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Perth's essential moving checklist and relocation guide

Plan your Perth move with our comprehensive relocation guide and moving house checklist. Discover packing tips, budgeting advice, and much more.
By · January 28, 2025
Perth's essential moving checklist and relocation guide

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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.

Introduction to moving house in Perth

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.

Overview of the moving process

  • Set a realistic budget, and book your Perth Removalists as early as possible.
  • Consider roads, parking restrictions, and public transport routes - especially if you're moving to or from the central city areas.
  • Stay one step ahead of any hiccups by checking out access and tricky, narrow hallways you need to move your furniture down in advance.
  • Don't forget about the admin side of things, either. Update your address with utility providers and local services as soon as you can. Perth is divided into multiple local government areas, so make sure you're registered with the correct council for things like waste collection and rates.

Movers in Perth - things to keep in mind

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.

Perth moving house checklist

woman wrapping a glass in bubblewrap

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.

10+ weeks before your move

  • Explore Perth suburbs: Start by understanding your ideal location—are you after the city vibe or something more suburban? Areas like Subiaco and Fremantle are favourites, but places like Morley or Carlisle might offer better value.
  • Set a realistic budget: Factor in everything—removalists, packing materials, utility setup fees etc.
  • Book movers early: Perth removalists can get busy
  • Look into storage options: Need space for your things temporarily? Research storage units across Perth.
  • Declutter: Moving is the perfect time to sort through your belongings. Keep what matters, donate or sell what doesn’t.
  • Tackle your packing plan: Don’t leave it packing until the last minute.
  • Notify your landlord or agent: If you’re renting, let them know you’re moving out and arrange for an inspection.

6+ weeks before your move

  • Start packing things you don’t use often.
  • Order packing supplies - ready for a smooth packing process.
  • Update utilities and services.
  • Change your address with Australia Post, banks, and subscription services so your mail gets to the right place.
  • Sort valuable or fragile items - a little extra care is needed for delicate items like art, electronics, and antiques.
  • Check for parking permits: If you’re moving into a high-traffic area like the CBD, make sure you apply for any necessary parking permits for the moving truck.

4+ weeks before your move

  • Confirm your moving company.
  • Book cleaning services.
  • Plan for pets or kids - make arrangements for them to be cared for on moving day.
  • Visit your new home and carry out any repairs or cleaning.

woman holding packing tape

2+ weeks before your move

  • Keep packing.
  • Prepare an essentials box—think toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents.
  • Update your details: driver’s license, car registration, and electoral roll.

1 week before your move

  • Confirm the logistics: Finalise moving day details with your removalist.
  • Finish cleaning.
  • Pack the last few items.
  • Plan the best route to your new place and keep an eye on traffic.
  • Sort out childcare or pet care.

Moving day

  • Reserve a parking spot for the moving truck—especially in busy areas.
  • Let the movers work: step aside and let the professionals handle the heavy lifting.
  • Do a final check to make sure nothing is left behind.
  • Get settled into your new place.

After the move

  • Unpack strategically: Start with the essentials—kitchen and bedrooms—so you can live in comfort right away.
  • Confirm deliveries: Make sure all boxes and furniture have made it to the right rooms.
  • Get to know your new neighbourhood.

Perth removalist budget

woman sitting on a couch with a laptop

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.

Hiring vs. DIY moving - what’s best for you?

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.

Hiring Professional Movers in Perth

Why it’s a win

  • Fast & efficient: Movers know how to pack and move quickly, getting your belongings from your old place to your new one with minimal hassle. They handle all the logistics, so you don’t have to worry about getting stuck in traffic or figuring out the best route.
  • Less stress: From packing delicate items to unloading furniture, they take care of the hard stuff. You can focus on the details of settling into your new place.
  • Peace of mind: Many furniture removalists in Perth offer insurance coverage, which means that if something does go wrong, you won’t be left with the financial burden of replacing or repairing damaged items.
  • Special handling: Moving things like fragile glassware, artwork, or large furniture is no easy feat. Perth’s professional movers have the expertise to handle your valuables safely—no worries about that awkward narrow hallway or the tricky stairwell.

What it might cost you

  • Higher price tag: Professional movers are an investment. Depending on the size of your home and distance, this can add up quickly.
  • Unexpected fees: Extra charges can pop up, like long carries (when the truck can’t park directly at your door), or fees for narrow access, lifts, or stairs.

DIY moving

The appeal

  • Save some cash: If you're on a tight budget, DIY is the most affordable way to go. Especially if you’re not moving a lot of heavy furniture or travelling long distances, this can be a cost-effective option.
  • You’re in control: Want to move at your own pace? DIY means you decide when, how, and at what speed. No stress over a moving team’s schedule.

The downside

  • Time-consuming: Moving is exhausting, and when you’re doing it all yourself, it can take much longer than you expect. Packing, loading, driving, and unloading—it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
  • Hard on your body: Heavy lifting and long hours of manual labour can lead to injuries, especially if you’re not used to it.
  • Risk of damage: Without professional packing and handling skills, you run the risk of damaging your belongings. A poorly packed box or improperly loaded truck could mean a lot of broken items by the end of the move.

How to pack up each room

removalist and woman standing with boxes

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.

1. Outdoor areas: garden, shed, and storage

  • Tools: Start by sorting through your tools—if anything is broken or rusted, now’s the time to say goodbye. For smaller items, gather them into boxes, and for bigger items like lawnmowers, drape a blanket over them for protection.
  • Furniture: If you’ve got outdoor furniture, disassemble any pieces that can be taken apart, then wrap everything in protective blankets.
  • Plants and pots: When packing plants, try to use sturdy boxes to hold pots, and make sure fragile items like glass planters are well-cushioned with paper or bubble wrap.

2. Guest rooms

  • Bedding: You’ll want to keep things easy, so stuff bedding into large boxes or bins. Label them well, so it’s easy to find when you arrive.
  • Furniture: If you can, take apart any bulky furniture—bag up screws and bolts in sandwich bags, then label them. This way, you’ll have everything you need when it’s time to reassemble.

3. The office

  • Paperwork: Take the opportunity to declutter and shred any paperwork you no longer need. Pack essential documents in a dedicated file box for easy access.
  • Electronics: Use bubble wrap to carefully wrap up any electronics like computers and printers. If you’ve got the original boxes, that’s even better.
  • Furniture: If possible, disassemble larger items like desks. Pack smaller things like pens, stationery, and books into boxes or drawers, and make sure they’re well-packed to avoid any breakage.

removalist picking up television

4. Living and dining areas

  • Electronics: For your TV, stereo, and other gadgets, using the original packaging (if you’ve kept it) is the best choice. If not, wrap them in blankets to keep them safe.
  • Furniture: You don’t want your sofas and tables getting scratched, so wrap them up in moving blankets or furniture pads. If you can, take apart what you can to save space and protect them.
  • Books and decorations: For books, opt for small boxes—this makes them easier to carry. Wrap fragile decor items in bubble wrap to make sure they’re cushioned during the move.
  • Soft furnishings: Cushions and throws are best rolled up and packed into large bags or boxes to avoid creasing.

5. Main bedroom

  • Clothes: Use wardrobe boxes to keep your hanging clothes wrinkle-free. Fold up everything else into suitcases or regular boxes.
  • Bedding: Put all your bedding into one or two large boxes—don’t forget to label them clearly.
  • Furniture: Disassemble any large pieces like wardrobes or bed frames. Keep screws and bolts in sealed bags, and label them by the furniture piece they belong to.
  • Personal items: Pack books, gadgets, and any small personal items into boxes—use dividers for fragile items like photos or jewellery.

6. Bathrooms

  • Declutter: Now’s a great time to get rid of old toiletries, expired medicines, or beauty products you no longer use.
  • Toiletries: Pack liquids in ziplock bags to prevent spills. Group all your toiletries into one box to make them easy to find when you’re setting up your new bathroom.
  • Fragile items: Use bubble wrap to pack mirrors, glass jars, or any other delicate items in your bathroom.

7. The kitchen

  • Declutter: Sort through your cupboards and pantry—ditch expired food or things you’ve been holding onto for far too long.
  • Dishes and glassware: Carefully wrap breakables in paper or bubble wrap. Plates and bowls can be stacked together, but glasses are best packed individually with dividers.
  • Appliances: For kitchen appliances like mixers, blenders, and toasters, wrap them in moving blankets or bubble wrap and pack them in large, sturdy boxes.
  • Food: Try to eat up as much of your perishable food as possible. For canned goods and dry items, group them in small boxes so they’re easier to move.

Cleaning guide - to bond / end of lease standard

three removalists moving a bed

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.

1. Tackle the high spots first

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.

2. Give the kitchen some love

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.

3. Freshen up the bathroom

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.

4. Floors need attention too

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.

5. Don’t forget the carpets

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.

6. Take care of the rubbish

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.

7. Final walkthrough

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.

Perth storage options - cost breakdown

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.

In short:

  • Medium-sized units: Around $225–$535/month
  • Larger units: Prices go up depending on the size
  • Mobile storage: A flexible and usually cheaper option
  • Insurance: Always worth considering, especially for high-value items

Preparing for special circumstances

dog sitting in car.png

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.

Moving with pets

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 with kids

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.

Moving with elderly relatives

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.

Moving with a disability

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.

Finding the best Perth removalists

two removalists standing in front of truck

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.

What do our customers say?

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