Introduction (Bottom Line Up Front)
Moving to France yourself with a man and van might seem like the cheapest option, but the hidden costs and complications often make hybrid professional services more cost-effective. In fact, once you add up everything – van hire, fuel, ferry tickets, lodging, and the value of your time – a DIY move typically runs £800–£1,200. By comparison, professional removals can start from around £789 for a small part-load (e.g. a few m³ of belongings) and up to a couple of thousand for larger moves. The cheapest option often isn’t actually cheapest after all when those “extra” expenses pile on. Below, we’ll break down the real costs of a DIY man with a van move, explain what you’re paying for with professional services, and show how a smart hybrid approach – you pack your goods and let pros handle the heavy lifting, transport and paperwork – can save you money and stress.


















