Reliable removalists in Adelaide - book now.

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$500

2 x Yamaha Organs piano

Palmerston, ACT

Googong, NSW

10

Rhonda

Reviewed 30 October, 2024

Highly recommend - great communication every step of the way!

Moving to a new home in Adelaide can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with a fair share of challenges. Whether you're relocating within the city or from a different state, having a solid plan in place is crucial to ensuring a smooth transition. This guide will walk you through every step of the moving process, from choosing the right movers to packing efficiently, managing your budget, and securing storage options.

We'll also cover essential tips on cleaning your rental property to ensure you get your bond back, as well as advice on special circumstances like relocating with pets or managing time-sensitive moves.

Not to mention you’ll get an action by action moving house checklist - tailored for Adelaide.

Let’s dive in.

• Introduction to moving house in Adelaide
• Overview of the moving process
• Movers in Adelaide - what you need to keep in mind
• Adelaide moving house checklist
• Budgeting for your Adelaide move
• Professional removalists Adelaide vs. DIY pack up
• Organising and decluttering
• Packing materials and supplies
• Packing up – Room by room guide for your Adelaide move
• Cleaning - How to ensure you get your rental bond back
• Adelaide storage options - cost breakdown
• Preparing for special circumstances
• Finding the best Adelaide removalists

Introduction to moving house in Adelaide

The ease with which a move in Adelaide rolls out is often shaped by the city’s distinctive neighbourhoods, weather conditions, transport infrastructure, and local regulations.

Adelaide's Mediterranean climate means you’ll need to prepare for hot summers and cooler, wetter winters, which can impact your moving day plans.

The city’s compact size and well-maintained road systems make it relatively easy to navigate. Still, peak traffic hours and parking restrictions—especially in the city centre or busier areas like North Adelaide—can still create hurdles.

And, whether you're relocating within popular suburbs like Glenelg, Norwood, or Unley, or moving to more suburban areas such as Salisbury or Marion, understanding the local environment can make a big difference.

But don’t worry - we’re covering the exact steps to take to make your Adelaide move roll out as smoothly as possible.

Overview of the moving process

• Plan and organise: Start by setting a timeline and listing everything that needs to be done (at least 8-10 weeks in advance).
• Set a realistic budget, and allow a buffer.
• Hire movers: Research and book reliable Adelaide removalists or decide if a DIY move is better for you.
• Declutter: Go through your belongings and sort out what to keep, donate, or sell.
• Pack strategically: Gather packing materials, label boxes, and pack room by room.
• Prepare your new home: Arrange utilities, change your address, and make sure the new place is ready.
• Moving day: Stay organised—direct the movers, double-check everything, and ensure nothing gets left behind.
• Cleaning: Clean your old home to ensure it’s in good condition, especially if you’re renting.

Movers in Adelaide - what you need to keep in mind

For starters, Adelaide is known for its more affordable housing compared to other major cities in Australia, but competitive suburbs like North Adelaide, Glenelg, and Norwood can still drive up prices. If you're on a budget, consider looking at up-and-coming areas like Prospect or Mawson Lakes, where you'll find more reasonably priced options without sacrificing convenience.

When it comes to getting around, Adelaide’s public transport system is well-connected, offering buses, trams, and trains that cover most of the metropolitan area. If you're living close to the city, trams are especially handy for quick trips. However, many people still rely on cars due to the spread-out nature of some suburbs, so it’s good to factor in parking and commute times.

Adelaide’s weather is something to consider, especially if you're moving during summer. With long, hot summers and mild winters, you’ll need to prepare for potential heat waves, which can make moving day quite challenging. Timing your move for the cooler months or preparing with plenty of water and sunscreen can help make the process easier.

Finally, take care of the practical details: update your address for your driver’s license, utilities, and internet, and make sure you're set up for services like waste collection. Adelaide’s smaller size means things like council registration and local services are often more straightforward, but double-checking these administrative tasks will help you settle in smoothly. Find out more from the City of Adelaide here.

Adelaide moving house checklist

10 weeks before the move

• Research and choose an Adelaide removalists or decide if you're doing a DIY move.
• Start sorting through your belongings—decide what to keep, donate, or sell.
• Begin researching and booking storage options if needed.
• Look into new home utilities (electricity, water, internet) and schedule connections.

6 weeks before the move

• Confirm your moving date with your removalist or rental truck company.
• Start gathering packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap, tape).
• Begin packing non-essential items (seasonal items, decor, extra kitchenware).
• Make arrangements for any special circumstances (pets, large items, fragile goods).
• Notify relevant parties of your change of address (banks, post office, subscriptions).

4 weeks before the move

• Continue packing and label boxes clearly by room and contents.
• Notify your landlord or property manager of your move-out date.
• Arrange for cleaners if you’re renting (or plan your own cleaning schedule).
• Check your insurance coverage for the move (both contents and transit).
• Confirm parking arrangements for the moving truck at both properties.

2 weeks before the move

• Begin disassembling furniture and pack smaller, more fragile items.
• Confirm your moving company’s arrival time and any last-minute details.
• Organise childcare or pet care for moving day if needed.
• Clean your old home as you go (or schedule cleaning services).
• Double-check your utilities (electricity, gas, internet) for the move-in date.

1 week before the move

• Pack an essentials box (toiletries, clothes, snacks, important documents).
• Confirm your move-out and move-in times with your removalist.
• Revisit your home and do a final declutter.
• Confirm any last-minute storage requirements.
• Prepare payment for the removalists.

Moving day

• Get up early and check that everything is ready for the movers.
• Direct the movers, ensuring fragile items are packed carefully.
• Do a final walkthrough of your old home to ensure nothing is left behind.
• Keep all important documents (keys, contracts, ID) with you.
• Once you arrive at your new home, do a quick check of the space before unloading.

Settling in

• Unpack essential items first (bed, bathroom, kitchen).
• Set up utilities (electricity, water, internet) if not already done.
• Start organising your new space room by room.
• Meet the neighbours and explore the local area.
• Take a deep breath and enjoy your new home.

Budgeting for your Adelaide move

Removalist fees in Adelaide will vary depending on the size of your home. Smaller apartments, like studios or 1-bedroom units, typically start at around $500 and can go up to $750. For a 2-bedroom unit, expect costs ranging from $550 to $1,250.

If you're moving to a larger home, the prices rise accordingly: a 3-bedroom house can cost between $850 and $1,350, while a 4-bedroom home could range from $1,250 to $2,450.

If you're selling, be sure to budget for things like marketing, agent fees, and legal costs. For those buying, consider additional expenses like property inspections and conveyancing.

Renters will need to factor in bond payments, upfront rent, and any costs associated with utility connections.

And, don't forget about packing supplies, insurance, and any extra services like cleaning or storage. While it may seem like a lot, with a little planning, you can manage these costs and avoid any surprises along the way.

For a full breakdown of moving costs in Adelaide here.

Professional Adelaide removalists vs. DIY pack up

Should you hire professional movers or take the DIY approach when moving in Adelaide? It’s a common dilemma, and both options have their pros and cons. Your decision will depend on your budget, timeline, and how much effort you’re willing to put in.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each approach.

Hiring professional Adelaide removalists

Pros

• Efficiency: Movers get the job done quickly and safely, saving you time and stress.
• Less work: They handle packing, logistics, and transport, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
• Insurance: Most offer insurance for peace of mind in case of damage.
• Expert handling: They’re skilled with fragile items, heavy furniture, and tight spaces.

Cons

• Cost: Professional movers can be expensive, especially for larger homes.
• Added expenses: Extra charges for stairs, long distances, or additional help can quickly add up.

Going the DIY route

Pros

• Save money: DIY moving is cheaper, especially if you don’t have much to move.
• Control: You can move everything at your own pace.

Cons

• Time and effort: Packing and moving can take a lot longer and is physically demanding.
• Risk of injury: Without experience, there’s a reasonable chance you could hurt yourself.
• Possible damage: Years of moving experience go into safely packing and transporting your things. Without professional help, you run a real risk of damaging your belongings.

If you’re leaning towards hiring movers, it's a good idea to compare quotes from different Adelaide removalists. Platforms like Upmove can help you easily find and book a trusted team.

Organising and decluttering

Now that you have your checklist and budget in hand, it’s time to focus on packing—and the first step is to declutter and get organised:

• Sort through each room and decide what to keep, donate, or sell.
• Get rid of anything broken, outdated, or no longer needed.
• Tackle paperwork—shred old documents and sort important files.
• Dispose of duplicate items (e.g., extra kitchen gadgets, duplicate clothes).
• Set aside anything that needs to be packed immediately, like essentials.
• Create a “donate” pile and schedule a drop-off or pick-up.
• Sell unwanted items online, host a garage sale, or take them to a local charity.
• Take inventory of valuable items and make sure they’re properly insured for the move.
• Avoid packing unnecessary items—only bring what you’ll use in your new home.

Packing materials and supplies

Getting the right packing materials can make your move in Adelaide much easier. Here's a list of what you'll need for a typical 3-bedroom home:

Boxes

What you’ll need:

• 15-20 small boxes (perfect for books, kitchenware, and small fragile items)
• 15-20 medium boxes (ideal for clothes, kitchen gadgets, and home décor)
• 5-10 large boxes (for bedding, blankets, and bulky items)
• 2-3 wardrobe boxes (for hanging clothes)

Where to find them: You can buy boxes at local stores like Bunnings, Officeworks, or Spotlight. For cheaper options, check out Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree for second-hand boxes. Many removalist companies in Adelaide also offer boxes, often with free delivery.

Packing Tape

What you’ll need: 6-8 rolls of strong packing tape (for sealing boxes securely)

Where to find them: You can pick up packing tape from Bunnings, Kmart, or Officeworks. Buying in bulk online can save you a little extra cash.

Bubble Wrap & Packing Paper

What you’ll need:

• 1-2 rolls of bubble wrap (to keep your breakables safe, like glassware and electronics)
• 2-3 packs of packing paper (to wrap fragile items and avoid scratches)

Where to find them: Available at stores like Officeworks, Bunnings, or local removalist suppliers. If you're looking for better deals, plenty of options are available online.

Moving Blankets or Furniture Pads

What you’ll need: 5-8 blankets or padded moving pads (for protecting your furniture during transport)

Where to find them: You can either rent moving blankets from your removalist or buy them from places like Bunnings or online retailers.

Plastic Storage Bins (Optional)

What you’ll need: 2-3 plastic bins (great for small items like toys, clothing, and miscellaneous goods)

Where to find them: Check out stores like The Reject Shop, IKEA, or Big W for affordable plastic bins. They’re a useful option for keeping your items organised as you move.

Packing up – Room by room guide for your Adelaide move

Packing can seem overwhelming, but breaking it down room by room makes it easier to manage. Start with areas you use less frequently, so you can gradually pack away things you won’t need until after the move, reducing stress as moving day gets closer.

Here’s a simple room-by-room guide to help you stay on track.

1. Garden / shed / storage areas

• Tools: Clear out any items you no longer need. Pack small tools in sturdy boxes and protect large items (like lawnmowers) with moving blankets or covers.
• Outdoor furniture: Disassemble larger pieces where possible and wrap them with moving blankets.
• Gardening gear: Pack fragile items (like glass planters) in strong boxes, and group smaller items like pots and tools together.

2. Guest bedrooms

• Bedding: Pack bedding into large boxes or clear plastic bins. Be sure to label them for easy unpacking.
• Furniture: Disassemble larger pieces of furniture and store screws and bolts in labelled plastic bags.

3. Office

• Documents: Sort through paperwork, recycling what you no longer need and securely shredding sensitive items. Keep important files in a file box.
• Electronics: Wrap up electronics like computers, printers, and monitors in bubble wrap and pack them in sturdy boxes (use original packaging if you still have it).
• Furniture: Disassemble desks, bookshelves, or any large pieces. Store smaller items in drawers or secure them in boxes.

4. Living / dining rooms

• Electronics: Use the original boxes for items like your TV, speakers, or sound systems, if you have them. Otherwise, wrap securely in blankets or padding.
• Furniture: Protect all furniture with moving blankets or padding. Disassemble large pieces if possible.
• Books & decor: Pack books in small boxes and wrap delicate items like art or vases in bubble wrap.
• Cushions & throws: Roll up soft items like cushions and throws into large boxes or bags.

5. Main bedrooms

• Clothes: Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes or cover them with plastic bags. Fold and pack the rest into boxes or suitcases.
• Bedding: Pack bedding into large boxes or bins and label them clearly.
• Furniture: Disassemble larger pieces and keep screws and bolts in separate, labelled bags.
• Personal items: Pack smaller items like electronics, books, and decor into boxes, ensuring fragile items are wrapped.

6. Bathrooms

• Declutter: Get rid of expired products or anything you no longer need.
• Toiletries: Pack toiletries in ziplock bags to prevent leaks.
• Fragile items: Wrap mirrors and other delicate items in bubble wrap to avoid damage during the move.

7. Kitchen

• Declutter: Go through your cupboards and toss out expired food or items you rarely use.
• Dishes & glassware: Wrap fragile items carefully in bubble wrap and pack them in small boxes. Use dividers for glasses to prevent chipping.
• Appliances: Wrap small appliances like blenders, toasters, or coffee machines in moving blankets or bubble wrap before packing them in larger boxes.
• Food: Use up perishable items before the move. If you're moving locally, pack leftover non-perishable food into boxes or bags.

Cleaning - How to ensure you get your rental bond back

To get your bond back in Adelaide, a thorough clean is essential.

Here’s a room-by-room checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything:

Start high, finish low: Begin by dusting ceilings, light fittings, and vents, then work your way down. This prevents dirt from falling onto areas you've already cleaned.

Living / dining areas: Dust all surfaces, including furniture, shelves, and light fixtures. Clean any marks off the walls, and vacuum carpets or clean hard floors. Mop the floors if needed. Don’t forget to empty bins and clean window sills and tracks.

Bedrooms: Dust furniture and wipe down walls for any marks. Clean windows, vacuum carpets, and mop if needed. Remove any rubbish from the room.

Kitchen: Clean the oven, stovetop, rangehood, and all surfaces, including countertops and cupboard doors. Don’t forget to clean the fridge inside and out. Wipe down the sink, and mop the floor, making sure to get under appliances.

Bathrooms: Scrub the shower, bath, toilet, sink, and mirrors. Wipe down tiles and other surfaces, remove mould or soap scum, and mop the floor. Empty bins and clean behind the toilet and sink.

Laundry: Wipe down all surfaces, including shelves and cupboards. Clean the laundry tub, and mop the floor. Remove lint from the dryer and ensure everything is tidy.

Floors and carpets: Vacuum all carpets thoroughly, especially in corners and along the edges. For hard floors, sweep and mop to remove any dirt or grime. If there are any stains, treat them before moving out.

Rubbish: Make sure all rubbish is cleared out of the house, including bins in every room and garden areas.

Lastly, do a quick walk-through to check everything is in order. It’s also a good idea to take a few photos for your own peace of mind.

Adelaide storage options - cost breakdown

Need somewhere to keep your things for a while? Storage units can be really handy. In Adelaide, prices typically range from $100 to $300 a month, and the cost depends on a few things like the size of the unit, where it’s located, and whether it’s on the ground floor (those tend to be a bit pricier).

When choosing a storage unit, think about how much stuff you’re storing now and if you might need extra space down the track. Storage can be a lifesaver for families, especially if you're clearing out the house for a move, renovating, or just need a bit of extra space while you get settled. It’s an easy and flexible solution for those in between homes.

Quick summary:

• Storage in Adelaide costs between $100 and $300 per month
• Costs depend on unit size, location, and floor level
• Pick the right size based on your current and future needs
• Great for families during moves, renovations, or decluttering

Preparing for special circumstances

Moving house can be a bit more complicated when you're juggling pets, kids, elderly relatives, or a disability, but with a little extra planning, it can be a smoother experience for everyone involved.

Moving with pets

If you’re moving with pets, consider arranging a quiet space for them on moving day, and keep them in a familiar spot away from the chaos—whether that’s a friend's place or a pet-sitting service.

Moving with kids

For kids, it helps to get them involved by letting them pack a special box of their favourite toys or books. You could even turn moving into a fun adventure with little rewards or treats along the way.

Moving with elderly relatives

Moving with elderly relatives requires a bit more consideration, especially with physical comfort and accessibility in mind. Make sure their new home is easy to navigate and that all their needs—like medications and mobility aids—are sorted before the move.

Moving with a disability

If you or someone you're moving with has a disability, consider seeking professional movers who specialise in accessible services, or make a list of any specific needs you may have, such as ramp access or a moving team familiar with handling sensitive equipment. Whatever the circumstance, the key is to stay organised and remember to take breaks, keeping the experience as stress-free as possible for everyone.

Finding the best Adelaide removalists

Moving to, from, or within Adelaide 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 Adelaide removalists.

Our platform simplifies the search for reliable movers, offering clear, upfront quotes so you know exactly what to expect.

Reliable removalists in Adelaide - book now.

Connect with trusted professional movers who are ready to do the heavy lifting with care.

9.7 · 1,589 reviews

Get Prices

$500

2 x Yamaha Organs piano

Palmerston, ACT

Googong, NSW

10

Rhonda

Reviewed 30 October, 2024

Highly recommend - great communication every step of the way!