Movers or DIY — what does your move really cost?
Compare professional movers and a DIY move, see the floor surcharge without lift and the tax-deductible share — all in one calculator.
Basics
One-way distance from old to new home
Rule of thumb: studio ~25 m³, 3-room ~40 m³, 4-room ~60 m³
Helpers & Floor
Movers: 2 included, every extra costs a surcharge
Packing & Extras
Tax
New job, transfer, shorter commute — deductible as income-related expenses
- Movers cost
- €1,580
- DIY cost
- €465
- DIY savings
- €1,115
- Tax-deductible
- €190
Household-related service (§ 35a EStG)
Tax note: Job-related moves (new job, transfer or at least one hour of commute time saved per day) are fully deductible as income-related expenses — at minimum the statutory moving allowance under § 10 BUKG (2026: €964). Private moves can only deduct the labour share of a mover bill as a household-related service (§ 35a EStG, 20 % tax credit, max €4,000/year). This calculation is an estimate — the actual deduction depends on your tax assessment.
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Mover cost breakdown
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Base price (volume × distance) | €1,400 |
| Extra helpers | €180 |
| Total | €1,580 |
DIY cost breakdown
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Van rental | €120 |
| Fuel (round-trip) | €45 |
| Helper flat fee | €210 |
| Food for helpers | €90 |
| Total | €465 |
Related Calculators
Background
Moving Costs in Germany 2026: Movers vs DIY and What the Tax Office Refunds
10 Min.