Moving house in Sydney is more than just packing boxes and hiring removalists. It's a complex, costly process that can easily surprise you if you're not prepared. Whether you're moving locally within the city or making the leap interstate, there are a variety of expenses you might not have considered.
From removalist fees to property valuations, stamp duty, and even home styling, the true cost of relocating goes far beyond the price of hiring a truck.
In this no-nonsense guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: the costs of moving within different Sydney suburbs, tips for saving money, expert advice, and a real-life case study from a recent Sydney move.
With this guide, you’ll be fully equipped to navigate the financial side of your move and avoid those unexpected expenses that can quickly add up.
When it comes to hiring removalists in Sydney, understanding how pricing works is key to avoiding any surprises. Most removalist companies charge by the hour, with a minimum of 2 hours for local moves.
For Sydney, hourly rates typically range between $110 and $140, depending on factors like the size of the truck and the number of movers required. Peak times, such as weekends or the end of the month, can also influence the cost (don’t worry we’ll get into all of this shortly).
To get an accurate estimate for your move, it's always a good idea to speak to a few Sydney removalists based on your specific needs, but to get you started we’ve broken down average costs below by home size and location (local vs interstate moves).
Sydney Removalists hourly rates typically range between $110 and $140
When moving within Sydney, the cost of hiring removalists largely depends on the size of your home. At Upmove we’ve crunched the numbers to give you a better idea of what you can expect to pay for your move based on your home size.
| Size of home | Removalists cost |
| Studio or 1-bed unit | $390 - $920 |
| 2-bed unit | $840 - $1,350 |
| 2-bed home | $920 - $1,400 |
| 3-bed home | $1,150 - $1,520 |
| 4-bed home | $1,600 - $2,450 |
These prices generally cover truck hire, labour, and standard services. Of course, the bigger the home and the more furniture, the more movers and time will be needed to get everything packed up and transported, which drives up the cost.
Things like parking access, stairs, or the need to disassemble large furniture can also affect the final price, more on this later in the article or click here to jump forward and read about inclusions and what could increase your costs.
When moving interstate to or from Sydney, the costs can vary quite a bit depending on your destination. Below will give you clearer idea of what costs you might expect.
According to our most recent data (2024) you can expect to pay between $1,860 and $4,440 for removalist costs between Sydney and Brisbane.
Let’s break it down a little more:
| Size of home | Average cost |
| Average 2-bed apartment | $2,250 |
| Average 3-bed house | $3,380 |
You can expect to pay between $1,860 and $4,440 for removalist costs between Sydney and Brisbane.
As you can see, moving to destinations like Brisbane will generally cost more due to the longer distances involved, with larger homes naturally pushing the price higher. Meanwhile, shorter moves, like from Melbourne to Sydney, tend to be more affordable.
When you hire removalists in Sydney, the quoted price generally includes the following:
While the upfront quote from a moving company in Sydney may seem straightforward, there are several hidden costs that could creep in if you're not careful. Some of these additional fees may include:
TIP: Always ask for a detailed breakdown of potential fees before confirming your booking.
Understanding the layout of Sydney and its various neighborhoods is crucial when planning your move. The city's geography and road networks can have a big impact on both the cost and logistics of your relocation.
For example, moving from the inner city to the outer suburbs may involve longer travel times, which could increase your removalist bill. Areas like the Eastern Suburbs or North Shore, known for their dense traffic and limited parking, might require extra time for maneuvering and parking fees.
On the other hand, more spacious suburbs in the west or south might offer easier access but come with their own unique challenges, such as longer distances to the moving truck or more complex routes.
By understanding these local nuances, you can better plan for your move and potentially save time and money. To help, we’ve noted key Sydney areas, highlighting things like road congestion hotspots, access points, and parking zones, so you can get a clearer picture of what to expect. Being prepared for these local factors can make your move much smoother, with fewer surprises along the way.
When planning your move, it's essential to consider Sydney’s traffic congestion, as it can impact how long it takes for your removalists to get to and from your home, potentially adding to the cost.
Key congestion hotspots include:
Use this map to get a sense of which areas are more likely to cause delays. If you're moving into or out of one of these areas, it's worth considering timing your move during off-peak hours or looking into alternate routes to avoid the worst of the traffic. This simple step could save you both time and money by minimising the extra charges due to congestion.
Parking in Sydney can be quite a challenge, especially in busy or densely populated areas. If your new home is in a zone with limited or expensive parking, it could increase your removalist costs, as they may need to park further away from your property or spend extra time finding a spot. In some cases, removalists might need to obtain a parking permit or pay for metered parking which would incur an additional cost to you.
Parking issues are most common in high demand areas in:
If you're moving into a zone with limited parking, consider arranging a permit in advance, or explore alternate parking options to reduce the chances of delays and additional fees on moving day.
There are a number of other expenses that can add up quickly and affect your overall moving budget. From stamp duty, property valuations, conveyancing fees, understanding these costs is crucial for staying on top of your finances.
Whether you're relocating locally or making a big move to another state, knowing what to expect can help you avoid any surprises. In this section, we'll break down the essential costs that could factor into your move, along with some smart strategies to help you save money along the way.
Let’s dive in.
Stamp duty is one of the largest upfront costs when purchasing a property in Sydney. It’s a government tax that is calculated based on the purchase price of the property. For example, if you buy a property for $1 million, you could be looking at a stamp duty cost of around $40,000.
The rate varies depending on the value of the property, with higher rates applied to more expensive homes. First-time homebuyers may be eligible for discounts or exemptions, but for most, this is a significant expense to factor into your budget. It's important to calculate stamp duty costs ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard at settlement.
For calculating stamp duty, head to Stamp duty for properties bought in NSW.
Property valuation is another cost to consider when moving in or out of Sydney. A property valuation is often required by banks or lenders if you’re financing your property purchase, but it’s also useful if you're selling. Valuation fees typically range from $300 to $600, depending on the complexity of the property and the provider.
It’s worth noting that while not all sales require a professional valuation, some lenders will insist on one to assess the property’s market value. Having an up-to-date valuation can also help ensure you’re not paying more than the property is worth, whether you're buying or selling.
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership, and it’s another key cost to consider. In Sydney, conveyancing fees generally range between $800 and $2,500, depending on the complexity of the sale or purchase.
These fees can vary based on whether you hire a solicitor or a licensed conveyancer, with solicitors typically charging higher rates. Conveyancers handle all the legal paperwork involved in the transaction, including contracts, title searches, and liaising with your lender or the seller’s representative.
While it’s possible to handle conveyancing yourself, hiring a professional is highly recommended to avoid costly mistakes and ensure the process goes smoothly.
Cleaning is an often-overlooked cost that can add up quickly. Most rental agreements require a professional clean before handing back the keys, and the cost can vary depending on the size of the property and the level of service.
You can expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $700 for end-of-lease cleaning in Sydney, with larger homes or those needing more detailed work (like carpet cleaning or pest treatments) pushing the price higher.
If you're selling a property in Sydney, real estate agent fees are an important cost to factor in. These fees generally range from 1.5% to 3% of the sale price, though some agents may charge a flat fee instead.
For a property sold at $1 million, this means you could pay anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 in commission. Keep in mind that this is typically a negotiable fee, and you may be able to shop around for an agent who offers a competitive rate.
When hiring an agent, it’s crucial to understand what services are included in the commission, such as marketing costs and open house arrangements, to ensure you’re getting value for money.
Home styling (or home staging) is the process of preparing your property for sale or rent by arranging furniture, decor, and other elements to make it more visually appealing to potential buyers or tenants.
While it may seem like an extra expense, home styling can significantly increase the appeal of your property and potentially boost its sale price.
In Sydney, home styling costs can vary widely, with basic packages starting around $2,000 for a few key rooms, and more comprehensive styling packages for larger homes or luxury properties ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. The price depends on the size of the home, the level of styling required, and the stylist's experience.
While it’s an additional upfront cost, home styling can shorten the time your property spends on the market, which can be especially important in a competitive market like Sydney.
Every weekend we see properties fetching anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 more per $1,000 invested in the styling process. So, if a client spends $5,000 on styling a property, we expect them to see an extra $25,000 to $50,000 on the sale price.
The Domain Group
Backloading can be a great way to save money on your move. It’s when you share space on a truck with other people moving along the same route, so you only pay for the space your items take up. This makes it more affordable, especially for long-distance moves like Sydney to Melbourne.
However, backloading comes with a few trade-offs. Since you’re sharing a truck, the timing can be less predictable, and delays are possible. Your belongings may also be handled more than once as the truck picks up and drops off other shipments, which can increase the risk of damage.
That said, many companies offer insurance to cover any issues. If you're flexible on timing and want to save some cash, backloading can be a good option. Just make sure to confirm the details with your removalists.
Here are some quick tips to keep costs down when moving to, from or within Sydney.
Book early & avoid peak times: The earlier you book, the cheaper it’ll be. Move during weekdays or outside of busy times like weekends or month-end to avoid premium rates.
Use backloading: If you’re flexible, backloading can save you a lot. For example, moving from Sydney to Brisbane could cost $1,860 - $4,440, but backloading might slash that price by half. Just be prepared for longer wait times.
Declutter: The fewer items you have, the less you’ll pay. If you’re moving a 1-bedroom unit, expect costs between $390 - $620—get rid of anything you don’t need to keep the bill lower.
Timing is key: Sydney’s traffic is a real cost factor. Moving during peak hours can lead to delays and extra charges, so aim for early morning or mid-week to avoid congestion.
Get multiple quotes: Removalist prices can vary widely. For a 3-bedroom home move, expect $1,150 - $1,520 locally. Shop around and compare quotes to find the best deal.
Check access and parking: If you’re moving in or out of areas with limited parking (like Paddington or the CBD), plan ahead. Extra time spent finding parking or hauling items from further away can add unexpected costs.
With a little planning and flexibility, you can keep your move within budget while avoiding any surprises.
Here’s a quick and easy budgeting reference for a typical move within Sydney (e.g., 3-bedroom home):
| Service | Cost |
| Removalists Sydney costs | $1,150 - $1,520 |
| Conveyancing fees | $800 - $2,500 |
| Stamp duty | $40,000 |
| Real estate agent fees | $15,000 - $30,000 |
| Marketing | $1,000 - $10,000 |
| Property valuation | $300 - $600 |
| Inspections (building & pest) | $400 - $800 |
| Home styling (optional) | $2,000 - $10,000 |
| Professional cleaning | $400 - $700 |
| Packing materials | $100 - $300 |
| Utility connections | $50 - $200 |
| Estimated total | $61,200 - $96,620 |
| Service | Cost |
| Removalists Sydney costs | $1,150 - $1,520 |
| End of lease cleaning | $400 - $700 |
| Bond (typically 4 weeks rent) | $3,100 - $6,000* |
| First month’s rent upfront | $3,100 - $6,000* |
| Packing materials | $100 - $300 |
| Cleaning for your new property | $150 - $400 |
| Utilities connection fees | $50 - $200 |
| Pet bond (if applicable) | $200 - $500 |
| Renters’ Insurance | $10 - $30 /mo |
| Application fees | $90 - $150 |
| Estimated Total | $8,350 - $15,800 |
*This figure will vary depending on the location in Sydney you are moving to.
In December 2024, John and Claire made the move from Sydney’s leafy North Shore to the laid-back beaches of the Central Coast. Like many, they had a general idea of moving expenses—packing, moving services, and so on—but quickly realised there were several unexpected costs.
In this case study, they share insights into the expected and hidden costs of their move, how they saved money along the way, and the lessons learned for anyone planning a similar relocation.
John:
"Timing, especially around storage, is a big factor when moving. If you're selling a property and not immediately moving into a new one, you'll need storage. Movers typically hold your belongings in a warehouse, and that incurs daily, weekly, or monthly costs."
John:
"In Sydney, home styling is common, particularly in premium areas. We opted for a partial style, where about half of our belongings went into storage and the rest were replaced with rented furniture for styling. For a six-week period, this cost us $7,000, with an additional weekly charge of around $800. When the property sale was finalised, the stylists removed their furniture, and the removalists came to pick up our remaining items."
"Home styling in Sydney is almost expected in higher-end markets to present your home in the best light. I'd recommend getting multiple quotes and choosing a stylist you feel comfortable with—prices can vary significantly."
John:
"Insurance was a surprise for us. We assumed our contents insurance would cover our belongings in storage, but it didn’t. We had to arrange separate storage insurance. Make sure to check your removalist’s insurance inclusions, as not all providers cover goods while in storage. Some only offer coverage if you request it when you first take out the policy."
John:
"Before moving, we realised we needed to question whether it was worth packing and moving everything. Some items, like our old sofa, seemed worth keeping but ended up costing us to move and store. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: 'What would I pay for this item now?' Often, selling unwanted items on Facebook Marketplace or donating them is a great way to reduce clutter—and even offset moving costs."
John:
"In Sydney, tipping (dumping) costs can be high. While you're allowed a few council pickups each year, you’ll likely need to dispose of unwanted items during a move. To save money, consider donating, selling, or giving items away rather than paying for disposal."
John:
"With utilities, timing is key. For example, we closed our broadband account at the end of the month, even though we weren't moving until the following week. If we hadn't, we'd have paid for another month's service, which would have been an unnecessary $100–$150. Little things like this add up, so it's worth being mindful of when to cancel or transfer services."
John:
"Marketing your home for sale comes with costs too. In Australia, you need to list on platforms like Domain and Realestate.com.au, which means doubling your marketing fees. Additionally, real estate agents often charge for photography, video, and brochure services, so factor these into your budget."
John and Claire's move from North Shore Sydney to Sydney's Central Coast was a significant life change, and their experience offers valuable lessons for anyone planning a similar relocation. While they anticipated the usual moving expenses, they were caught off guard by costs like storage, insurance, and home styling. By planning ahead—getting multiple quotes, decluttering before the move, and carefully timing utility transfers—they were able to manage some of the extra expenses.
Key takeaways:
While their move didn’t go entirely as planned, being proactive, flexible, and informed helped keep costs down and the experience stress-free.
Moving to, from, or within Sydney can be an exciting yet complex process, with many costs involved that are easy to overlook. Whether you're navigating the costs of Sydney removalists services, stamp duty, home styling, or the unexpected fees that can pop up, understanding the full picture is key to avoiding any financial surprises.
At Upmove, we understand how overwhelming the moving process can be, which is why we're here to connect you with reliable, affordable, and experienced Sydney removalists and beyond.
Our platform makes it easier to find trustworthy movers, get transparent quotes, and ensure your move goes smoothly, whether it’s down the street or interstate.
With the right planning, expert help, and a solid budget in place, you can minimise stress and enjoy a smoother transition into your new home.
So, whether you’re moving locally within Sydney, heading to Queensland, or anywhere else in Australia, Upmove is here to help you every step of the way.
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.
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