How Much Does It Cost To Move A Safe

by Movivan | Created Jan 24 | Updated Feb 2026

Moving a safe is not the same as moving standard furniture. Whether it’s a small home safe, a large gun safe, or a heavy commercial security safe, the cost to move a safe depends on several key factors — including weight, access, equipment required, and distance.

In this guide, we break down exactly what affects the cost of moving a safe, typical price ranges in the UK, when specialist movers are required, and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to damage or injury.

Safe Moving Costs

Table of contents

Average Cost to Move a Safe in the UK

Typical Price Range for Domestic Safes

For a standard domestic safe weighing between 100kg and 250kg, with ground-floor access at both properties, the typical cost in the UK starts from £300–£500+VAT for a local move.

This assumes:

  • No stairs involved

  • Clear access routes

  • Standard equipment sufficient

Cost to Move a Heavy or Commercial Safe

Heavier safes (300kg–600kg+) increase costs significantly. These may require:

  • Additional manpower

  • Heavy-duty lifting equipment

  • Structural protection for flooring

  • Extended loading time

Prices for larger safes commonly fall between £400 and £800+VAT, depending on complexity.

Additional Charges in London You Might Have

If you live in Central London, you might have to pay a Congestion Charge.
Also, busy, difficult-to-park streets might require parking suspensions and dispensations.

What Affects the Cost of Moving a Safe?

Several practical factors determine the final price. The safe’s weight alone is only part of the equation.

Safe Weight and Dimensions

The heavier and bulkier the safe, the more labour and specialist equipment required. Dense safes exert significant pressure on flooring and require controlled movement to avoid structural damage.

Access: Stairs, Lifts, and Tight Spaces

Narrow hallways, steep staircases, and tight corners increase labour time and risk. Each additional obstacle increases cost due to slower, controlled movement.

Floor Level and Structural Challenges

Moving a safe up or down stairs is one of the biggest price drivers. Safes moved from upper floors require additional manpower and advanced handling techniques.

Distance and Travel Time

Transport distance affects fuel costs and crew time. Local moves are significantly cheaper than cross-country relocations.

Equipment Requirements

Professional safe relocation may require:

  • Stair climbers

  • Heavy-duty dollies

  • Hydraulic lifting systems

  • Protective floor boards

Specialist equipment increases operational cost but reduces risk.

Insurance and Risk Factors

Due to the potential for injury and property damage, specialist insurance coverage is required. Heavier safes present greater liability exposure.

Safe Removals

Labour Costs for Safe Removal

How Many Movers Are Required?

A small domestic safe may require two trained movers. Heavier safes often require three or four personnel for controlled handling.

Time-Based vs Fixed Pricing

Safe removal is typically priced either:

  • As a minimum labour block (e.g., 3–4 hours), or

  • As a project-based fixed fee

The complexity of access often determines which model is used.

Why Heavy Safes Increase Labour Costs

Safes concentrate weight in a small footprint. This increases the physical strain and requires slower, more precise handling — increasing time on site.

Mileage and Transport Costs

Distance affects the final price, particularly once crew time and vehicle requirements are factored in. While labour is often the main cost driver, mileage becomes more significant as the distance increases.

Local Moves vs Long-Distance Relocations

For short local moves, mileage charges are typically modest, as most of the cost relates to handling and labour.

Long-distance relocations increase costs due to:

  • Higher fuel usage

  • Extended crew travel time

  • Increased vehicle operating expenses

The further the destination, the greater the logistical overhead.

Fuel and Vehicle Considerations

Heavy safes require suitable load-bearing vehicles. Larger or reinforced vans may be necessary depending on weight and dimensions, which increases transport costs. Heavier loads also raise fuel consumption and mechanical strain.

How to move heavy furniture? ( Related Article )

Cost of Moving a Safe Into Storage

If a safe is being relocated into a London storage facility, the cost remains primarily driven by labour and transport complexity.

Typical charges include:

  • Removal and handling

  • Transport to the facility

  • Controlled placement on arrival

Storage duration itself is separate from relocation pricing. If you are planning to leave your safe in a storage facility for a long time, a good way to save money is to choose our long-term storage option, as we offer significant discounts for stays of 6 months or more.

Safe Disposal Costs

Safe disposal involves both removal and regulated recycling. Our safe disposal and house clearance services are certified, and we are an official waste carrier in London. Our registration number is CBDU501965.

Recycling and Disposal Fees

Disposal centres usually charge between £60 and £120+, depending on weight and material composition. Heavier reinforced safes may incur higher fees.

Why Disposal Increases Cost

Total disposal cost includes:

  • Labour to remove the safe

  • Transport to the recycling centre

  • Facility disposal charges

Some centres classify heavy safes as specialist waste, which can raise fees.

Safe movers

DIY vs Professional Safe Moving: Is It Worth the Risk?

Attempting to move a safe without proper equipment can quickly become unsafe and expensive.

Equipment Most Homeowners Don’t Have

Professional relocation often requires heavy-duty stair climbers, industrial dollies, and hydraulic lifting systems — equipment rarely available for domestic use.

Injury and Property Damage Risk

Safes concentrate extreme weight in a small area. Improper handling can result in back injuries, crushed fingers, damaged floors, or cracked stairs.

When DIY Might Be Realistic

A small safe under 80kg with clear ground-floor access may be manageable. Heavier safes or any stair access significantly increase risk and complexity.

Example Safe Moving Cost Scenarios

200kg Safe – Ground Floor to Ground Floor (5 miles)

Estimated cost: £280–£350+VAT

400kg Safe – One Flight of Stairs

Estimated cost: £450–£650+VAT

300kg Safe – 80 Miles Transport

Estimated cost: £500–£750+VAT

These are illustrative examples. Final cost depends on access conditions, weight, and equipment requirements.

FAQs About Safe Moving Costs

How much does it cost to move a 300kg safe in the UK?

For a 300kg safe, costs typically range between £350 and £600+VAT, depending on access and distance. Stairs or narrow entry points increase labour time and pricing.

Why is moving a safe so expensive?

Safes are dense, heavy, and high-risk items. They require specialist equipment, controlled handling, and appropriate insurance coverage, all of which increase operational cost.

Can any removal company move a safe?

Not all companies handle safes due to liability and equipment requirements. Specialist lifting experience is often necessary for heavier units.

Does insurance cover safe relocation?

Professional operators typically carry liability insurance for safe transport. It’s important to confirm coverage before booking.