A move in Berlin can vary depending on the size of the apartment, the distance and the services chosen. vary greatlyWhile a small move with your own van remains relatively inexpensive, moving companies, new furniture or additional services quickly drive up costsIn this article we explain, which cost factors need to be considered and how you can move cheaply.
1. What cost factors influence moving in Berlin?
📦 1. Apartment size & moving volume
✅ A larger apartment means more furniture & boxes – this affects the transport costs.
✅ Rule of thumb: The more rooms, the higher the moving costs.
🚛 2. Distance & type of move
✅ Moving within Berlin: Shorter routes & lower transport costs.
✅ Moving to another district or neighborhood May take longer and be more expensive depending on traffic conditions.
💪 3. Do it yourself or hire a moving company?
✅ Moving yourself with vans & helpers is cheaper, but more time-consuming.
✅ Professional moving companies save time and energy, but are more expensive.
🛠 4. Additional services
✅ Apply for a no-parking zone (~ 50–150 €) for trouble-free loading and unloading.
✅ Furniture assembly & packing service increase the overall costs.
✅ Storage of furniture may incur additional charges.
💡 Tip: An accurate cost calculation helps you keep an eye on your budget!
2. How much does a moving company cost in Berlin?
🚛 Small apartment (1-2 rooms, approx. 40 m²)
💰 Cost: ~ 300–800 € (depending on floor, transport time & helpers).
✅ Ideal for singles or students with little furniture.
🏡 Medium-sized apartment (2-3 rooms, approx. 60-80 m²)
💰 Cost: ~ 800–1,500 €.
✅ Particularly important: Plan transport and furniture assembly early.
🏠 Large apartment or house (from 100 m²)
💰 Cost: ~ 1,500–3,000 €.
✅ Depending on the items being moved, additional special transport may be necessary.
💡 Tip: Get multiple quotes and compare to save money!
3. Moving yourself vs. using a moving company – which is cheaper?
🚚 Moving on your own (Rent a van + organize helpers)
✅ Rental van (~ 50–150 €/day)
✅ Fuel costs (~20–50 €)
✅ Moving boxes (~ 30–100 €)
✅ Help from friends or moving helpers (~ 10–20 €/hour)
💰 Total costs: €200–600 (depending on effort and distance).
🏢 Moving with a professional company
✅ Moving van + driver
✅ Carrying aid & furniture assembly
✅ Insurance for damages
💰 Total costs: €600–€3,000 (depending on scope and service).
💡 Tip: Moving yourself is worthwhile for smaller apartments, while larger moves with professionals are more relaxed.
4. Hidden costs when moving to Berlin
📝 1. Rental deposit & broker's commission
✅ Deposit usually 2-3 months rent (~ 1,000–3,000 €).
✅ If a broker’s commission is due, additional costs arise.
🏡 2. Renovation & repair costs
✅ If the old apartment needs to be renovated, costs for Painting, repairs or cleaning (~ 200–500 €).
📜 3. Change of address & contracts
✅ Change of address at the residents’ registration office (often free of charge, in some districts subject to a fee).
✅ New electricity & internet contracts can Cause connection fees (~ 30–100 €).
💡 Tip: Save early and avoid financial bottlenecks through good planning!
5. How can I make my move in Berlin more affordable?
💰 1. Compare offers & book early
✅ At least 3-4 weeks before Get quotes from moving companies.
✅ Reserve transporters and helpers in good time to Avoid last-minute surcharges.
📦 2. Get moving materials for free or at a low cost
✅ Free boxes via Supermarkets, classified ads or friends.
✅ Instead of bubble wrap: Use blankets, towels or clothing for protection.
🚛 3. Plan your move on a convenient day
✅ Weekends & beginning of the month are more expensive – better to move during the week.
✅ If possible, move in the off-season (autumn/winter is cheaper than spring/summer).
💡 Tip: Every expense saved reduces the financial pressure of moving!
6. Avoid common mistakes when planning moving costs
❌ Book too late & pay high prices → Solution: Plan at least 4 weeks in advance.
❌ Forget the no-parking zone and risk a ticket → Solution: If necessary, reserve parking space.
❌ No costs for rental deposit & change of address → Solution: Set your budget early.
❌ Transporting too much furniture & causing unnecessary costs → Solution: Sort out and declutter beforehand.
💡 Tip: With a precise cost plan you can keep track!
7. Checklist for stress-free relocation financing in Berlin
📌 Before the move:
✅ Compare offers from moving companies or transporters.
✅ Plan for the deposit and rent for the new apartment.
✅ Change your registration and conclude new contracts early.
📦 During the move:
✅ If necessary, organize a parking zone for the van.
✅ Pack most important items & documents separately.
✅ Clear out unnecessary furniture and things before moving.
🏡 After the move:
✅ Demand return of the deposit from the old apartment.
✅ If tax deductible: Collect receipts & invoices.
✅ Update your new address with banks, insurance companies & authorities.
💡 Tip: A structured financial plan saves you unnecessary stress and surprises!
Conclusion: How to correctly calculate your move in Berlin
✔ Plan early & estimate costs realistically
✔ Choosing a type of move: Move yourself or hire a moving company?
✔ Don't forget hidden costs (deposit, change of address, renovation)
✔ Compare offers & find affordable solutions
🚛 Are you planning a move to Berlin? Praktik Transport offers you transparent and affordable moving solutions! Get a non-binding offer now! 💰📦✨