Moving with the Jobcenter covering the costs

Three cost estimates — why they are compulsory

The Jobcenter Leipzig puts it unambiguously: if a move, as an exception, cannot be done through self-help (Selbsthilfe), the costs of a removal company can be covered — “at least three cost estimates from removal companies are required for this”. For comparable service the cheapest quote is taken.

For you this means: you need three firms that give you a quote, free of charge and in writing. Many larger companies want a site visit for this and take two weeks — which becomes difficult if the office has set a deadline. We do it from photos by WhatsApp and usually send the quote the same day.

The process in the right order

The most common expensive mix-up: moving first, asking afterwards. That does not work. The Zusicherung (assurance that the new rent will be covered) has to be obtained before the new Mietvertrag (tenancy agreement), otherwise you are left with the costs — even if the move was objectively necessary.

• Flat found, but nothing signed yet
• Apply to the Jobcenter for the Zusicherung covering the new rent
• After the confirmation (Zusage): collect three cost estimates (one of them can be ours)
• Submit the quotes to the Jobcenter and wait for approval (Bewilligung)
• Only then sign the tenancy agreement and fix the moving date

Three kinds of costs can be covered: Wohnungsbeschaffungskosten (costs of finding a flat), the actual moving costs and the Mietkaution (rent deposit). Whether the move is recognised as necessary is decided by the office — recognised reasons are, for example, separation, health reasons or cramped living conditions. Not recognised are poor furniture or an unpopular neighbourhood.

Self-help first — what that means in practice

The office assumes that a move is organised “largely through self-help or by making use of private assistance”. In plain terms: first you are asked whether neighbours, friends or relatives can help. Then only a rental vehicle and boxes at the usual local prices are reimbursed.

A removal firm is approved if self-help really is not possible — for example in case of illness, physical limitations, being alone with small children, or simply when there is nobody who can carry. Write this reason into the application (Antrag), and be specific. “I can’t manage this alone” is usually not enough; “after spinal surgery I am not allowed to lift anything over five kilos” is more like it.

What the move costs with us

So that you know what figure will appear in the quote: a package with two movers and a van for three hours costs 289 €, for four hours 359 €. A complete one-room flat costs from 450 €, two rooms from 470 €. If you only need helpers, you pay 25 €/hr per person.

Within 50 km of Leipzig we charge no travel; for longer distances travel is part of the total price. Everything else is listed as a separate line item in the cost estimate — the office wants to see what is being paid for, and a flat rate without a breakdown often leads to queries.