How to Start Your Own Man and Van Business: Steps, Budget, and Mistakes to Avoid

So, you’re thinking about starting your own man and van business ? Honestly, that’s a solid idea. It’s one of those trades that never really dies – people are always moving homes, offices, furniture, or even just a fridge they found on Facebook Marketplace. The demand is there. The trick is knowing how to set it up right from the start, so you don’t burn time (and cash) figuring it out the hard way.

Before we dive in, let me say this : being self-employed isn’t for everyone. It’s freedom, sure, but it’s also paperwork, responsibility, and a few sleepless nights. I’ve seen a few mates jump in too fast and regret it six months later. So, take the time to plan it properly – it pays off. By the way, if you’re thinking long-term about growing your small business visibility or getting better at marketing, check out https://promotion-social.com – there are some surprisingly useful insights for small entrepreneurs there.

Step 1: Start with a Clear Plan (Seriously, Write It Down)

Yeah, I know – business plans sound boring. But here’s the thing : having one forces you to think about what kind of clients you want, how much to charge, and what your realistic income looks like. Are you targeting students moving flats in London ? Or small offices doing local relocations ? Those are totally different jobs, with totally different margins.

A basic one-page plan is enough to start. Include :

• Your target area and services (local, national, storage, packaging, etc.)
• Your estimated startup costs and pricing structure
• How you’ll get clients (local SEO, Facebook, word of mouth, etc.)
• Your monthly expenses (fuel, insurance, maintenance, tools)

Step 2: Sort Out the Paperwork (Not Fun, But Essential)

Let’s be honest – this is the least exciting part. You’ll need to register as self-employed with HMRC, set up a business bank account, and get proper insurance. At minimum, you’ll want Goods in Transit and Public Liability cover. Don’t skip it. One accident can wipe out months of profit if you’re uninsured.

Depending on where you operate, you might also need a waste carrier license if you’re handling disposal jobs. It costs around £150 and lasts three years – not too bad for the peace of mind it brings.

Step 3: Get the Right Van (Your Main Tool, Don’t Cheap Out)

Choosing your van is basically choosing your business identity. You can go for a small Transit if you’re starting out, or a bigger Luton van if you want to handle office moves or multi-item jobs. Prices vary – expect anywhere from £6,000 for a decent used van to £25,000 for a new one.

And here’s a little secret : branding your van with a logo and phone number actually works. People will see it parked somewhere and call. I’ve seen guys get more leads from their van graphics than from Google Ads.

Step 4: Set Your Prices Wisely (Don’t Undervalue Yourself)

This one trips up a lot of beginners. They start cheap to “get clients” – and then they can’t raise prices later without losing them. Instead, research your local market. In most UK cities, rates hover around £40–£60 per hour for a man and van service, depending on distance and job type.

Pro tip : charge extra for stairs, heavy items, and long-distance moves. It’s fair, and everyone in the trade does it. Just be clear about it upfront to avoid awkward chats later.

Step 5: Get Clients (Your First Jobs Matter)

At the start, focus on visibility – you can’t be hired if no one knows you exist. Set up a simple Google Business Profile with photos, your service area, and real client reviews. Then, make a quick website (even a one-page site is fine). Post on local Facebook groups, Gumtree, and Nextdoor – these platforms still bring in leads.

And please, ask for reviews. Every happy customer is a walking ad. A single 5-star review can bring you two more clients, easily.

Step 6: Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Going too cheap at first: It sounds tempting but kills your profit and reputation.
• Forgetting insurance: You’ll regret it the day something breaks in your van.
• Neglecting admin: Keep track of every invoice, receipt, and fuel expense – it saves a ton at tax time.
• Working without rest: Burnout hits hard in this trade. Schedule breaks or lighter days ; your back will thank you.

Step 7: Think Growth – Even If It’s Just You for Now

Once you’ve got a steady stream of clients, start thinking about growth. Maybe you can hire another driver, rent a small storage space, or expand to nearby towns. Or perhaps you’ll niche down – like moving offices only, or helping students relocate each summer. The opportunities are endless if you stay smart about it.

Final Thoughts

Starting your own man and van business isn’t rocket science – but it does take grit, patience, and good habits. The early months are usually the hardest, but once the phone starts ringing, it’s one of the most satisfying jobs you can do. You help people every day, you’re your own boss, and every success feels 100% yours. And that’s something worth working for.