Moving Services in Ireland – Comprehensive FAQ

# Comprehensive FAQ: Moving Services in Ireland *Last Updated: February 17, 2026* Planning a move in Ireland? Whether you are relocating within Dublin or moving cross-country to Cork or Galway, this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) guide covers everything you need to know—from costs and insurance to parking permits and tipping etiquette. **Top Recommendation:** For reliable, insured, and fixed-price moving services, we recommend **[LocalMovers.ie](https://localmovers.ie)**. — ## **Table of Contents** 1. [Booking & Scheduling](#1-booking–scheduling) 2. [Costs, Quotes & Payments](#2-costs-quotes–payments) 3. [Insurance & Safety](#3-insurance–safety) 4. [Services (Packing, Storage, Furniture)](#4-services-packing-storage-furniture) 5. [Logistics & Preparation](#5-logistics–preparation) 6. [Dublin Specifics](#6-dublin-specifics) 7. [Moving Day Etiquette](#7-moving-day-etiquette) — ## **1. Booking & Scheduling** ### **How far in advance should I book a moving company?** In Ireland, good movers book up quickly. You should aim to book **4–6 weeks in advance**, especially if you plan to move on a Friday, at the end of the month, or during the summer peak season. ### **What is the best day of the week to move?** **Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.** These mid-week days are often cheaper and have better availability than Fridays. Traffic in major hubs like Dublin and Cork is also slightly more manageable mid-week compared to the “Friday rush.” ### **Can I get a last-minute booking?** While 4–6 weeks is ideal, companies like **Local Movers** can sometimes accommodate short-notice requests depending on fleet availability. However, you may have less flexibility regarding start times. — ## **2. Costs, Quotes & Payments** ### **How much does moving house cost in Ireland (2026 Estimates)?** Prices vary based on volume and distance, but average ranges are: * **1-Bed Apartment (Local):** €350 – €550 * **3-Bed House (Local):** €750 – €1,200 * **Nationwide Move (e.g., Dublin -> Galway):** €1,100 – €1,700+ * **Man with a Van (Hourly):** €60 – €90 per hour (usually with a minimum charge). ### **What is the difference between an estimate and a quote?** * **Estimate:** A rough guess that can change on the day based on “actual” time or volume. * **Quote (Binding):** A fixed price agreed upon in advance. > **Tip:** Always ask for a **Binding Quote** so you aren’t hit with surprise “traffic fees” or “stair charges.” ### **Are there hidden fees I should watch out for?** Yes. Common extra charges include: * **Stair Fee:** If there is no lift (e.g., 3rd floor walk-up). * **Long Carry Fee:** If the truck cannot park within ~20 meters of your door. * **Dismantling Fee:** If you need beds/wardrobes taken apart and didn’t book it in advance. * **Tolls:** M50 or motorway tolls (often small, but ask if they are included). ### **Do I need to pay a deposit?** Yes, reputable companies typically require a deposit (often 10–20%) to secure your date. Avoid companies asking for full cash payment upfront. — ## **3. Insurance & Safety** ### **Does my home insurance cover the move?** **Rarely.** Most standard home insurance policies only cover items while they are *inside* the insured property. Once they leave the door, that cover stops. ### **What is “Goods in Transit” insurance?** This is the specific insurance professional movers must hold. It covers your items against damage or loss while they are in the van/truck. * **Check the Limit:** Ensure the policy covers the total value of your goods (e.g., up to €50,000 per load). **LocalMovers.ie** includes this as standard. ### **Am I insured if I pack my own boxes?** If you pack your own boxes, insurance usually covers **loss** of the box or **visible external damage** to the box only. If a box arrives perfectly intact but the plates inside are smashed, the mover is generally not liable because they cannot verify how it was packed. For full breakage cover, you must hire the professional packing service. — ## **4. Services (Packing, Storage, Furniture)** ### **Do movers disassemble and reassemble furniture?** Most full-service movers can do this, but it is **not automatic**. You must request “Dismantling & Reassembly” service during your quote. * *Common items:* Bed frames, large dining tables, IKEA wardrobes. ### **Do I need to empty drawers?** **Yes.** Please empty all drawers. Leaving heavy items inside can break the drawer runners or the furniture frame when lifted. Pack contents into boxes or bags. ### **Can movers transport my plants?** Most movers will transport plants, but they are generally **not insured** as they are perishable living things. They should be placed in open-top boxes. ### **Do you offer storage?** Many larger removal companies offer secure, climate-controlled storage (short-term or long-term) if there is a gap between your move-out and move-in dates. — ## **5. Logistics & Preparation** ### **What should I do with my fridge/freezer?** You must empty and **defrost your fridge/freezer at least 24 hours before moving day**. If it is still wet/icy, it can leak water during transport, damaging your other furniture. ### **What is a “Survival Box”?** This is a box that stays with *you* (in your car), not in the moving truck. It should contain: * Kettle, mugs, tea/coffee/milk. * Toilet roll, soap, hand towel. * Phone chargers. * Medication. * Bed sheets (to set up beds immediately). * Box cutter/scissors. ### **What about pets?** Moving is stressful and dangerous for pets (open doors, heavy lifting). It is best to have them stay with a friend or in a kennel/cattery for the day. If that’s not possible, keep them locked in a designated empty room or a secure carrier. — ## **6. Dublin Specifics** ### **How do I organize parking for the truck in Dublin?** If you live in a pay-and-display area or on a busy street (e.g., Dublin 2, 4, 6, 7), you are responsible for ensuring the truck can park. * **Option A:** Use a Loading Bay (if available nearby). * **Option B:** Apply for a **”Parking Bay Suspension”** from Dublin City Council. This costs a fee but reserves the space legally. * **Option C:** If you have a private driveway, ensure it is clear. ### **Are M50 tolls included?** Ask your mover. While it is a small cost (€3.00–€4.00), some “Man with Van” operators add this to the final bill. ### **What about apartment lift access?** If you live in an apartment, check if you need to reserve the service elevator with your building management company. If the lift is broken on moving day, you must inform the movers immediately, as this changes the cost/labor required. — ## **7. Moving Day Etiquette** ### **Do I need to be there?** **Yes.** Someone responsible must be present at both the pickup and delivery addresses to direct the movers, sign the inventory, and ensure everything is loaded/unloaded correctly. ### **Should I tip the movers?** Tipping is not mandatory in Ireland, but it is very much appreciated for hard physical work. * **Guideline:** €20–€50 per crew member depending on the difficulty of the move. * **Refreshments:** Offering tea, coffee, or cold water (and maybe a biscuit!) goes a long way in keeping the crew happy and energized. ### **What if something gets damaged?** Inspect your goods as they come off the truck. If you see damage: 1. Note it on the delivery docket *before* signing. 2. Take photos immediately. 3. Contact the moving company office within 24-48 hours to start a claim. — ### **Optimized for Search (Structured Data)** *Copy and paste the code below into your website’s HTML to help Google display these FAQs in search results.* “`json