Moving to the Isle of Wight: how the ferry crossing works

01/10/2026

Mew The Movers removal lorry in the company blue and yellow livery

Moving to the Isle of Wight is not like moving anywhere else in Britain, because there is a stretch of water in the way. The good news is that for our customers the Solent is our problem, not yours. Mew The Movers has been taking Island moves across the water for over a century, and this guide explains exactly how it works.

Which ferry does the removal lorry use?

Removal vehicles cross on the vehicle ferries: Wightlink from Portsmouth to Fishbourne, or Red Funnel from Southampton to East Cowes. Both take our fleet, from 3.5 tonne vans up to our 18 tonne lorries. The Lymington to Yarmouth route suits smaller vans on west Wight moves. As members of the British Association of Removers with a century of crossings behind us, we know the sailings, the loading decks and the booking quirks inside out.

Is the ferry included in the quote?

Yes. When we quote for a move to or from the mainland, the crossing is arranged by us and included in your quotation. You do not book anything, and you do not pay the ferry company separately. You simply travel on whichever sailing suits you, and your belongings travel with our crew.

How far in advance should I book?

For moves involving a crossing we recommend booking as soon as your completion date firms up, ideally two to three weeks ahead. Fridays, month ends and the summer holidays are the busiest times on both the ferries and our diary. Short notice moves are often possible, so always ask.

What happens if the weather affects the sailings?

It is rare for the vehicle ferries to stop running for long. Because we cross the Solent constantly, we build sensible margins into moving day and keep you informed if a sailing is disrupted. In over a hundred years, the sea has not kept us from a move for long.

Does a mainland move cost more than an Island move?

A crossing adds ferry costs and time, so a mainland move costs more than the same move within the Island. Where you can save is on timing: if your dates are flexible, ask us about the most economical days to move, as mid week and mid month moves are often better value.

Can you move me anywhere in the UK?

Yes. We run removals between the Isle of Wight and the whole of the UK. One crew, one vehicle, door to door, with packing and storage available at either end.

Moving to or from the Island? Call 01983 566664 or request a free quotation.