Moving house in Dublin has always been a bit of a “grand” adventure, but as we settle into 2026, the logistics have changed slightly. Whether you’re shifting a few bits from a flat in Rathmines to a new spot in Swords, or moving a full three-bed house out to Tallaght, the first question is always: “What’s this going to set me back?”
At VanQuotes.ie, we believe in keeping things transparent. Here is the breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a man with a van service in Dublin this year.
Typical Hourly Rates in Dublin (2026)
Most reliable operators in the city now work on an hourly basis with a two-hour minimum booking. This ensures the driver can cover their fuel and time across the often-unpredictable Dublin traffic.
| Service Type | Average Hourly Rate | Best For… |
| 1 Man + Small Van | €70 – €85 | Single items, student moves, or IKEA runs. |
| 2 Men + Large Van | €110 – €145 | 1-2 bedroom apartments or small house moves. |
| 3 Men + XL Van | €160+ | Large family homes or office relocations. |
The “Northside to Southside” Factor
In 2026, many local drivers have introduced a small “crossing fee” (usually around €5 to €10) for jobs that require navigating between the Northside and Southside during peak hours. If your route involves the M50 tolls or the East Link, remember that these are usually passed on to the customer, so keep a few euro aside or check if they are included in your quote.
What Factors Influence the Price?
It’s not just about the distance. When you’re booking a service through VanQuotes.ie, keep these variables in mind to get the most accurate price:
1. Access and Stairs
If you’re living on the fourth floor of an apartment block in Grand Canal Dock and the lift is out of action, expect a surcharge. Most drivers charge an extra €5–€15 per floor for the extra “elbow grease” involved.
2. Number of Helpers
While you might be tempted to save money by doing the heavy lifting yourself, hiring a second man is often faster and safer. In 2026, a two-man team is the industry standard for efficiency—what takes one man three hours usually takes two men just one, often saving you money on the total hourly bill.
3. Special Items
Bulky or delicate items like American-style fridge-freezers, upright pianos, or heavy gym equipment often carry a flat-rate “heavy item” fee starting from €50.
A Note on Insurance (The Peace of Mind Factor)
We often get asked about “van insurance” for moves. To be clear, VanQuotes.ie provides the transport and removal service only. When you book with us, you are hiring a professional driver and their vehicle.
You do not need to purchase separate van hire insurance. Because our service includes the driver, your belongings are covered by the driver’s Goods-in-Transit (GIT) policy. This covers your items while they are being handled and transported by the professional, so you can sit back and let us handle the heavy lifting.
How to Save on Your Dublin Move
Declutter Early: Don’t pay to move “junk.” If it hasn’t been used since 2024, it’s time for the skip or the charity shop.
Mid-Week Moves: Saturdays are the busiest days in Dublin. If you can book your move for a Tuesday or Wednesday, you’ll often find better availability and occasionally “off-peak” rates.
Be Prepared: Have your boxes taped, labeled, and ready at the door. Every minute saved is money back in your pocket.
Get Your Quote Today
Stop guessing and start planning. Whether you’re moving across Dundrum or heading out to Malahide, VanQuotes.ie connects you with the best local pros at the best prices.
