Do removal companies need a licence in the UK?
There is no single "removals licence". Here is what applies, and what you should check yourself.
- Professional, vetted moversRegistered, insured and checked
- Compare the quotesPrice, reviews and what is included
- Free, no obligationYou choose who to book
The short answer
In the UK, there is no single licence that a business must hold to offer household removals. That surprises many people, and it means that anyone can advertise a removal service. It does not mean there are no rules, and it is the reason to check a company yourself. Several different laws and registrations can apply depending on the vehicles it uses and what it does. This is general information, not legal advice.
What may apply to a removal company
- Company registration. A limited company is listed at Companies House, where you can see its name, address and directors. A sole trader does not appear there, but should still give a trading name and address.
- Vehicle rules. Larger goods vehicles used for hire or reward can need an operator's licence and must meet roadworthiness and driver hours rules. Check on GOV.UK how the rules apply to the vehicle in question.
- Waste carrier registration. A company that takes away waste or does house clearance must be registered as a waste carrier in England. You can check the public register on GOV.UK. See house clearance.
- Insurance. Not a licence, but the key protection for you. Ask for goods in transit and public liability certificates. See goods in transit insurance.
- Consumer law. Removal companies must deal with consumers fairly and describe services honestly. Trading Standards enforces this.
- Data protection. Removal companies that keep your data must follow data protection rules.
Voluntary standards and trade bodies
Some companies join a trade association, such as the British Association of Removers, which has a code of practice and, for some members, a payment protection scheme. Membership is voluntary. Other companies hold quality management certificates. These are useful signals but not guarantees. See what the British Association of Removers is.
A quick check you can do in ten minutes
- Search the company name on Companies House, and check the address and the status.
- Ask for the insurance certificates, and check the dates and the limits.
- Read recent reviews on more than one site.
- Check the van and the website match the name on the quote.
- For clearance, check the waste carrier registration.
- Ask for the quote in writing.
See how to choose a removal company, removal scams and red flags and how we check the companies you compare.
Frequently asked questions
Is a removal company legally required to be insured?
There is no single rule for every company, but you should not use a company that cannot show goods in transit and public liability insurance.
How do I check a removal company is real?
Check Companies House, ask for the insurance, read recent reviews on several sites and make sure the quote and the vehicle match the name.
Do clearance companies need a licence?
In England, a business that carries waste must be registered as a waste carrier. Check the register on GOV.UK.
