Planning a move can be exciting, but it can also bring a lot of questions—especially when it comes to how much it will cost. Whether you’re moving locally within Newcastle or venturing to another state, understanding the breakdown of moving expenses is key to staying on budget. In this complete guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about moving costs in Newcastle.
We’ll also explore factors like home size, interstate moves, what’s included in removalist quotes, and how understanding Newcastle’s layout can impact your move. Plus, we’ll discuss the rising trend of home styling, backloading, and offer money-saving tips to make your move as smooth as possible.
Let’s get started.
When it comes to hiring local mover, most companies charge by the hour, with a standard minimum of 2 hours for local moves. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $139 and $158 per hour, though the final price depends on factors such as the size of the truck, the number of movers required, and whether you're moving from the city or one of Newcastle’s outer suburbs.
It's important to keep in mind that timing can play a role in the final cost. For example, peak moving seasons or busy times of day might result in higher charges. To ensure you’re getting the best deal, it’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes and compare prices from different removalists in Newcastle. This will give you a clearer picture of what you should expect and help you avoid any surprises on moving day.
Newcastle removalist hourly rates typically range between $139 and $158.
The cost of hiring a moving company can vary depending on the size of your home and where you’re moving to. If you're moving from popular areas like the city centre or the suburbs near the beach, you may pay a bit more due to narrow streets and parking challenges.
On the other hand, moving from outer suburbs like Mayfield or Wallsend might be pricier because of the longer distances. To help make it all clearer, we've broken down what you can expect to pay based on your home size in Newcastle.
| Size of home | Removalists cost |
| Studio or 1-bed unit | $380 - $820 |
| 2-bed unit | $630 - $1,250 |
| 2-bed home | $890 - $1,320 |
| 3-bed home | $1,040 - $1,470 |
| 4-bed home | $1,550 - $2,130 |
These prices usually cover truck hire and the movers' time, but a few extra factors can impact the cost. It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes and chat with your movers about the details so you’re not caught off guard. We’ll get into all of this a little later, or if you’re eager to know, you can jump ahead and read more about what’s included in your quote and what might drive up the costs.
Moving interstate can be a bit trickier (and pricier) than a local move, but knowing what to expect makes it a whole lot easier to plan. The final cost will depend on a few things—like how big your home is, how much stuff you have, and the distance between the two cities. In this section, we’ll break down what you can typically expect to pay for an interstate move, using a Newcastle to Brisbane move as an example, so you can get a better idea of what’s in store.
| Size of home | Average cost |
| Average 2-bed apartment | $2,750 |
| Average 2-bed house | $3,100 |
| Average 3-bed house | $3,990 |
* These numbers are based on the most up-to-date details from 2025.
Removalists in Newcastle charge between $2,750 and $5,300 for a big interstate move such as Brisbane.
Keep in mind, these are just ballpark figures, so it’s always a good idea to get a few quotes based on your exact needs.
When you receive a quote it generally includes a few key things to cover the basics of your move. Most quotes will account for the time it takes to load, transport, and unload your belongings, the use of the truck, and any necessary equipment like trolleys, blankets, and straps to protect your furniture. Some quotes might also include basic insurance to give you peace of mind in case of any accidents. However, there can be extra costs depending on your situation, so it’s good to ask about these upfront.
Tip: Ask for a clear breakdown of the quote so you know exactly what’s covered.
When it comes to moving in traffic, congestion, and parking might not be the first things on your mind, but trust us—they're crucial for a smooth and stress-free day. Knowing the busy spots and peak travel times can save you a lot of time and hassle. Here’s a quick rundown of the trouble areas you’ll want to be aware of as you plan your move.
Newcastle can get pretty busy, especially during rush hour or peak times, so it’s worth keeping an eye on traffic. Areas where you might run into delays include:
If possible, try to plan your move outside of peak hours or consider using alternate routes to avoid the worst of the traffic.
Parking can be a bit of a challenge in some parts of Newcastle, particularly in the more crowded areas like the city centre or around the beach suburbs. Places like Merewether and Cooks Hill tend to have tighter spaces, especially on weekends when everyone’s out enjoying the beach or the local cafes.
It's a good idea to scope out parking options for your removalist truck ahead of time—look for quiet streets, loading zones, or even check if there are any off-street parking areas nearby. Have a look at residential, visitor and free street parking on the City of Newcastle website.
When you're moving in Newcastle, it’s easy to focus just on the removalist fees, but there are a few other costs you’ll want to keep in mind. Whether you're buying, selling, or renting, there are plenty of extra fees that can catch you off guard. Don’t worry, though—we’re here to break down the most common ones so you can plan ahead and avoid any surprises. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to consider beyond the removalist costs.
Stamp duty is a tax you pay when you buy a property, and it’s based on the price of the home. For a property worth $1 million, you can expect to pay around $40,000 in stamp duty. It might sound like a lot, but there are online calculators to help you get a more accurate idea based on the exact price of the property you’re buying.
If you’re purchasing or refinancing a property, you may need a property valuation to confirm its value. For a $1 million property, you can expect to pay anywhere between $300 and $600 for a basic valuation. It’s not always a must, but it’s a good way to make sure you’re not overpaying.
When it comes to selling your property in Newcastle, real estate agent fees are one of the biggest costs you’ll encounter. Typically, these fees range from 1.5% to 3.5% of the sale price. So, if you're selling a $1 million home, you're looking at anywhere between $15,000 and $35,000 in agent fees. While it may sound like a lot, remember that a good agent can be a valuable ally in helping you get the best price for your property.
But here’s the thing—real estate agent fees don’t always include everything you might expect. Marketing and advertising, for example, often come at an extra cost. Some agents might charge extra for professional photography, floor plans, and online listings. Others might bundle these services into their fee, but it’s important to check exactly what’s included. Depending on the agent, you might also pay for things like print ads, video tours, or even open house events.
Given how much agents can charge, it’s worth negotiating the fees and discussing what services you want included. Don’t be afraid to shop around and get a few quotes from different agents in Newcastle. Each agent has a different approach and set of services, so comparing a few will give you a better idea of what you're getting for your money. Sometimes a slightly higher commission rate might be worth it if the agent provides more marketing support or has a proven track record of selling quickly and at a good price.
Conveyancing fees cover the legal work involved in buying or selling a property. These fees typically range from $800 to $2,000, depending on the complexity of the transaction. A conveyancer’s job is to handle all the paperwork, make sure the contract is clear, check for any legal issues with the property, and ensure the transfer of ownership goes smoothly.
While you can technically do the conveyancing yourself, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional. Property transactions can be complicated, and any legal misstep can lead to big headaches down the road. Conveyancers are specialists in property law and have the expertise to spot potential issues you might miss.
You’ll also hear about solicitors and lawyers offering conveyancing services. They’re similar to conveyancers, but lawyers usually charge more and may offer additional legal services if needed. The key difference is that lawyers can represent you in court, while conveyancers focus specifically on property transactions. For most people, a qualified conveyancer is all you need, but if your situation is complex, a solicitor could be the way to go.
Cleaning fees are something you'll likely face, particularly if you’re renting and need to ensure the property is spotless to get your bond back. Professional cleaning for a standard home in Newcastle generally costs anywhere between $300 to $600, but it can vary depending on the size of the property and how much work is needed. Larger homes, or places that need deep cleaning, may cost a bit more, especially if you're doing a thorough end-of-lease clean.
Even if you’re selling, you might want to consider getting a professional cleaner in to freshen up the place before showing it to potential buyers. It’s a small cost that can make a big difference in how your home presents.
Home styling (or home staging) is the art of presenting your property in the best possible light for sale. It involves decluttering, rearranging furniture, and sometimes adding new decor to make the home look more inviting and spacious. Essentially, it's about helping buyers imagine themselves living in the space.
While it’s not absolutely necessary, home styling can definitely give your property an edge, especially in competitive markets like Newcastle. With more buyers looking online before they even step through the door, having an attractive, well-styled home can make a big difference in attracting interest. If you’re in a sought-after suburb like Merewether or Cooks Hill, where homes can get snapped up quickly, styling can be a smart investment.
Home styling can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the size of your home, how much work is involved, and the styling company you choose. For a basic package, you might pay around $1,500 for a few key rooms to be styled, but for a full home makeover, it could go up to $4,000 or more.
If you're looking to sell quickly and for top dollar, home styling is often worth the investment. A stylish home can create an emotional connection with buyers, making them more likely to pay a premium. It’s especially useful for homes that are empty or need a bit of a makeover. Just make sure to get a few quotes and consider the overall market in your area to decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Backloading is a clever way to save on your move. Basically, it’s when you share a removal truck with someone else who's moving in the opposite direction. The truck has some empty space after delivering the other person’s stuff, so you get to take advantage of it for a cheaper price. If you’re flexible with your timing, it’s a great budget-friendly option.
The main thing with backloading is the timing—it’s not as precise as booking a truck for just your move. You might need to be flexible with when your things are picked up or delivered, and sometimes the dates can be a bit up in the air. Also, since you’re sharing space, there’s a slight risk of your things getting jostled around if they’re not packed carefully.
If you're on a budget and can work with a bit of flexibility, backloading can be a great way to save some cash. Just make sure you go with a trusted removalist who knows what they’re doing. If you don’t mind waiting for the right timing, it could be a win for your wallet.
Here are a few tips to keep your costs down:
Below is a breakdown of typical costs involved when buying or selling property:
| Service | Cost |
| Removalists (local move) | $417 - $943 (for a 2-3 bedroom home) |
| Conveyancing fees | $800 - $2,000 |
| Stamp duty | Approx. $40,000 (for a $1M home) |
| Real estate agent fees | $15,000 - $35,000 (for a $1M home) |
| Marketing | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Property valuation | $300 - $600 |
| Inspections (building & pest) | $400 - $800 |
| Home styling (optional) | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Packing materials | $100 - $300 |
| Utility connections | $50 - $200 |
| Estimated total | $57,500 - $97,500+ |
Prices may vary depending on the specific location within Newcastle.
If you're renting, there are additional costs to consider beyond just the removalist fees:
| Service | Cost |
| Removalists (local move) | $278 - $472 (for a 1-bedroom unit) |
| End-of-lease cleaning | $200 - $750 (depending on property size) |
| Bond | $1,200 - $2,500+ (typically 4 weeks' rent) |
| First month’s rent | $1,200 - $2,500+ |
| 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+ |
Prices may vary depending on the specific location within Newcastle.
Moving to, from, or within Newcastle 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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle or anywhere else in Australia, Upmove has you covered every step of the way.
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