Adelaide is a city known for its relaxed vibe, great food and beautiful festivals, but when it comes to moving, there’s a lot more to think about than just securing a new place.
From removalist fees to less-considered costs such as property valuations, there are plenty of expenses that can catch you off guard. But don’t worry, we’ve got the details you need to keep your budget in check.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about moving costs in Adelaide, including practical tips on how to save, what expenses to expect for different home sizes, and how to avoid any unexpected costs - because they can quickly add up.
Let’s dive in.
When you're hiring moving companies in Adelaide, it’s helpful to know what you're getting into cost-wise, so there are no surprises on moving day. Most Adelaide removalists charge by the hour, with a standard minimum of 2 hours for local moves.
On average, you’re looking at anywhere between $95 and $180 per hour, depending on a few things like the size of the truck, how many movers you need, and whether you’re moving from the city or one of the outer suburbs.
Just like anywhere, timing can affect the price—weekends and the end of the month are typically busier times for movers, so you might notice rates being a bit higher then.
If you want to avoid paying more than you need to, it’s smart to shop around. Reach out to a few local removalists in Adelaide and get quotes tailored to your move. That way, you can compare and make sure you’re getting the best deal for your budget.
Adelaide removalist hourly rates typically range between $95 and $180.
Local moving companies will have varied costs depending on the size of your home and how much stuff you need moved. Here’s a quick breakdown to give you a clearer idea of what you might be up for:
| Size of home | Removalists cost |
| Studio or 1-bed unit | $500 - $750 |
| 2-bed unit | $550 - $1250 |
| 2-bed home | $780 - $1,300 |
| 3-bed home | $850 - $1,350 |
| 4-bed home | $1250 - $2,450 |
These prices generally cover truck hire and the movers’ time, but keep in mind that additional factors can influence the cost. For example, if you’re moving to or from a place with limited parking or a lot of stairs, that could bump the price up.
The more furniture and fragile items you have, the more you’ll likely be charged, too. It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes and discuss the specifics of your move so you can avoid any surprises.
We’ll talk more about all of the above later in the article, or you can jump forward and read a thorough breakdown on removalist inclusions and what could increase your costs.
If you’re planning an interstate move to or from Adelaide, it’s important to factor in the extra costs that come with transporting your belongings across state lines. The price for moving across the country can vary quite a bit depending on the size of your home and the level of service you choose.
To give you a clearer idea around interstate moving costs, we’ve detailed a move from Adelaide to Sydney below.
According to our most recent data (2025), you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $5,800 for removalist costs between Adelaide and Sydney.
Let’s break it down some more:
| Size of home | Average cost |
| Average 2-bed apartment | $2,800 |
| Average 2-bed house | $3,500 |
| Average 3-bed house | $4,000+ |
Keep in mind, these are just ballpark figures, so it’s always a good idea to get a few quotes from companies that service interstate Adelaide moves.
You can expect to pay between $1,200 and $4,800 for removalist costs between Adelaide and Sydney.
When you receive a quote, a few standard services are typically included. Here’s what you can expect:
That said, there are a few things that could push up the cost:
Tip: Always ask for a detailed breakdown of your quote upfront so you’re clear on what’s included and avoid any surprise costs on the day of your move.
Before moving day arrives, it’s worth taking some time to understand Adelaide's road layout and how it could affect your move.
The City of Churches road network can vary a lot depending on where you're moving to and from. For example, the city centre can be tricky with one-way streets, limited parking, and heavy traffic during peak hours. This might mean your Adelaide removalists have to deal with delays or extra time finding a parking spot, which could add to your costs.
On the other hand, if you're heading to a more suburban area like Tea Tree Gully or Brighton, the roads may be wider, and there’s usually less traffic, but depending on the distance, your move could take longer, which may increase the overall time and cost.
Plus, understanding things like access to your property, whether you’re on a busy main road or tucked away on a narrow street, can help you prepare for potential challenges. Knowing these details ahead of time allows you to plan more efficiently, avoid surprises, and keep things running smoothly on moving day.
To avoid delays on moving day, it's helpful to be aware of congestion hotspots.
To help you navigate this, we’ve included a map showing key congestion areas around the city.
If you’re moving through these areas, try to schedule your move early in the morning or on a weekday to steer clear of the worst congestion. Being mindful of these busy spots can save you time and help your move run more smoothly.
Don’t underestimate the power of planning your parking when moving house in Adelaide - it can play a big part in keeping things on track.
If you’re moving to or from these zones, check the parking restrictions ahead of time and, if needed, arrange for a permit or plan for extra time to find a spot.
Moving anywhere in Adelaide involves more than just removalists fees. There are a few other costs that can sneak up on you, and it’s good to know what to expect ahead of time. Here’s a breakdown of some additional expenses you can expect to come across:
Stamp duty is a tax on property purchases and can be a significant cost when buying a home. In Adelaide, it’s calculated based on the purchase price of the property. For example, if you’re buying a $1 million home, the stamp duty could be around $50,000 (but it depends on a few factors).
You can easily calculate your stamp duty costs using this Adelaide stamp duty calculator to get a more accurate figure for your situation.
If you need a property valuation, whether for mortgage purposes or just to confirm the value of a home, expect to pay around $500 for a standard valuation in Adelaide. If you shop around, you might find one for as little as $300, but some valuers charge up to $600, especially for more detailed reports.
In rural areas of South Australia, where valuations are trickier due to fewer sales data, the cost can go as high as $1,000. To get the best deal, it’s worth comparing quotes from local valuers.
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership, and it’s essential when buying or selling a property. In Adelaide, conveyancing fees typically range from $600 to $1,500 depending on the complexity of the transaction - but costs can reach up to $2,200.
You have the option to hire either a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer. Solicitors tend to charge a little more, but both can handle the legal paperwork, including contracts, title searches, and communication with your lender or the seller's agent.
While you technically could manage the process on your own, it’s not something we’d recommend. Conveyancing can be complex, and professionals ensure everything is done by the book, saving you from any potential legal issues down the line and making the entire process smoother and less stressful.
If you’re renting and need to leave your property spotless, end of lease cleaning is a common additional cost. Cleaning companies in Adelaide typically charge on an hourly basis, but you can expect an average price of around $280 for a standard 2-bedroom, 1-bath unit, or $400 for a 3-bedroom, 2-bath unit. Keep in mind that quotes can vary depending on the company and the condition of the property.
If you’re selling your property, don’t forget to account for real estate agent fees, which typically range from 2% to 2.75% in Adelaide’s metro area.
In rural areas of South Australia, you might see a slightly higher rate of 2.75% to 3%. For a $1 million property, this means you’re looking at fees anywhere between $20,000 and $27,500.
That’s the commission, but remember, marketing and advertising costs often get added on top, which can increase the total. Always ask the agent for a breakdown of all costs upfront so there are no surprises later on.
Home styling is all about making your property look its best by arranging furniture, decor, and sometimes even making small updates to appeal to potential buyers or renters. It’s an important part of the selling process because it helps showcase your home’s full potential.
In Adelaide, you can expect to pay under $2,500 for quality property styling. For example, styling a 2-bedroom home typically costs around $1,800.
Is it worth the cost? Research shows that homes that are professionally styled tend to sell faster and for higher prices. In fact, homes that have been styled can sell for up to 10% more than those that haven’t been.
Plus, a study by the Real Estate Institute of South Australia (REISA) found that styled properties often sell 30% faster. While the upfront cost may seem like an extra expense, the return on investment can be significant, especially if you’re looking to make a quick and profitable sale.
Backloading is when you share space on a moving truck that’s already making a similar journey, which can make it a more budget-friendly option for long-distance moves. The main benefit is the cost—since you're only paying for the space you use, backloading can be significantly cheaper than hiring a truck just for yourself.
Prices can range from $500 to $1,500 for interstate moves, depending on the distance and the size of your load.
However, there are some downsides:
Overall, backloading can be a great option if you’re looking to save money and aren’t in a rush, but it requires some patience and planning.
Want to save a little extra when moving in Adelaide? Here are some simple strategies to keep costs low:
Book ahead and choose off-peak days: The earlier you secure your Adelaide removalists, the more likely you are to get a better deal. Weekdays and mid-month tend to be less busy, which can help avoid premium weekend or end-of-month rates.
Look into backloading for long-distance moves: If you’re moving interstate or a long way, backloading could be your budget-friendly solution. Sharing truck space with others can shave up to 50% off the cost of a standard move.
Sort through your belongings: Moving a 2-bedroom home could cost anywhere between $585 to $1,250, so the less you move, the less you’ll pay. Take time to declutter and sell or donate items you no longer need.
Get multiple quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Furniture removalist prices vary, and comparing a few options could help you find the best value. A 3-bedroom move can cost anywhere from $850 to $1,350, so shop around.
Plan for parking and access issues: If you’re moving from or to a busy area like the CBD, check parking restrictions in advance. Limited access could lead to extra costs or delays, so ensure your removalists can park easily and get to your home without a hitch.
Choose a quieter time of day: Adelaide’s roads can get busy, especially during peak hours. Try to schedule your move early in the morning or during off-peak times to avoid additional charges for delays.
| Service | Cost |
| Removalists (local move) | $850 - $1,350 (for a 3-bedroom home) |
| Conveyancing fees | $600 - $2,200 |
| Stamp duty | Approx. $50,000 (for a $1M home) |
| Real estate agent fees | $20,000 - $27,500 (for a $1M home) |
| Marketing | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Property valuation | $300 - $600 (or up to $1,000 in rural areas) |
| Inspections (building & pest) | $400 - $800 |
| Home styling (optional) | $1,800 - $2,500 (for a 2-bedroom home) |
| Packing materials | $100 - $300 |
| Utility connections | $50 - $200 |
| Estimated total | $55,500 - $95,000+ |
| Service | Cost |
| Removalists (local move) | $360 - $750 (for a 1-bedroom unit) |
| End-of-lease cleaning | $200 - $750 (depending on property size) |
| Bond | $2,000 - $3,000+ (typically 4 weeks' rent) |
| First month’s rent | $2,000 - $3,000+ |
| Packing materials | $100 - $300 |
| Cleaning for new property | $150 - $400 |
| Utility connection fees | $50 - $200 |
| Pet bond (if applicable) | $200 - $500 |
| Renters’ insurance | $10 - $30 /month |
| Application fees | $90 - $150 |
| Estimated total | $4,100 - $9,500+ |
Note: Prices may vary depending on your exact location within Adelaide.
Moving to, from, or within Adelaide can be an exciting adventure, but it’s also full of hidden costs that can sneak up on you. From removalist fees and stamp duty to home styling and those unexpected extras, it's important to understand all the expenses involved before you dive in.
At Upmove, we get that moving can be overwhelming—that’s why we're here to make things easier. We connect you with trusted, affordable Adelaide removalists who know the local area and can offer you a fair, transparent quote..
With some thoughtful planning, expert help, and a clear budget, you can reduce stress and enjoy a smoother transition into your new home. Whether you're moving around Adelaide or anywhere else in Australia, Upmove has you covered every step of the way.
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