If you’re in the early stages of planning your move, one of the first big questions that comes to mind is, “How much will removalists cost?” It’s an important consideration as you start budgeting and mapping out your next steps.
Whether you’re relocating just a few streets away or across state lines, understanding removalist costs can help ease the process and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
With the right preparation and a clear idea of what to expect, you can keep your move within budget and focus on managing the logistics of your relocation.
This guide breaks down the costs and offers practical advice to help you plan so that you can tackle your move with confidence and less stress.
Removalist costs in Australia vary depending on the type of move, the distance, and the services you need.
For local moves, expect prices between $80 and $160 per hour, depending on truck size and the movers involved.
A small, one-bedroom move could cost $300 to $650, while larger homes might reach $1,100 to $1,700 depending on the amount of furniture and belongings.
|
City |
Hourly rate (2 movers) |
Example: 2-bed unit (5 hours) |
|
$125 - $160 |
$625 - $800 |
|
|
$110 - $150 |
$550 - $750 |
|
|
$100 - $150 |
$500 - $750 |
|
|
$95 - $140 |
$475 - $700 |
|
|
$95 - $145 |
$475 - $725 |
|
|
$110 - $160 |
$550 - $800 |
|
|
$95 - $140 |
$475 - $700 |
For interstate moves, costs range from $2,000 to $6,000+ due to longer distances, size of the home, and potential overnight stays for the crew.
|
Route |
Distance (km) |
Average cost |
|
Sydney to Melbourne |
~880 km |
$2,800 |
|
Sydney to Brisbane |
~920 km |
$2,800 |
|
Melbourne to Perth |
~3,400 km |
$3,900 |
|
Brisbane to Adelaide |
~2,100 km |
$3,300 |
International moves are the most expensive, starting at $3,500 and climbing to over $10,000, depending on the destination and shipment size.
These numbers give you a rough idea, but each move is unique since removalists tailor quotes based on several factors.
Imagine two families moving out of similar-sized homes: one in a suburban street with easy truck access, and the other in a city apartment with no lift. Their costs will definitely differ because of the variables involved. Here are the main factors removalists consider:
It’s no surprise that moving further costs more. A local move across Brisbane is far less expensive than relocating from Sydney to Melbourne. Longer distances mean higher fuel costs and more time on the road.
The size of your move matters. A small apartment might fit in a single truckload, while a four-bedroom house may require a larger truck or multiple trips. Decluttering before moving day not only lightens your load but also reduces costs.
Easy access to your property can make a big difference. Homes with narrow staircases, no parking for trucks, or steep driveways require extra time and effort. Removalists often charge additional fees for these challenges.
Moving during the busy season—like school holidays or summer—can cost more. Weekends are also peak times, often leading to higher rates. If you’re flexible, consider a mid-week or off-peak move to save money. Removalists often have lower rates when demand is lower.
Tip: For the lowest moving cost, aim for Tuesday to Thursday in the months of April to July. Also ask your moving company for cancellation slots.
Packing, unpacking, and storage services are convenient but come at an extra cost. As do dismantling or reassembling furniture and cleaning services. If you’re on a budget, handling these tasks yourself can be a good way to cut expenses.
Moving pianos, large furniture, or fragile antiques often incur additional charges as well.
Choosing the right removalist service depends on your budget and how much work you’re willing to do. Here’s a quick rundown of your options:
Moving costs can sometimes creep up on you. Here are a few hidden fees to watch out for:
Always ask for a detailed quote and make sure you understand it to avoid surprises on moving day.
Reducing moving costs doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few practical tips that might help:
1. Declutter before you move: Sell, donate, or recycle items you no longer need. Fewer belongings mean less truck space and time, saving you money.
2. Get multiple quotes: Request quotes from at least three removalists to compare services and prices. Make sure you understand what’s included in each quote. Using Upmove, you can easily request tailored quotes from a range of trusted removalists to find a service that fits your needs and budget. Then, conveniently compare these removalist quotes on the same Upmove platform.
3. Choose off-peak times: Moving mid-week or during quieter months can help you save as rates are often lower when demand is low.
Picking a removalist isn’t just about cost—it’s about trust. Look for companies with positive reviews highlighting their reliability and care for belongings. A transparent quote and clear communication are good signs of a professional service. Upmove features reviews and ratings from past customers so you can choose removalists who are known for their reliability and excellent customer service.
For added peace of mind, consider companies accredited by reputable industry organisations. While this isn’t a must-have, it’s a bonus that signals higher standards.
Moving day is here, and with it comes the promise of a fresh start in a new home. Understanding removalist costs, the factors influencing them, and the types of services available can help you budget effectively and make informed decisions.
From decluttering your belongings to choosing the right removalist, taking these steps ensures your move stays on track and within budget. Remember to look out for hidden costs and compare quotes to get the best value for your money.
Head to Upmove where you can find and book reliable removalists across Australia so you have piece-of-mind in getting to your new home safely.
Upmove helps Aussies find and book removalists and transport services across Australia. The easy-to-use platform allows customers to access reliable, cost-effective, and user-reviewed service providers in just a few clicks. Founded back in 2017, our focus has always been on making moving as simple and effortless as possible for both customers and the professionals they rely on.
It's free and easy to create a request on Upmove.
Describe, add photos and the dimensions of your shipment in your listing — anything that you think will make a difference, will make a difference.
Our platform will reach out to moving companies relevant to your delivery specification in your area.
Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
Compare prices and get to know movers before accepting their quote by reading previous customer feedback on our platform.
Pick your preferred moving company and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen moving company on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your moving company takes care of your booking.
Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
Please notify us of any violations. This information will be kept confidential and shared only with Upmove.
