Quick Summary
Moving in Milan (trasloco) has unique challenges: narrow streets, limited parking, ZTL restricted zones in the centro storico, and older buildings without elevators. Italian moving companies range from professional operations with full insurance to informal crews advertising on Subito.it. Getting a proper preventivo (written quote) is essential — verbal agreements rarely end well.
What It Usually Costs
| Move Type | Typical Range (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bilocale (1-bed) local | 400 – 800 | Within Milan |
| Trilocale (2-bed) | 700 – 1,400 | Standard with elevator |
| No-elevator surcharge | +€100–300 | Per floor above ground |
| Packing service add-on | +30–50% | Full pack & unpack |
| Milan → other city | 1,500 – 4,000+ | Distance + volume based |
Key cost factors: floor level, elevator availability, ZTL zone access, volume of belongings, need for packing, distance, and day of week.
How to Choose a Good Mover
- Request a sopralluogo (on-site survey) — serious companies visit before quoting, especially for larger moves.
- Check Partita IVA registration — legitimate companies have a valid VAT number. Search on the Camera di Commercio registry.
- Confirm insurance coverage — ask for the polizza assicurativa details and what the maximum payout covers.
- Get everything in the preventivo — verbal extras always cost more on moving day.
- Read reviews on Google and PagineGialle — focus on reviews mentioning punctuality and care with items.
- Ask about piano (floor) charges clearly — this is the most common source of surprise bills.
- Beware of unusually low quotes — below-market prices often mean uninsured workers or hidden fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do movers charge in Milan?
A local move for a bilocale (1-bedroom) within Milan typically costs €400–800. A trilocale (2-bedroom) runs €700–1,400. Prices increase significantly if there's no elevator, you're above the 3rd floor, or the streets are restricted (ZTL zones requiring special permits).
Do Milan movers handle building permits and ZTL access?
Professional trasloco companies should handle Comune di Milano permits for truck parking and ZTL access. Always confirm this is included in the quote — obtaining permits yourself can take 5–10 business days and cost €50–150.
When is the best time to move in Milan?
Avoid September (lease turnover season) and June–July (student moves). Mid-week moves in October–April are cheapest. August is mixed — many companies take ferie (holidays), but those operating often have availability.
What should a quote from a Milan mover include?
A proper preventivo should list: number of movers and hours, truck size, floor charges (with/without elevator), packing materials, insurance coverage, any ZTL/permit fees, and IVA (VAT at 22%). If any of these are missing, ask before signing.