Moving from London to Berlin
Berlin draws UK movers with its creative scene, relatively affordable rents and strong job market. It is a comfortable two-leg road move — across the Channel and through the Netherlands or Belgium into Germany.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from London to Berlin?
| Home size | Shared load | Dedicated vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1-bed | £1,300 – £2,800 | £2,300 – £4,000 |
| 2-bed | £1,900 – £3,500 | £3,000 – £5,000 |
| 3-bed | £3,200 – £5,800 | £4,700 – £7,800 |
| 4+ bed | £4,700 – £8,500 | £6,600 – £11,000 |
Prices include packing, the crossing, transport and delivery. Berlin's Altbau apartments — high ceilings, upper floors, often no lift — can add carrying time.
What affects the price
- Volume in cubic metres.
- Access — many flats are 3rd–5th floor walk-ups; an outdoor furniture lift (Möbelaufzug) is common in Berlin.
- Shared vs dedicated transport.
- Timing — end of month and summer are busiest.
How Long Does It Take?
| Service | Typical transit |
|---|---|
| Dedicated vehicle | 2 – 4 days |
| Shared / part load | 1 – 3 weeks |
Customs & Paperwork After Brexit
A move to Berlin is an EU import: valued inventory, proof of address and a residence permit or registration. Used goods owned 6+ months are usually duty- and VAT-free under transfer of residence. After arrival you must complete your Anmeldung (address registration) within two weeks. Full detail in our Moving from the UK to Germany guide.
Best Areas in Berlin for UK Movers
- Prenzlauer Berg — leafy, family-friendly, café culture.
- Kreuzberg & Neukölln — creative, multicultural, nightlife.
- Friedrichshain — young, lively, good transport.
- Charlottenburg — classic west Berlin, quieter and greener.
- Mitte — central and convenient but pricier.
The Moving Process Step by Step
- Book a video survey and get 3 itemised quotes.
- Prepare inventory and residence paperwork.
- Book a furniture lift if your flat is a high walk-up.
- Declutter and pack.
- Collection in London.
- Road transport to Berlin.
- Delivery, then complete your Anmeldung.
How to Save Money
- Declutter and sell heavy furniture.
- Choose a shared load for flexible dates.
- Avoid month-end and summer peaks.
- Book a mover with regular Germany backloads.
Choosing an International Remover
Choose BAR Overseas / FIDI members with German routes, transit insurance and clear pricing. Benchmark the London leg with our calculator.