Local Central Coast removalists – book now

Punctual, professional movers who treat your belongings with respect and deliver a smooth moving experience.

9.7 · 1,697 reviews

Get Prices

$400

Yamaha glossy large upright piano

Blacktown, NSW

Mount Colah, NSW

10

Priscilla

Reviewed 23 February, 2025

Exceptionally understanding and transparent. Our beloved piano was moved with such care right across the city.

Moving house can feel like a big job, but with the right plan, it doesn’t have to be stressful. This complete moving checklist and budget guide is packed with everything you need to know about moving on the beautiful Central Coast. From a detailed moving budget example to a breakdown of removalist rates for both local and interstate moves, we’ve got you covered. You’ll find practical packing tips with a room-by-room guide, some of our favourite money-saving hacks, storage options on the Central Coast, and advice on how to handle special circumstances.

Whether you’re moving around the corner or across the state, this guide will help make your move easier and more affordable.

Let’s get started.

• How much do Central Coast removalists charge?
• Moving costs by home size
• Interstate moving costs to or from the Central Coast
• What’s included in removalists quotes?
• Congestion and parking on the Central Coast - why it matters on move day
• Other moving costs to expect
• Money saving hacks for local movers
• Example moving budget (buyers and renters)
• Movers on the Central Coast - what you need to keep in mind
• Central Coast moving house checklist
• Packing up - room by room guide
• Storage options - cost breakdown
• Preparing for special circumstances
• Finding the best removalists on the Central Coast

How much do Central Coast removalists charge?

On the Central Coast, removalists usually charge between $139 and $163 per hour, with most companies having a minimum booking of two hours. The exact rate can depend on things like how big your move is, how many movers you need, and even the time of year.

Don’t forget to factor in any extra costs, like fuel charges or additional services. And, if you’re moving during busy times, you might see higher rates or limited availability, so it’s always worth planning ahead to avoid paying more. We’ll dive into all of this in more detail a bit more later on.

Moving costs by home size

The size of your home plays a big role in how much your move will cost. Bigger homes take more time to pack, load, and transport, so you’ll end up paying more. Smaller spaces, like studios or one-bedroom places, will be cheaper to move. If you’ve got a larger home, like a three or four-bedroom house, expect the costs to go up.

To give you a better idea about removalist budgeting, we’ve pulled together a breakdown of the average cost of removalists based on home size.

*Upmove 2025 data.

Just keep in mind, extra services—like packing, taking apart furniture, or handling fragile items—can add to the total cost. We’ll go into more detail on that soon, but if you’re in a rush, you can skip ahead to find out what’s included in your quote and any extra charges to keep an eye on.

Interstate moving costs to or from the Central Coast

Moving costs - Central Coast to Brisbane

When it comes to an interstate move the price will totally depend on the distance as well as things like how big your home is and whether you need any extra services like packing or storage.

To give you some clarity, a Central Coast to Brisbane interstate move can range from around $1,000 to $2,300.

Now let’s look at how home size impacts the average cost for a Central Coast - Brisbane interstate move.

Just remember, things like the time of year or specific moving needs can affect the price, so it's always a good idea to get a few quotes from local Central Coast removalists to find the best deal for your move.

What’s included in a removalist quote?

It’ll typically cover the essentials like the truck, the movers’ time, and basic insurance for your belongings. Standard equipment like trolleys and blankets is usually provided too.

However, a few things could affect the final price. For instance, if your place is tricky to access — like if you’re in a spot with limited parking or if you live in an apartment with narrow stairways—you might see some extra charges.

Plus, if you’re moving during busy times, like weekends or school holidays, be prepared for potentially higher rates due to increased demand. It’s always a good idea to ask your removalist what’s included in the quote and if there are any extra costs to consider based on your specific move.

Congestion and parking on the Central Coast - why it matters on move day

Congestion and parking can be a real headache on the Central Coast, especially in places like Gosford, The Entrance, or Terrigal, where parking spots are limited and the streets can get pretty busy.

On move day, this can cause some delays and even extra costs if the removalists can’t park close to your home. If they have to park further away and carry your stuff a longer distance, it’ll take more time—and that usually means more money.

Areas like Woy Woy or Kincumber can also be tricky with narrow streets or limited access, so it’s worth checking with your Central Coast removalists about parking and any potential issues in your area. If you're in one of those spots, you might need to arrange a permit or figure out a way to make things easier on move day.

Other moving costs to consider

Moving involves more than just booking removalists — there are several hidden costs to watch for. If you’re buying or selling, stamp duty can hit around $40,000 on a $1 million property, while real estate agent fees typically range between $15,000 and $30,000.

Add in conveyancing ($1,500–$2,500), property valuation ($300–$700), and marketing, and the total quickly adds up. Renters aren’t off the hook either — end-of-lease cleaning can cost anywhere from $250 to $600, depending on the size of your place.

If you’re selling, home styling can be another significant but worthwhile investment. Professionally styled homes often sell faster and sometimes fetch higher prices. Styling costs can range from $1,500 to $5,000, though simple DIY touches like decluttering, adding plants, and freshening up with paint can still make a solid impact on your home’s presentation.

Money saving hacks for local movers

• Explore backloading: For flexible movers, share truck space with others to cut down transport costs. The cost is between $300 and $1,200 on the Central Coast, as you only pay for the space you use on a shared truck.
• Recruit friends and family: Save on labour costs by getting help with packing and loading.
• DIY for smaller items: Move smaller boxes or personal belongings in your own car.
• Find free packing materials: Reuse boxes, or grab free packing supplies from local stores.
• Downsize before moving: Sell or donate items you no longer need to reduce moving load.
• Book off-peak: Moving mid-week or during quieter times can save you money on removalist fees.
• Negotiate rates: Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or special offer from removalists.
• Use your own storage: Avoid rental costs by storing items temporarily in your garage or with friends.
• Look for bundled deals: Some companies offer discounts when you combine moving, packing, and storage services.
• Shop around for insurance: Compare prices for moving insurance to find the best deal.
• Pack in stages: Don’t leave everything to the last minute—start early to avoid rush fees.

Example moving budget Central Coast

Buying and selling moving costs on the Central Coast

Rental Moving Costs on the Central Coast

* Note: Costs may vary depending on property size, services required, and other factors.

Movers on the Central Coast - what you need to keep in mind

A little local knowledge can go a long way. From understanding property prices and rental markets to knowing the local weather patterns and day-to-day logistics, being prepared for the ins and outs of the area will help ensure your move and settling in period is a lot lighter. Here's a quick rundown of things to keep in mind.

Property pricing on the Central Coast

The Central Coast offers a mix of affordable homes and beachside properties, but prices can vary widely depending on the area. Suburbs like Gosford and Wyong are generally more affordable, while places closer to the coast, like Terrigal or Avoca Beach, tend to be pricier. Doing your research on property prices will help you set a realistic budget for buying or renting.

The rental market

If you’re renting, expect a competitive market, particularly in the popular coastal areas. Rent prices can be higher in areas like Erina and East Gosford, but there are still more affordable options inland. Keep an eye out for listings early and be ready to act fast—properties can go quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Local weather conditions

The weather on the Central Coast is pretty mild, but it can catch you off guard sometimes. Summers can get pretty hot and sticky, and you might see some heavy rainstorms rolling in. Winters are cooler, but still not too bad—just make sure you’re prepared for sudden changes, especially if you’re moving during a stormy spell. Wild weather can really throw a spanner in the works.

Public transport

Getting around the Central Coast is easy enough with buses and trains linking most major areas. The train line is super convenient if you’re commuting to Sydney, with stops in Gosford, Woy Woy, and Tuggerah. For public transport, you'll use the Opal card system, which works on trains, buses, and ferries across Sydney and the Central Coast.

Local services - waste collection and more

When it comes to local services, things like waste collection and council services can vary depending on where you’re living, so it’s always a good idea to double-check your local council’s website.

Most areas have general waste, recycling, and green waste bins, but pick-up days can differ. You’ll want to know your bin collection schedule to avoid any unwanted mess. Some suburbs also offer additional services, like bulk waste pick-up, which can come in handy when you're moving or clearing out old items.

Central Coast moving house checklist

Moving on the Central Coast is made a whole lot easier with our step-by-step checklist.

10+ Weeks before the move

• Research Central Coast suburbs: Think about where you want to live based on lifestyle, proximity to work, transport options, and amenities. Popular areas like Terrigal and Avoca Beach are stunning but can be more expensive. For more affordable options, check out areas like Wyong or Gosford, which still offer easy access to the beach and the city.
• Set your budget: Plan out your moving costs, including removalist fees, packing supplies, and possible extra charges like parking permits or storage.
• Book your Central Coast removalists: Get in early, especially if you’re moving during peak times (like school holidays or the summer months), as removalists can get booked out quickly.
• Organise storage: If you need a place to store things temporarily or are downsizing, start looking into storage options now.
• Declutter: Go through your belongings and get rid of things you no longer need. Less to move means less stress.
• Create a packing plan: Start with non-essential items and pack room by room.
• Notify your landlord/agent: If you’re renting, inform your landlord early about your move-out date.

6+ Weeks before the move

• Start packing non-essentials: Pack up items you won’t need in the short term – like off-season clothes and extra kitchenware.
• Order packing materials: Make sure to get boxes, tape, and other supplies early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Notify utilities: Contact your electricity, water, and gas providers to let them know your move-in and move-out dates. Don’t forget your internet and other services.
• Prepare delicate items: Think about how to move fragile or valuable items. Consider getting special packing or insurance if needed.
• Apply for parking permits: If you’re moving in a busy area (like the city centre), check with your local council about parking permits for the movers.

4+ Weeks before the move

• Reconfirm moving details: Double-check with your removalists about the time, date, and any special requests.
• Arrange end-of-lease cleaning: If you're renting, make sure you’ve booked cleaning services to ensure you get your bond back.
• Make arrangements for pets/kids: If possible, arrange for someone to look after your pets or kids on moving day so you can focus on the move.
• Check out your new place: Visit your new home if you haven’t already to ensure everything is in order.

2+ Weeks before the move

• Keep packing: Continue packing room by room, clearly labelling all your boxes.
• Pack an essentials box: Include items you'll need right away, like toiletries, chargers, important documents, and a few changes of clothes.

1+ Week before the move

• Clean your old place: Leave your old home in good condition by doing a final clean.
• Finish packing: Only pack essential items last, such as bedding and daily kitchen items.

Moving day

• Save a parking spot for movers: If you're moving in a busy area with limited parking, make sure there’s a spot for your movers.
• Let the movers handle the heavy lifting: It’s tempting to help, but let the pros do what they do best.
• Check for forgotten items: Do a final walk-through to ensure nothing’s left behind.
• Confirm utilities are set up: Make sure electricity, water, and internet are all set up at your new place.
• Start unpacking essentials: Begin with your essentials box and then tackle key areas like the kitchen and bathroom to settle in quickly.

Settling in

• Unpack key areas first: Focus on the areas you’ll use most, like the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
• Check deliveries: Ensure all items, especially furniture, have arrived safely.
• Ensure utilities are running smoothly: If something’s not working (like hot water or the internet), call your providers right away.

Packing materials

You’d be surprised how much smoother packing goes when you’ve got everything you need right at your fingertips. Here’s a breakdown of the essential supplies for moving a standard 3-bedroom house on the Central Coast.

Here’s what most households will need:

• Boxes: Small, medium, and large — around 40–50 total for a 3-bed home.
• Packing tape: 6+ rolls.
• Bubble wrap & paper: For glassware, dishes, and breakables.
• Blankets or pads: To protect furniture.
• Labels or markers: To stay organised.

Grab supplies from Bunnings, Officeworks, or reuse boxes from local stores.

Packing up - room by room guide

Packing up doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you take it one room at a time. Tackling each space step-by-step makes the process much smoother. Here’s your ultimate room-by-room guide for packing up your home on the Central Coast.

Garden, Shed & Storage

• Tools: Box up small tools and wrap larger ones in blankets to keep them safe.
• Outdoor furniture: Take apart larger pieces and pack cushions in boxes.
• Garden gear: Be gentle with fragile plants and pots – pack them carefully.
• Seasonal items: Sort clothes, linens, and towels into labelled boxes for easy access.

Guest bedrooms

• Bedding: Fold and pack bedding into large boxes or bins.
• Furniture: Disassemble where possible and keep screws in labelled bags for easy reassembly.

Office

• Documents: Sort your paperwork and keep important files in a sturdy box.
• Electronics: Wrap gadgets in bubble wrap and pack securely in strong boxes.
• Furniture: Break down bulky furniture and use drawers to store smaller items.

Living & dining rooms

• Electronics: If you’ve got the original boxes, use them. Otherwise, bubble wrap and pack carefully.
• Furniture: Disassemble furniture and wrap in moving blankets for protection.
• Books & decor: Pack books in smaller boxes, and use padding to protect delicate decor.
• Cushions & throws: Roll them up and pack in large boxes to save space.

Main bedrooms

• Clothes: Use wardrobe boxes or large bags to keep hanging clothes neat.
• Bedding: Pack bedding into big boxes or bins for easy transport.
• Furniture: Disassemble bulky pieces, keeping screws and parts in separate bags.
• Personal items: Sort smaller items into boxes to stay organised.

Bathrooms

• Declutter: Toss out expired products and anything you don’t need.
• Toiletries: Pack toiletries in ziplock bags to prevent leaks.
• Towels & linens: Roll towels and linens up, packing them in medium-sized boxes.

Kitchen

• Declutter: Go through your pantry and toss out expired food or items you won’t use.
• Dishes & glassware: Wrap in bubble wrap and pack in smaller boxes to protect fragile items.
• Appliances: Wrap larger appliances in blankets or bubble wrap and pack securely.
• Food: Pack essentials like spices or unopened items in small boxes, and try to use up pantry goods before the move.

Central Coast storage options - cost breakdown

Storage can be a lifesaver when you’re moving - either for storing items that won’t fit into your new space or for the period between the old and new home.

Prices for self-storage units typically start around $150 per month for a small unit, with larger options going up to $350 or more depending on size and location.

Most facilities offer flexible terms, and some even provide climate-controlled units for sensitive items. Whether you need short-term storage during a move or long-term space for excess belongings, there are local solutions to suit your needs.

Preparing for special circumstances

Moving with kids, pets, elderly family members, or someone with a disability comes with its own set of challenges, but a bit of planning goes a long way. For kids, involve them in simple tasks like packing toys, and prioritise setting up their room first to help them settle. Pets do best when their routine stays consistent — consider a pet sitter or transport service, and pack their familiar items to reduce stress.

If you’re moving with elderly family members, start early, accommodate mobility needs, and let professional movers handle the heavy lifting. For those moving with a disability, ensure the new home is accessible and that any mobility aids are ready to go. Hiring movers who have experience with accessible moves can also make the process smoother for everyone.

Finding the best removalists on the Central Coast

Moving to the Central Coast can be a mix of excitement and stress, but Upmove is here to make it easier. We connect you with local removalists in the Central Coast who can handle all aspects of your move, from packing to heavy lifting. With clear, upfront quotes and experts who know the area, you’ll have everything organised and stress-free in no time.

Let Upmove take the weight off your shoulders so you can focus on settling into your new home.

Local Central Coast removalists – book now

Punctual, professional movers who treat your belongings with respect and deliver a smooth moving experience.

9.7 · 1,697 reviews

Get Prices

$400

Yamaha glossy large upright piano

Blacktown, NSW

Mount Colah, NSW

10

Priscilla

Reviewed 23 February, 2025

Exceptionally understanding and transparent. Our beloved piano was moved with such care right across the city.