Apartment Moves: How Many Movers For Your Man & Van?
- The London Man And Van

- Dec 24, 2025
- 4 min read

Moving apartments in London? One of the biggest questions, besides "how am I going to pack all of this?", is "How many movers do I actually need?" Overestimate, and you're paying for extra help you don't need. Underestimate, and you're looking at a move that drags on forever, costing you more in the long run, not to mention the added stress. Figuring out the optimal [Apartment Moves: Crew Size Efficiency] is crucial for a smooth and cost-effective relocation with a man and van service. This guide will help you determine the right number of movers for your specific apartment move.
Assessing Your Moving Needs: A Detailed Breakdown
Before calling The London Man And Van, take a good hard look at what you're moving. This isn't just about counting boxes; it's about assessing the size, weight, and difficulty of moving your possessions.
Inventory Assessment: Size and Volume
The first step is a thorough inventory. Are you moving from a studio, a one-bedroom flat, or a larger apartment? This makes a huge difference.
Studio Apartment: Usually, one or two movers are sufficient, especially if you've already done some packing.
One-Bedroom Flat: Two movers are generally ideal. They can handle furniture and boxes efficiently.
Two-Bedroom Apartment: This often requires two to three movers, particularly if you have larger furniture pieces or a significant amount of belongings.
Three-Bedroom+ Apartment: For larger apartments, consider three or four movers to expedite the process and prevent delays.
Furniture Considerations: Weight and Bulk
Heavy or bulky items significantly impact the number of movers needed.
Large Sofas and Sectionals: These require at least two people to maneuver safely.
King-Size Beds: Disassembling and moving a king-size bed is a two-person job, minimum.
Appliances (Washer, Dryer, Fridge): These are heavy and often require specialized equipment and experienced movers. Always clarify with your moving company if they can handle appliances.
Wardrobes and Bookcases: If fully assembled, these require extra care and manpower. Consider disassembling them if possible (we even offer handyman services for assembly and disassembly).
Access and Logistics: Stairs, Lifts, and Parking
Don't forget to factor in the logistical challenges of your apartment building.
Stairs: Apartments located on upper floors without lifts will always require more manpower, as moving items up and down stairs is time-consuming and physically demanding. Factor in an extra mover, especially if you have heavy items.
Lifts: If there's a lift, consider its size. Will it accommodate larger furniture items? If not, some items might still need to be carried via stairs.
Parking: Limited parking near your building can slow down the moving process. Movers may have to walk longer distances, increasing the overall time and potentially requiring more personnel. The London Man And Van always considers the fastest routes, but parking restrictions can still impact efficiency.
Narrow Hallways and Doorways: These can make maneuvering furniture difficult, requiring extra care and possibly more manpower.
Optimizing [How Many Movers Do You Need for a Man And Van Job?]
Now that you've assessed your needs, let's look at how to optimize the crew size. Remember, more isn't always better. A well-coordinated team is more efficient than a large, disorganized one.
The "One Mover and a Van" Scenario
While tempting for cost savings, a single mover and a van are best suited for very small moves – think student moves with a minimal amount of belongings or single-item deliveries. Attempting to move a whole apartment with just one person will be incredibly time-consuming and physically demanding, likely leading to damage or delays.
The "Two Movers and a Van" Sweet Spot
For most apartment moves, especially one- and two-bedroom flats, two movers and a van offer the best balance of speed, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. They can handle furniture, boxes, and navigate stairs and lifts reasonably well. This is our most popular option at The London Man And Van because it provides a solid moving solution without breaking the bank.
When to Opt for Three or More Movers
Consider three or more movers in the following situations:
You're moving from a larger apartment (two bedrooms or more).
You have a lot of heavy or bulky furniture.
Your apartment is on a high floor with no lift.
You need to move quickly.
Beyond Manpower: Other Factors to Consider
While crew size is critical, other factors contribute to a successful apartment move.
Packing: Proper packing is crucial. Use sturdy boxes, wrap fragile items carefully, and label everything clearly. The London Man And Van also offers professional packing and unpacking services to take the stress out of this process.
Disassembly and Assembly: Disassembling furniture makes it easier to move. Our handyman services include furniture assembly and disassembly.
Communication: Clear communication with your moving team is essential. Point out fragile items, provide clear instructions, and address any concerns promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an accurate quote for my apartment move?
Provide as much detail as possible about your belongings, apartment size, and any access challenges when requesting a quote. Accurate information helps us provide a more precise estimate.
What if I underestimate the number of movers I need?
If you realize mid-move that you need more help, contact The London Man And Van immediately. We will do our best to dispatch additional movers, but availability may vary.
Can I save money by helping with the move myself?
While you can help with smaller items, leaving the heavy lifting to the professionals is generally safer and more efficient. It also reduces the risk of injury or damage.
Do I need to tip the movers?
Tipping is customary in the UK for good service. If you are happy with the work, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated.
What happens if something gets damaged during the move?
The London Man And Van is fully insured with Goods in Transit and Public Liability Insurance. We will work with you to resolve any damage claims quickly and fairly.
Choosing the right number of movers for your apartment move is a balancing act. By carefully assessing your needs, considering logistical challenges, and working with a reputable company like The London Man And Van, you can ensure a smooth, efficient, and stress-free relocation. For some extra insight, be sure to check out our related blog post Man & Van: Can They Move Heavy Furniture in London Flats?. Contact us today for a free quote and let us handle the heavy lifting!








