Bath, London | Phone/Form | 1–2 movers | £45–£60/hr | Careful, family-friendly moves |
| Compare the Man & Van | Nationwide | Website | 1–2 movers | £30+ | Budget-friendly comparisons |
| Small Van and Man | Greater London + SE | Call/Text | 1 mover | £25–£35/hr | Small/light moves |
| Van Man Removals | South West | Phone/Website | 1–2 movers | £40–£55/hr | Local Exeter/Devon moves |
| Man with a Van Scotland | Scotland | Phone/Email | 1–2 movers | £30–£50/hr | Scottish moves, urban & rural |
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Man and Van Service
- Know Your Load Size – Small van for 5–10 boxes, medium for a 1-bed flat, large for 2+ bed flats.
- Decide on Help Needed – Some drivers work solo, others bring crews. Confirm in advance.
- Check What’s Included – Stairs, multiple stops, waiting time, and congestion charges may cost extra.
- Timing – Need same-day? Try AnyVan, Shift, or Compare. Want careful pre-booking? Go with Tom’s Vans or Van Man Removals.
- Read Reviews – Independent reviews on Google and Trustpilot reveal whether the mover is reliable.
FAQs – Man and Van Services UK 2025
1. How much does a man and van cost in the UK?
On average, £30–£60/hr for light local moves, £80–£200+ for flat moves, and £150–£500 for long-distance.
2. What’s the difference between man and van vs removals?
Man and van = small, budget-friendly moves. Removals = larger, full-house moves with packing services.
3. Do movers help with lifting?
Some do, some don’t. Solo operators may expect your help. Always check before booking.
4. Can I book last-minute?
Yes. Platforms like AnyVan, Shift, or Compare often allow same-day bookings.
5. Are these services insured?
Some are, but not all. Always confirm goods-in-transit and liability cover if moving valuables.
Final Word
The right man and van service can make your move smooth, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re a student moving a few boxes or relocating a small flat, there’s a trusted provider to suit your needs. Always compare, check reviews, and confirm details upfront — your belongings (and your back) will thank you.
