Best Man and Van Services in the UK 

Moving Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

Moving house can feel overwhelming, even if you’re only relocating a flat, student room, or a few key pieces of furniture. That’s where man and van services shine. They provide vans large enough to carry your belongings, yet nimble enough to navigate tight streets and parking spots.

With more people moving between flats, towns, and postcodes in 2025 due to flexible work and short-term rentals, man and van services have become increasingly popular. Unlike traditional removal companies that quote as if you’re moving a mansion, these services offer fast, affordable, and practical solutions.

However, service quality can vary. Some providers are professional, polite, and efficient. Others… not so much. To save you time, we’ve compiled a list of the UK’s most trusted man and van services, based on reviews, forums, and verified customer experiences.

Whether you’re moving across London, shifting a few boxes from Birmingham to Bristol, or simply don’t want to drive a van yourself, this guide will help you choose the right service.

AnyVan – UK-Wide Marketplace with Instant Quotes

Overview:
AnyVan is one of the UK’s most well-known man and van platforms. It works as a marketplace connecting you with vetted movers nationwide. Simply enter your pickup and drop-off locations, list your items, and receive instant quotes. Many customers book same-day or next-day moves.

Customer Feedback:

• “Booked a driver the night before — he arrived on time, helped carry everything, and even handled an extra stop.” – Mel R., Nottingham

• “The driver came with blankets and straps, packed everything safely, and saved us extra trips.” – Yasmin A., Croydon

Pros:

• Instant pricing and online quotes

• Driver ratings and reviews

• Nationwide coverage

• Real-time tracking

Cons:

• Quality varies by driver

• Extra charges may apply for stairs or additional stops

Best For: Renters, students, and anyone needing fast, convenient city-to-city moves.

Man with a Van London – Reliable Local Movers

Overview:
A small, trusted team of London-based movers offering no-nonsense service. Perfect for studio flats, single items, or short-distance relocations within London.

Customer Feedback:

• “They rescued me after another mover cancelled. Two guys moved me from Dalston to Brixton in 90 minutes.” – Rhys T., London

• “Straightforward quote, cash payment, and helpful with furniture assembly.” – Naomi F., Islington

Pros: Local expertise, flexible, affordable, and reliable
Cons: Limited to London; not suitable for long-distance moves

Best For: Londoners looking for trustworthy, personal service without unnecessary fuss.

Shift – App-Based Man & Van for Urban Movers

Overview:
Shift brings an “Uber-style” approach to moving. Choose van size, enter your addresses, and book instantly via the app. Two-person crews are available for heavier loads.

Customer Feedback:

• “Moving in Manchester was easier than ordering food. The driver wrapped everything, even the TV.” – Marcus L., Salford

• “Everything was simple and stress-free through the app.” – Saira M., Birmingham

Pros: App-based, instant quotes, same-day availability
Cons: Not available in all towns; prices can surge at peak times

Best For: Young professionals, students, and tech-savvy movers in big cities.

Tom’s Vans – Friendly Movers with Care

Overview:
Operating in Brighton, Bristol, London, and Bath, Tom’s Vans focuses on careful handling and personal service rather than speed or lowest prices. Offers packing, padding, and light assembly.

Customer Feedback:

• “Always on time, polite, and treated my things with care.” – Ellie C., Brighton

• “Gentle, respectful, and reliable service for elderly moves.” – Jamie W., Bristol

Pros: Caring, professional, full-service options
Cons: Limited coverage, requires advance booking

Best For: Those who value personal touch and careful handling.

Compare the Man and Van – Price Comparison Platform

Overview:
A UK-wide platform allowing you to compare multiple quotes instantly. Fully insured and rated movers. Fixed pricing reduces surprises.

Customer Feedback:

• “Had 5 offers in 20 minutes; my mover was early and professional.” – Lewis B., Leeds

• “Booking was quick, and everything arrived safely.” – Hannah T., Manchester

Pros: Transparent pricing, multiple quotes, online booking
Cons: Some drivers work solo; prices vary by timing

Best For: Budget-conscious movers seeking multiple options without haggling.

Small Van and Man – Budget-Friendly Light Moves

Overview:
Specialises in small relocations, like a few boxes, a desk, or flat-pack furniture. Covers Greater London, Essex, Kent, and Surrey.

Customer Feedback:

• “Moved 8 boxes for half the price of other quotes. Fast and friendly service.” – Dee A., Stratford

Pros: Affordable, flexible, local
Cons: Limited to light loads, not suitable for full flats

Best For: Students, minimalists, or anyone moving just the essentials.

Van Man Removals – Trusted South West Team

Overview:
Serving Exeter, Devon, and nearby towns, offering careful handling, packing, and two-person crews.

Customer Feedback:

• “Almost enjoyable move. Friendly, professional, and careful.” – Molly W., Exeter

Pros: Experienced, personable, local knowledge
Cons: Regional only, may require advance booking

Best For: Residents in South West England seeking a reliable, hands-on team.

Man with a Van Scotland – Reliable Moves Across Scotland

Overview:
Handles both city and rural moves across Scotland. Known for dealing with tight staircases, old buildings, and long-distance hauls.

Customer Feedback:

• “Came through snow to help us move, wrapped everything, and made the process stress-free.” – Isla T., Kirkcaldy

Pros: Local expertise, flexible, reliable
Cons: Scotland only, book early for remote locations

Best For: Movers in Scotland needing experienced, dependable teams.

How to Choose the Right Service

1. Assess your load – Boxes only? Full flat? Van size and crew depend on this.

2. Check lifting help – Solo drivers may need assistance; two-person teams are safer.

3. Timing – Same-day or planned in advance?

4. Confirm inclusions – Stairs, stops, and waiting time may incur extra charges.

5. Location matters – City vs. rural coverage differs.

6. Read reviews – Google, Trustpilot, and photos reveal real service quality.

FAQs

1. Cost: £30–£60/hour for light moves, £80–£500 for larger or long-distance moves.
2. Difference from traditional removals: Smaller scale, faster, more flexible, usually without full packing or insurance.
3. Help lifting: Some include it; always check.
4. Last-minute booking: Possible on platforms like AnyVan or Shift.
5. Insurance: Varies; confirm before moving valuables.
6. Van size: Small for 5–10 boxes, medium for studio/1-bed, large for 2-bed+ flats.
7. Multiple stops: Usually possible, but mention upfront.