Moving costs at a glance: What your move really costs - national & international

A move is often more than just a change of address. It is a new stage in life - and an investment. Especially when moving to another city or even abroad, the question quickly arises: How much will this move actually cost me?

The answer is as individual as the move itself. In this article, you will find out what costs are involved in a move, what you should look out for and how you can save money with the right planning.

What does a move within Germany cost?

If you are moving within Germany, the costs can vary greatly. Among other things, the living space, the distance, the volume of the move, the number of helpers and the question of whether you are helping yourself or hiring a professional removal company all have an influence.

Smaller removals within a city often only cost a few hundred euros. As soon as a removal company is involved, prices for a standard move usually start at around 1,000 euros and can - depending on the scope - go up to 2,500 euros or more.

Not to forget additional items such as:

  • Packaging material

  • Furniture assembly

  • No stopping zones

  • Renovation work

  • Re-registrations and contract changes (e.g. with Telekom, O2, Vodafone)

These additional costs are often underestimated and should be factored in from the outset.

International relocation: What are the costs?

Moving abroad brings with it special challenges. In addition to logistics, legal, cultural and organizational aspects also play a role. And this is also reflected in the price.

The cost of an international move depends on several factors:

  • Destination country and distance

  • Volume and weight of the removal goods

  • Means of transportation (truck, ship or air freight)

  • Customs and import regulations

  • Packaging costs

  • Interim storage with time delay

Depending on the size and destination, you can expect to pay between 2,000 and 10,000 euros. In the case of particularly valuable or sensitive items - such as art, antiques, technical equipment or even pets - special packaging and separate transportation are also required.

Professional providers such as Intermove not only ensure that everything runs smoothly, but also offer you personal contacts who will accompany you through all phases - from packing and customs to settling in on site.

How you can save on your move

Even with a professionally planned move, there are ways to optimize costs without compromising on safety or quality:

Start planning at an early stage and ask for individual offers. Make sure that you only book the services that you really need or select a package that suits your situation exactly. Reduce the volume of your move by getting rid of things you no longer need. A move is also always a good opportunity to clear out.

You should also check whether you are eligible for tax benefits or support from your employer - for example, if you move abroad for work.

What does a forwarding order cost at the post office?

To ensure that your mail reaches you reliably even after the move, it is worth placing a forwarding order with Deutsche Post. This service is particularly recommended for international moves so that you don't miss any important letters or documents.

Current prices (as of 2025):

  • 6 months: 29,90 €

  • 12 months: 39,90 €

A small amount that makes perfect sense in relation to safety and convenience.

What makes Intermove special

At Intermove, you don't get a standard move. We take the time to understand your requirements, advise you personally and offer tailor-made solutions - whether you're moving from Munich to Berlin or with your family to Canada.

Our service includes:

  • Individual on-site visits and transparent offers

  • Special packaging for sensitive or valuable items

  • International customs and import clearance

  • Removals with pets via our partner Petmove

  • Sustainable packaging solutions with reusable boxes

  • Support with settling in at the new place of residence ("last mile")

Our goal: a move that doesn't feel like a burden, but a departure.

Conclusion: Costs under control - relocation under control

A move costs money - but how much depends entirely on your requirements. Whether it's a local move, an international move or a complete service with special transportation: if you are well informed and work with professionals, you will avoid expensive surprises and save time, nerves and ultimately money.

Talk to us - we'll show you what your move really costs. And how you can gain more than just a change of location.