Moving to a new place in Perth can be an exciting adventure, but it does come with its own set of challenges. Known for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and outdoor culture, Perth is a city with a lot to offer. However, navigating the area, working around its unique climate, and local quirks requires some thoughtful preparation.
This guide is here to help you through every step of moving in and around Perth, with practical advice on everything from budgeting and packing, to finding the best moving company.
Let’s dive in.
Moving in Perth comes with its own set of unique challenges, whether you're moving across the river or swapping cities entirely. The relaxed pace and sunny weather are part of Perth’s charm, but the city’s widespread layout and occasional heatwaves mean it’s wise to plan your move consciously.
From the vibrant vibe of Northbridge to the more serene surroundings of Subiaco, each part of Perth offers its own moving hurdles. Toss in the high demand for rental properties, the cost of professional movers, and the complexities of packing, and it's easy to feel a bit overwhelmed.
But don’t stress—we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help make your move to Perth as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Housing: The property scene in Perth is competitive, especially in popular spots like Subiaco or Leederville. If you’re after something more affordable, try looking in areas like Morley or Mount Hawthorn.
Transport: When it comes to getting around, Perth’s public transport may not be as vast as other cities, but it’s still convenient. You’ll need a SmartRider card for trains and buses, and the free CAT buses make city travel a breeze.
Weather: Perth is known for its warm weather, but summers can get scorching. Spring or autumn are your best bets for a move, as temperatures are more manageable, with occasional rain here and there.
Cost of living: Perth can be pricey, though more affordable than in Sydney or Melbourne. Make sure to factor in housing, food, and lifestyle costs when planning your budget.
Getting organised and staying on top of your move is key to making the process smooth and stress-free. Use this checklist to keep you on track every step of the way.
The costs of hiring movers can vary depending on the size of your home and the distance of the move. For a compact one-bedroom unit, you might expect to pay between $240 and $640, but for a larger property, like a four-bedroom house, the cost could easily exceed $3,500. The location also plays a big role—moving within Perth’s inner suburbs is typically cheaper than relocating to areas further out, such as Mandurah or Swan Valley.
For those buying property in Perth, be ready for extra expenses like legal fees, inspections, and conveyancing. Sellers should also account for costs related to advertising and real estate agent commissions.
If you’re renting, don’t forget to budget for the bond and initial rental payments. There are also the smaller costs that sneak up on you—setting up utilities, buying packing supplies, and potentially paying for a parking permit if you're moving to a busy area. It can seem like a lot, but with a bit of prep, everything will fall into place. For a deeper dive into moving costs in Perth, check out our full guide.
When it comes to moving in Perth, the big question is: should you hire professionals or take the DIY route? Each option has its perks and challenges, so the choice depends on your budget, timeline, and how much work you’re up for.
Let’s break it down.
Why it’s a win
What it might cost you
The downside
Packing your home for a move doesn’t have to be a chaotic mess. By tackling each room methodically, you’ll stay organised and make your move to Perth a whole lot smoother. Start early, label everything, and before you know it, you’ll be ready for the next chapter in your new home.
Packing’s done, and now it’s time to clean up before you say goodbye to your old home. Whether you're renting or selling, giving your place a thorough clean is key. Here’s an easy-to-follow approach that will help you leave things in great shape.
Start by cleaning the ceilings, light fixtures, and vents. These often collect dust, and cleaning them first means you won’t drop dirt onto areas you’ve already done. Once that’s sorted, work your way down to the walls and floors.
The kitchen often requires the most work. Wipe down countertops, sinks, and all appliances. Don’t forget about the stove and oven—both the tops and the areas around them—and the space behind the fridge. These spots can easily get overlooked, but they’re essential for a thorough clean.
In the bathroom, focus on scrubbing the tiles and grout. Clean mirrors and sinks, and give extra attention to high-touch spots like the toilet and shower. Clear off any soap scum or watermarks, and make sure everything shines.
Sweep or vacuum every floor in the house, paying attention to corners, under furniture, and behind doors. It’s easy to forget these spots, but a quick sweep will make the space feel cleaner and more inviting.
If your carpets have seen better days, consider calling in a professional to steam clean them. They can get rid of stains and refresh the look of your home, giving it a crisp, clean feel.
Make sure you’ve cleared out all the rubbish—especially from spaces like the garage, shed, and storage areas. Anything left behind could be a hassle for the next person, so get rid of it before you go.
Once everything’s cleaned, do one last walk-through of the house. It’s a great way to check for missed spots. If you’re in a rental, snapping a few photos of the cleaned areas is a smart idea to back up your bond return claim.
When you're moving to a new home in Perth, one of the last things you want to deal with is trying to fit all of your items into a smaller space or a house that’s not quite ready yet. That’s where storage options come in handy. Whether you need to stash things for a few weeks or a few months, there are a range of affordable and flexible storage solutions to help smooth the process.
The cost of storage in Perth will depend on a couple of factors, like the size of the unit and where it’s located. Typically, for a medium-sized storage unit, you’re looking at around $225–$535 per month, though prices can creep higher if you’re closer to the city centre or need something bigger. For large-scale storage, like if you're moving an entire household worth of furniture, expect to pay a bit more—probably around $500+ per month.
If you want a more flexible option, mobile storage could be your best bet. Instead of hauling your things to a traditional storage facility, a mobile storage company drops off a container, you load it at your convenience, and they pick it up and store it for you. It’s often a more affordable choice and gives you more control over the process.
TIP: If you’re storing things for several months, it’s worth asking about long-term deals or discounts. A lot of places will offer better rates the longer you book.
One thing to keep in mind is insurance. While many storage companies provide basic coverage, it’s often pretty minimal. If you have valuable or irreplaceable items, consider adding extra protection for peace of mind.
If you’ve got kids, pets, or elderly relatives in tow, you’ll need a bit more planning to make sure your move goes smoothly for everyone.
Here’s a rundown of how to handle the moving day chaos, Perth-style.
Make sure you’ve got your pet’s food, water, and a few comforting things like a favourite blanket or toy. For longer trips, it might be worth looking into a pet transport service—they’ll take care of your pet, so you don’t have to worry about any in-transit stress.
Moving can be a rollercoaster for kids. One minute they’re excited about their new bedroom, and the next they’re overwhelmed by all the packing and change. Help them get involved by letting them pack some of their own items. It gives them a little control over the situation. If you’re moving within Perth, try to take a little detour to show them their new local park or school to make the transition a bit more exciting.
When you’re helping an elderly family member move, it’s a whole different ballgame. You’ll want to make sure everything is extra comfortable for them, especially if they have mobility concerns. Make sure their medications, important documents, and personal items are packed separately in an easy-to-reach bag, and be sure to double-check if their new home is well-suited for any mobility aids they might need.
If you’re moving with a disability, a bit of extra prep can go a long way. Perth is home to some new builds with great accessibility features—think ramps, wider doorways, and step-free entrances—but it’s still a good idea to check your new place before moving day. You’ll also want to pack your medications and any medical supplies separately, so they’re always within easy reach. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, it’s also smart to research nearby medical centres or support services, so you have peace of mind when settling into your new home.
Moving to, from, or within Perth 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 Perth removalists.
Our platform simplifies the search for reliable movers, offering clear, upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect.
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