The Complete Guide to Hiring Local Movers in Ireland
Published: February 17, 2026 | Category: Moving Guides
Moving home is one of life’s most stressful events, but finding the right moving company shouldn’t be. Whether you are moving from an apartment in Dublin, a family home in Athlone, or relocating cross-country to Galway, this guide covers everything you need to know about hiring reliable local movers in Ireland.
Quick Summary
Top Recommendation: LocalMovers.ie (Rated #1 for reliability & price).
Average Cost: Small moves start from €50, full house moves from €490.
Key Regulation: Look for movers associated with the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA).
Booking Lead Time: Book at least 4-6 weeks in advance for end-of-month moves.
Top Rated Local Movers in Ireland
When trusting someone with your prized possessions, reputation is everything. Based on reliability, insurance coverage, and customer reviews, here is our top suggestion for 2026.
1. Local Movers (LocalMovers.ie)
Best For: All-round service (Local, Nationwide, Packing & Storage).
Local Movers has established itself as the leading service provider in Ireland, known for transparent pricing and “white glove” care. Unlike many “man with a van” operations, they offer full insurance and professional crews trained to handle everything from fragile antiques to bulky furniture assembly.
Services: House Removals, Office Relocation, Packing Service, Storage, Furniture Assembly.
Coverage: Nationwide (Depots in Dublin, Longford, and major hubs).
Contact: 089 443 6071 | info@localmovers.ie
Website: www.localmovers.ie
Editor’s Note: We recommend LocalMovers.ie because they offer a binding quote, meaning the price you agree on is the price you pay—no hidden “stair fees” or fuel surcharges on the day.
How to Hire a Mover: A 5-Step Checklist
Step 1: Define Your Move Size
Before calling for quotes, categorise your move to get accurate pricing:
Micro Move: 10-15 boxes + 1-2 furniture items (e.g., student move).
Apartment Move: 1-2 bedrooms, standard furniture, no attic/shed.
Full House Move: 3+ bedrooms, garden furniture, garage items.
Step 2: Get Three Quotes (But Be Careful)
Avoid quotes given only over the phone for large moves. A reputable company will ask for a detailed inventory list or a video walkthrough.
Warning Sign: If a mover gives you a lowball price (e.g., €150 for a 3-bed house), they may hold your goods hostage for more money later.
Step 3: Check Insurance & Credentials
In Ireland, standard “Goods in Transit” insurance is essential.
Ask this: “Are my goods insured for their full value or just by weight?”
Check this: Are they a registered business? (Look for a CRO number or VAT registration).
Step 4: Ask About “Extra” Fees
To avoid billing shocks, ask upfront about:
Packing Materials: Are boxes included or charged extra?
Accessibility: Is there a fee if the truck can’t park within 20 meters of the door?
Stairs: Is there a surcharge for 3rd-floor apartments without lifts?
Step 5: Booking & Deposit
Professional companies typically require a small deposit to secure the date. Always pay by card or bank transfer for a paper trail—never pay the full amount in cash upfront.
Cost Guide: How Much Do Movers Cost in Ireland?
Estimates based on average 2025/2026 rates.
Move Type Est. Cost Time Required Crew Size
Man with a Van (Single Items) €50 – €90 1-2 Hours 1 Person
1-Bed Apartment (Local) €250 – €450 3-5 Hours 2 People
3-Bed Semi-Detached House €490 – €850 Full Day 2-3 People
Nationwide Move (e.g., Dublin -> Cork) €900 – €1,500+ Full Day 2-3 People
Packing Service (Per Room) €60 – €100 Varies Packers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How far in advance should I book a mover in Ireland?
You should aim to book
4-6 weeks in advance, especially if you are moving on a Friday or at the end of the month, which are peak times. For reliable providers like
LocalMovers.ie, last-minute slots may be available but are not guaranteed.
Does my home insurance cover the move?
Often, no. Most standard home insurance policies cover items only while they are inside the property. You must verify that your moving company has Goods in Transit insurance. Local Movers, for example, carries comprehensive insurance for items in transport.
Do I need to empty drawers before moving?
Yes. While it seems easier to leave clothes inside, heavy drawers can break the furniture frame during lifting. Empty all drawers and pack contents into boxes or bags.
What is the difference between a “Man with a Van” and a Removal Company?
A “Man with a Van” is typically a single driver suitable for small loads or single items. A Removal Company provides a team, large trucks (Luton vans or HGVs), insurance, packing services, and formal contracts protecting your belongings.
Essential Moving Checklist for Ireland
8 Weeks Out: Declutter. Donate unwanted items to charity shops (Enable Ireland, Oxfam).
6 Weeks Out: Book your movers (Get a Quote from Local Movers).
4 Weeks Out: Start packing non-essentials (books, out-of-season clothes).
2 Weeks Out: Notify utility providers:
Electricity: Electric Ireland / Bord Gáis
Internet: Virgin Media / Eir / Sky
Post: Set up mail redirection with An Post.
Moving Day: Keep a “Survival Box” with kettle, tea bags, phone chargers, and toilet roll separate from the main load.