Relocating in Melbourne can be both exciting and a little overwhelming, whether you're a seasoned local or just arriving. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse communities, and constant buzz, but its mix of unpredictable weather, busy trams, and unique neighbourhoods requires some careful planning. From the trendy inner-city precincts to the quiet charm of its outer suburbs, each area offers something different—and presents its own challenges when it comes to moving.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the entire moving process in Melbourne, offering practical tips on budgeting, packing, and finding the right local Melbourne removalists. With the right preparation, you’ll be able to settle into your new home with ease and start enjoying everything this Aussie city has to offer.
Let’s get started.
Moving in Melbourne can be a challenge, whether you're shifting to a neighbouring suburb or making a big city change. With Melbourne's ever-changing weather—think four seasons in a day—and the hustle of peak-hour traffic, timing your move is a critical consideration. The city is diverse, from the lively streets of Fitzroy to quieter areas like Elwood, each presenting unique moving challenges. Add to that the competitive rental market, the cost of removalists, and the logistics of packing and storage, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with all the steps you need to ensure your Melbourne move is as seamless as possible.
Moving in Melbourne is much like moving anywhere else, but there are definitely a few local things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Start planning 8-10 weeks ahead—set a budget, book your Melbourne removalists early. (they get booked up fast, especially in peak season)
Think through the logistics. Melbourne's road and public transport systems can be tricky especially if you're moving in or out of the CBD or nearby suburbs like Carlton.
Strategic packing is critical. Room by room boxing and careful planning for apartments with narrow hallways or tight staircases will make a world of difference come moving day.
Admin tasks such as updating your address with utilities and local services after your move. Melbourne has multiple councils, so ensuring you’re registered with the right one for things like waste collection and council rates will make for a smoother transition.
Have a clear budget in mind - avoid surprise bills and expenses.
More tips on all these steps coming up later in the guide.
Moving in Melbourne is easier when you’ve got the essentials covered—transport, accommodation, and the weather. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Melbourne’s property market is competitive, especially in areas like Fitzroy, Richmond, and South Yarra. Prices can vary depending on how close you are to the CBD or public transport, so if you’re on a budget, consider suburbs like Footscray, Coburg, or Brunswick for more affordable options.
Melbourne’s public transport system is extensive, with trains, trams, and buses covering most of the city. Grab a Myki card for easy access to all transport modes, especially the famous trams.
The weather can be unpredictable—expect everything from sunshine to storms in a single day. Timing your move during autumn or spring can help avoid the extremes of summer or winter. Check the Bureau of Meteorology's website to find Melbourne's forecast for moving day.
The cost of living in Melbourne is high compared to other cities, though not as steep as Sydney. Housing, dining, and entertainment can add up quickly, so it’s important to have a clear budget and know your living expenses before you settle in.
Moving to Melbourne can be a smooth process if you stay organised and plan ahead. Here’s a checklist to help guide you through your move in the city.
The cost of hiring removalists in Melbourne varies based on your home's size and location. For smaller apartments (like a one-bedroom), prices can start around $370, while moving a larger home (such as a 4-bedroom) could cost upwards of $1,960. The cost also depends on whether you're moving within the city or to outer suburbs.
If you’re buying a property, be prepared for additional costs like property inspections, conveyancing, and legal fees. Sellers will also have to factor in marketing costs and any agent fees.
For renters, you’ll need to budget for the bond and any upfront rental payments, plus don’t forget the smaller costs that add up—like utility connections, packing supplies, and any parking permits for moving day. It might seem overwhelming, but with a little planning, it’s manageable. For a complete breakdown of moving costs in Melbourne, check out our detailed Melbourne moving costs guide.
Deciding whether to hire professional movers or tackle the move yourself is a common dilemma. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on your budget, timeline, and how much work you’re prepared to take on. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.
Pros:
Cons:
Pros:
Cons:
If you’re leaning toward hiring movers, make sure to compare quotes from different local removalists. Platforms like Upmove can help you quickly find and book Melbourne removalists.
With your checklist and budget ready, it’s time to get organised. Whether you’re hiring removalists or moving yourself, starting early will save you stress. Here’s how:
Having the right supplies can make packing for a move run a lot smoother. Here’s a list of what you’ll need for a typical 3-bedroom move in the city.
What you need:
Where to find them: You can get boxes from furniture removalists in Melbourne, or pick some up at places like Bunnings, Officeworks, or even Spotlight. You can also find second-hand boxes on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree. For free options, check out our guide on where to find free moving boxes in Melbourne.
What you’ll need: 6-8 rolls of tape (for sealing everything securely)
Where to get it: Stores like Bunnings, Officeworks, and Kmart will have tape. Buying in bulk online can save you a bit if you want to keep costs down.
What you need:
Where to find it: Available at Bunnings, Officeworks, or local removalist suppliers. If you prefer online shopping, there are plenty of options too.
What you need: 5-8 moving blankets (to keep your furniture and appliances safe)
Where to find them: You can rent moving blankets from your removalist or buy them at places like Bunnings or even online.
What you need: 2-3 plastic bins (for smaller items like toys, clothes, or knick-knacks)
Where to find them: Stores like The Reject Shop, IKEA, Bunnings, or Big W are great for affordable plastic bins, which can help keep your things organised while you move.
Packing up your home might feel like a big task, but breaking it down room by room makes it a lot more manageable. Starting with the areas you use the least means you’re packing away things you won’t need until after the move, helping reduce the stress as moving day approaches.
Here’s a simple, room-by-room guide to help you stay organised and get things packed up without the hassle.
Once your packing’s done, it’s time to clean your home before you hand over the keys. Whether you’re moving out of a rental or just want to leave the place sparkling, here’s a simple guide to help you wrap it up.
Start high and work your way down: Dust the ceilings, light fittings, and air vents first. Then move to the walls, windows, and floors, so any debris falls where you can clean it later.
Give the kitchen a deep clean: Wipe down all surfaces, including counters, sinks, and appliances. Don’t forget the stove, rangehood, and behind the fridge—these often get overlooked but are crucial for a thorough clean.
Tidy up the bathroom: Clean the tiles, grout, mirrors, and sinks. Focus on high-touch areas like the toilet and shower, removing any soap scum or mould.
Clean the floors: Vacuum or sweep all the floors, getting under furniture and in the corners. Don’t forget to give the skirting boards a quick wipe.
Check the carpets: If there are stains, a professional carpet cleaner can help restore them, making the place look fresher.
Dispose of any rubbish: Get rid of all trash, including anything left in the garage or storage areas. Visit the City of Melbourne's website for where to recycle or responsibly dispose of different materials.
Lastly, do a quick walk-through to check everything is in order. It’s also a good idea to take a few photos for your own peace of mind. A bit of effort here can make a huge difference when it comes to getting your bond back.
Whether your new place isn't quite ready or you simply have more belongings than your new home can accommodate, having a storage solution during the move can make everything smoother.
Storage prices in Melbourne can vary depending on location and the size of the unit. On average, a medium-sized storage unit might cost around $300 a month. If you need something larger, like space for a full household of furniture, expect the price to go up.
Mobile storage options are another option. With this service, a container is delivered to your door, you load it up, and then the company picks it up and stores it. It’s often cheaper and more flexible than traditional storage units.
If you’re storing long-term, some facilities offer discounts for bookings of several months. Keep in mind, units closer to the city centre tend to be more expensive.
Tip: Consider insurance for your items, especially if you're storing valuable or sentimental things. While most facilities include basic coverage, extra protection might be worth it for peace of mind.
Quick summary:
When moving day finally arrives, and you're almost through with the packing, the next big step is actually getting everything and everyone to your new place. This part of the process can be tricky—especially if you’ve got pets, kids, or elderly relatives in tow.
Here are a few things to consider to make your move as smooth as possible:
Pets can get stressed out with all the changes, especially if it’s a long journey. Make sure to pack their essentials—food, water, and something familiar, like their favourite blanket or toy, to help them feel secure. If it’s a longer trip, you might want to look into a pet transport service to keep them calm and safe.
For kids, moving can be a mix of excitement and nerves. To help them feel as comfortable as possible, let them pack up some of their things themself, and have open conversations about the move to help them manage their emotions.
If you’re helping an elderly relative move, make sure to plan ahead for their comfort and needs. Think about any mobility issues or medications they might need during the move. Keep their essentials, like medication, in a separate, easy-to-reach bag, and if possible, have someone accompany them to make sure everything goes smoothly.
If you’re moving with a disability, some extra prep can make the whole experience easier. Pack medications and important items in an accessible box that stays with you. Also, check that your new home is accessible—wider doorways, ramps, or step-free entrances can make a big difference. It’s also a good idea to know where local medical services and community resources are, so you can settle in without any worries.
Moving to, from, or within Melbourne is an exciting adventure, but there’s also a lot to plan for and think about. Whether you're shifting across town or heading further afield, the process can feel overwhelming. That's where Upmove steps in—connecting you with experienced, affordable, and trustworthy Melbourne removalists.
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.
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