ULEZ and Your London Move

Since the ULEZ expansion in August 2023, the Ultra Low Emission Zone covers all of Greater London — every borough, not just the inner zones. This affects removal vans, and it's worth knowing what it means for your quote before you book anyone.

What is the ULEZ charge?

The Ultra Low Emission Zone charges vehicles that don't meet certain emission standards to drive within the zone. For vans, the daily charge is £12.50. Older diesel vans are the main casualty — many smaller removal operators still run vehicles that trigger the charge.

Are ULEZ-compliant vans available?

Yes. Vans manufactured from around 2016 onwards typically meet Euro 6 diesel standards, which are ULEZ-compliant. All Ace Removals vans meet the standard. We don't pay the daily charge — and neither do you.

What about the Congestion Charge?

The Congestion Charge zone covers Central London roughly within the Inner Ring Road. The charge is £15 per day during charging hours: 7am–6pm Monday to Friday, 12pm–6pm Saturday and Sunday. It doesn't apply overnight, on Christmas Day, or before 7am.

Where possible, we schedule Central London pickups to start before 7am, which avoids the charge entirely. Where a move can't dodge the charging window, the £15 is payable by the customer — we tell you before the day and pass it on at cost, so it is never a surprise on the invoice.

What to ask before you book

Two questions worth asking any London removal company:

1. Are your vans ULEZ-compliant? The answer should be yes.
2. Will my route cross the Congestion Charge zone, and what will that cost me?

Some companies advertise a low headline rate and then add unexplained London surcharges on the invoice. This isn't illegal, but it's worth knowing upfront. A written quote that separates the removal price from any council or TfL charge, and states both before you book, is the clearest way to avoid it.

The Low Emission Zone (LEZ)

Separate from ULEZ, the Low Emission Zone applies to larger vehicles over 3.5 tonnes. Most removal vans are under this threshold, but large lorries used for commercial relocations or long-distance moves can be affected. If your move requires an HGV, ask specifically about LEZ compliance.