What does a move cost on average?

The average moving costs in Germany range from €600 to €4,000 — depending on apartment size, distance, and whether you organize yourself or hire a moving company. For a 2-room apartment within the same city, a moving company typically costs €800–1,500, while a long-distance move of a 4-room apartment can quickly reach €3,000–6,000. On top of that, hidden costs like deposits, double rent, and renovation often double the total amount. Our calculator accounts for all these items and gives you a realistic overview.

Is a moving company worth it?

Whether a moving company is worth it depends on your situation. For small apartments (1–2 rooms) within the same city, you can often save 50–70% with a rental van and helpers. From 3 rooms onward, for long distances, or without friends to help, a moving company is almost always worth it — especially with fragile or heavy furniture. Also consider the risk: professionals are insured, while with DIY moves you're liable for damage to the stairwell or belongings. Get at least three quotes and compare exactly which services are included.

How much does moving cost per cubic meter?

Moving companies often calculate internally by volume in cubic meters. As a guideline, expect €25–50 per m³ for a local move and €50–80 per m³ for long-distance moves (over 100 km). A typical 60 m² apartment has about 20–30 m³ of moving volume. However, many factors influence the price: floor without elevator, narrow staircases, heavy transports (piano, safe), and seasonal demand (July/August and end of month are more expensive). Always ask whether packing materials, parking permits, and insurance are included in the quote.

What hidden costs are there when moving?

Most people significantly underestimate the true cost of moving. Commonly forgotten items include: deposit for the new apartment (often 3 months cold rent, i.e. €1,500–3,000), double rent during the transition (1–2 months), renovation of the old apartment (painting: €200–800, with floors: €500–1,500), mail forwarding (€28.90), internet transfer or new setup (€50–100), and new furnishings. Parking permits (€50–250 depending on the city), re-registration fees, and vehicle re-registration also add up. Our calculator captures all these items systematically.

How much does a parking permit for moving cost?

The cost of a parking permit for moving varies considerably by city and required length. In most cities, you pay €50–150 for the official permit plus setup fees for the signs (€30–100). In Munich and Hamburg, it can cost €200–300. Applications usually need to be submitted 2–4 weeks before the move. Without a parking permit, you risk the moving truck not finding a parking spot — which delays the move and causes additional carrying costs due to longer distances. In old-building neighborhoods with limited parking, it's almost always worthwhile.

Do I have to paint the old apartment?

The obligation for cosmetic repairs depends on your lease agreement. In 2015, the German Federal Court ruled that rigid renovation clauses (e.g., 'paint every 3 years') are invalid. However, flexible clauses requiring renovation 'as needed' are valid if you return the apartment in significantly worse condition than when you moved in. Without a valid clause, you don't have to renovate at all. In practice, most landlords at least expect you to paint in light, neutral colors if you painted the walls in bright colors. When in doubt, check your lease or consult the tenants' association.

How do I set up mail forwarding?

You can set up mail forwarding with Deutsche Post online at nachsendeauftrag.de or at any post office. The cost is €28.90 for 12 months (online) or €34.90 at a branch. The order applies to all mail addressed to your name and can be set up as early as 5 business days before the move. It's recommended to submit the application at least 1–2 weeks in advance for a smooth transition. Additionally, you should update your address directly with your bank, insurance companies, employer, tax office, and important online shops.

What does moving from Berlin to Munich cost?

A long-distance move from Berlin to Munich (approx. 585 km) costs between €2,000 and €7,000 with a moving company, depending on apartment size. For a 2-room apartment (approx. 50 m²), expect €2,000–3,500; for a 3-room apartment (approx. 75 m²), €3,500–5,000; and for a 4-room apartment (approx. 100 m²), €5,000–7,000. Additional costs include fuel (approx. €150–200 for a truck), possible overnight stays, and highway tolls. DIY moves save about 40–60% on transport, but you need to budget for a rental truck (from €150/day), helpers, and food.

How long does a move take?

The actual moving duration depends on apartment size, floor level, and number of helpers. A 1–2 room local move with 2–3 helpers typically takes 4–6 hours. A 3-room move takes 6–8 hours, and a larger apartment (4+ rooms) takes a full day. For long-distance moves, driving time is added. Professional movers are often faster because they have routine, proper equipment, and sufficient staff. Packing takes an additional 1–2 days. The entire moving phase — from the first boxes to the last unpacked shelf — usually stretches over 2–4 weeks.

Can I deduct moving costs from taxes?

Yes, under certain conditions you can deduct moving costs from your taxes. For work-related moves (e.g., job change, transfer, reducing commute by at least 1 hour), actual costs are deductible as income-related expenses — transport, double rent, broker fees, and travel costs. Additionally, there is a flat-rate moving allowance (2026: €886 for the person moving, €590 per additional person). For private moves, you can at least deduct 20% of moving company costs as household-related services, up to a maximum tax reduction of €4,000 per year.

Moving in Berlin: Costs & Tips | Moving Cost Calculator

What Does Moving in Berlin Cost?

Berlin is one of Germany's most popular cities for relocation -- and simultaneously one of the most challenging. High demand, limited parking, and many old buildings (Altbau) with narrow staircases make every move a logistical undertaking. Whether you are moving to Berlin, within Berlin, or out of the capital, understanding the local particularities is essential.

Average costs for a move within Berlin for a 2-room apartment are EUR 800--1,500 with a moving company. For larger apartments (3--4 rooms), EUR 1,500--3,000 is realistic. Berlin sits in the middle of the price range for German major cities -- cheaper than Munich or Hamburg, but more expensive than Leipzig or Dresden.

Berlin Specifics: Altbau, Rear Buildings, and Side Wings

Many Berlin apartments are in Gruenderzeit-era old buildings. That means high ceilings (great for tall furniture), but also narrow, winding staircases -- often without an elevator. A move on the 4th floor of a Kreuzberg Altbau without elevator takes considerably longer than in a new-build with a freight elevator -- and costs accordingly.

Particularly demanding are moves in rear buildings (Hinterhaus) and side wings (Seitenflügel). The path from the truck to the apartment can lead through multiple inner courtyards, doubling carrying time. Always ask the moving company whether surcharges apply for such conditions.

Applying for a Parking Permit in Berlin

A parking permit (Halteverbotszone) is almost always necessary in Berlin -- especially in districts like Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, Neukoelln, Prenzlauer Berg, and Mitte, where free parking spaces are scarce. The application is submitted to the district Ordnungsamt (public order office).

Costs: EUR 35--68 administrative fee plus approximately EUR 50--100 for sign setup and removal. Total: EUR 85--170. Processing time is 2--3 weeks, longer during peak season. Without a parking permit, you risk the moving truck having nowhere to park -- delaying the entire move and becoming expensive if the company charges by the hour.

Popular Districts and Their Moving Costs

Not every Berlin district costs the same to move in. Mitte and Charlottenburg: high parking pressure, often narrow streets -- parking permit strongly recommended. Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg: many old buildings without elevator; budget for floor surcharges. Prenzlauer Berg: similar to Friedrichshain, plus often small courtyards that complicate access. Neukoelln: more affordable, but also many old buildings. Marzahn-Hellersdorf and Spandau: more new builds with elevators, simpler logistics, cheaper moving prices.

Average Rental Costs in Berlin 2026

Rents in Berlin have risen sharply in recent years. In 2026, the average for new rentals is approximately EUR 12--15 per m2. In popular inner-city districts such as Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, and Friedrichshain, EUR 15--20/m2 is common. This directly affects your deposit: at 70 m2 and EUR 14/m2 cold rent, that is EUR 980 monthly rent -- and up to EUR 2,940 as a deposit.

Tips for Moving in Berlin

Secure parking: apply for the parking permit early -- at least 3 weeks in advance. During peak season (summer), allow even more time. Move mid-week: Saturdays are especially popular in Berlin. Tuesday to Thursday is significantly cheaper and less stressful. Check the elevator: clarify in advance whether the building's elevator is large enough for furniture -- some Berlin elevators barely fit two people. Inform neighbours: in Berlin apartment buildings, it is courteous to inform neighbours in advance about the move -- this avoids complaints about blocked staircases. Get multiple quotes: the price range among Berlin moving companies is large. Compare at least three firms and check reviews on Google and Check24.

Conclusion

Moving in Berlin is entirely feasible but requires good planning. The combination of old building stock, scarce parking, and high demand drives costs. Those who plan early, apply for the parking permit in time, and move mid-week save noticeably. Use our calculator to realistically estimate the total cost of your Berlin move.