Budget-friendly removalists in Sydney - 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 house in Sydney, whether you're a long-time local or new resident, can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. Sydney offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and plenty of opportunities, but it also comes with its challenges—think traffic, limited parking, and unpredictable weather.

In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the entire process, from planning and budgeting to choosing the right removalists, packing tips, and settling in. Whether you're in the heart of the city or headed to a quieter suburb, we’ve got practical advice and a clear timeline to make your move as smooth as possible.

Let’s get started and set you up for a stress-free transition.

• Introduction to moving house in Sydney
• Overview of the moving process
• Moving in Sydney - what to keep in mind
• Sydney moving house checklist
• Budgeting for your Sydney move
• Packing - hiring movers vs. DIY moving
• Organising and decluttering
• Packing materials and supplies
• Packing up - room by room guide
• Cleaning - How to ensure you get your rental bond back
• Understanding storage needs and costs
• Preparing for special circumstances
• Choosing trustworthy Sydney removalists

Introduction to moving house in Sydney

Let’s face it, moving is never as simple as it seems - even when you're only moving a short number of kilometres within the same major city.

First, there’s the emotional challenge of leaving behind your old home. Then there’s the logistics of coordinating all the aspects of your move, not to mention the financial stress of managing costs.

Navigating Sydney's busy streets and finding the right place in hot suburbs is no joke. Rental properties are always in high demand - particularly in sought-after areas - and as Australia’s most expensive city, you’ll need to plan a clear budget.

Overview of the moving process

Moving in Sydney involves several key steps, each with its own challenges specific to the city:

First, you'll need to plan your move 8-10 weeks in advance, including setting a budget, hiring local Sydney removalists, and sorting out logistics.

Packing will be your next priority. Be strategic, especially if you're in an apartment or terrace house where space is tight.

Finally, once you’ve unpacked and settled in, remember to handle legal tasks like updating your address and utilities.

Don’t worry we’re going into more detail on all of these steps later in the article.

Moving in Sydney - what to keep in mind

Life in Sydney can be exciting, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make your move as smooth as possible.

First, housing in Sydney is pricey. Whether you're moving a few streets over or to the other side of town, you can expect higher rent or property prices. Do your research on different suburbs—whether you want to live by the beach in Bondi or closer to the city in the Inner West. Rental competition is fierce, so start early.

When it comes to transport, Sydney’s public transport system covers most areas and is especially helpful if you are planning a move closer to the city. If you haven’t already, get yourself an Opal card for easy hop on, hop off service.

Weather-wise, Sydney has hot summers (over 30°C) and mild winters, but it’s also prone to sudden rain, so plan your move around the weather.

Finally, make sure you’re familiar with the legal and administrative tasks that come with a Sydney move. You’ll need to change your address with the post office, update your driver’s license, and arrange for utility services like gas, electricity, and internet.

Sydney moving house checklist

Moving in Sydney involves numerous tasks, and staying organised is key to managing the process without unnecessary stress. Below are a set of comprehensive checklists to guide you through each phase of your move, tailored specifically to Sydney.

10+ weeks before the move

• Research Sydney suburbs: Decide where you'll live based on commute times, amenities, and rental or purchase costs.
• Set your moving budget: Estimate costs for movers, packing materials, utilities, and any additional fees (e.g. permits).
• Book your moving company: Research Sydney removalists companies, get quotes, and secure a booking.
• Organise your storage needs: If you need temporary storage, look for Sydney-based facilities that can accommodate your needs.
• Declutter your home.
• Create a packing plan.
• Inform your landlord/agent and arrange final inspection (if renting).

6+ weeks before the move

• Start packing non-essential items.
• Order packing materials.
• Notify utilities of your move.
• Schedule connections at your new home.
• Change your address: Australia Post, banks, insurance companies, subscriptions, and any other services you use.
• Start organising special items: Consider how you’ll transport fragile, valuable, or large items (e.g., artwork, furniture, appliances).
• Apply for parking permits: If moving into or out of an apartment in Sydney, check with your building manager or local council about restrictions.

4+ weeks before the move

• Confirm removalists details, double check if they need any more detail.
• Confirm utility transfers.
• Arrange for cleaning services - especially if you are leaving a rental and are waiting for a bond return.
• Prepare for special circumstances: If moving with pets or children, make arrangements for their care during the move.
• Prepare your new home: If possible, visit your new home to check for any required repairs, and clean or refresh the space.

2+ weeks before the move

• Continue packing -Tackle room-by-room, labeling boxes as you go.
• Prepare an essentials box with things you’ll need immediately after moving (e.g., toiletries, medications, charger, snacks).
• Notify Sydney’s local authorities: update your driver’s license, car registration, and electoral roll details.

1+ week before the move

• Confirm moving day details: Double-check the time with your removalists and make sure you have keys to your new place.
• Clean your old home.
• Pack up remaining items ensuring that the last things packed are the first things you’ll need.
• Make travel arrangements: If moving interstate, confirm flights, car hire, or travel details for you and your family.
• Prepare pet/childcare: Arrange for a sitter or care for pets and children on moving day if possible to minimise stress.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Pack a small bag with essential documents, toiletries, food, and items like phone chargers for moving day.

Moving day

• Put cones or empty plant pots out to save a space outside your house or apartment if you don’t have off street parking.
• Your Sydney removalists will arrive to load and transport your furniture and belongings.
• Final walkthrough of your old property to ensure nothing is left behind, and check if any damage needs reporting.
• Check utility setup: Make sure utilities are running at your new place (electricity, gas, water, internet).
• Unpack essentials first: Unpack your essentials box, and set up the kitchen, bathroom, and bedrooms first.

Settling in

• Unpack and organise: Start unpacking one room at a time, focusing on the kitchen and bedrooms first for ease of settling in.
• Take inventory of delivered items: Ensure all boxes and furniture have been delivered to the correct location.
• Confirm internet, water, gas, and electricity services are active.
• Explore your new neighbourhood.

Budgeting for your Sydney move

Sydney removalists costs

Moving in Sydney comes with a range of expenses, whether you’re selling, buying, renting, or staying local. For local removalists, costs vary by home size, from $390 for a studio to $2,450 for a 4-bedroom house. Sellers face fees from marketing to legal costs, while buyers will need budget for property inspections and possibly even conveyancing. Renters, on the other hand, will have bond and upfront rent to consider. Then there are extras like utility connections and packing supplies. Yes, it's a lot, but careful planning helps to keep everything on track. Check out our guide to Sydney moving costs for more details.

Hiring removalists vs. DIY moving - weighing up what’s best

Should you hire professional movers or tackle it yourself? It’s a big question and each option has its upsides and downsides, so it really comes down to your budget, timeline, and how much you’re willing to do yourself. To help you decide what’s best for you, we’ve prepared a list of pros and cons for each.

Hiring professional movers

Pros:

• Efficient and fast: Movers are pros at what they do. They know how to get the job done quickly, safely, and with minimal stress for you.
• Less work for you: They handle everything from packing up your things to getting them safely into your new home. No need to worry about organising a truck, packing materials, or finding helpers.
• Insurance: Many Sydney removalists offer insurance, so if anything breaks during the move, you're covered.
• Expert handling: Movers are experienced at packing fragile items, heavy furniture, and navigating tricky spaces, so you can relax knowing your belongings are in good hands.

Cons:

• Cost: Moving house can be expensive and Sydney removalists do come at a cost.
• Surprise costs: If you aren’t properly prepared, things like stairs, long travel distances, or needing extra hands can add to the final bill.

Going the DIY Route

Pros:

• Save money: DIY moving is definitely the cheaper option, especially if you don’t have a lot of furniture or if you’re on a tight budget.
• Total control: You can pack and move everything exactly how you want, on your own time.

Cons:

• Time and effort: Doing it yourself can take a lot longer, especially if you don’t have a crew of people to help.
• It’s physical: Lifting heavy furniture and boxes can get exhausting, not to mention the risk of hurting yourself if you’re not careful.
• Risk of damage: If you’re not experienced with moving, there’s a higher chance of damaging your things or your property.

If you’re leaning toward hiring movers, it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes. This is where platforms like Upmove come in handy. You can easily compare multiple quotes and book Sydney removalists.

Organising and decluttering

Now that you have your checklist, budget and have decided on whether you will hire professional removalists Sydney or DIY, it’s time to get organising your belongings, decluttering and packing up your items. Here are some actionable steps to help you get started:

1. Create a packing schedule
2. ​​Set aside items for packing
3. ​​Get rid of duplicate items
4. Tackle paperwork
5. Sell or donate unwanted items
6. Packing materials and supplies

Packing is a huge part of moving, and having the right materials makes everything so much easier. Here’s a list of the packing essentials (and non essentials) for an average 3-bedroom house move.

Essential Packing Materials

1. Boxes

What you need:

• 15–20 small boxes (for books, kitchen items, and fragile things)
• 15–20 medium boxes (for clothes, kitchenware, and decor)
• 5–10 large boxes (for things like blankets, pillows, or bedding)
• 2–3 wardrobe boxes (for hanging clothes)

Where to get them: Sydney removalists often sell or rent boxes. You can also find them at places like Officeworks, Bunnings, or even second-hand from Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree.Check out our guide on 9 places to get free moving boxes in your area.

2. Packing tape

What you need: 6–8 rolls of packing tape (to seal your boxes).

Where to get it: Available at Bunnings, Officeworks, or local big-box retailers. Buying in bulk online can save you a bit.

3. Bubble wrap & packing paper

What you need:

• 1–2 large rolls of bubble wrap (for fragile stuff like glassware or electronics).
• 2–3 packs of packing paper (for wrapping up breakables).

Where to get it: You can pick this up at stores like Bunnings, Officeworks, or local removalist suppliers, or grab it online.

4. Furniture pads/blankets

What you need: 5–8 furniture pads or moving blankets (to protect your big furniture or appliances).

Where to get them: These are often available to rent from furniture removalists, but you can also buy them at Bunnings or online.

5. Plastic Bins (Optional)

What you need: 2–3 plastic bins (for things like clothing or toys).

Where to get them: Check out stores like IKEA, Bunnings, or Big W for affordable plastic bins.

Packing guide - room by room breakdown

With all your packing materials ready, it's time to dive in and pack up your home.

Packing up your home for a move requires a strategic approach to ensure everything gets done in an organised and efficient manner.

The best place to start is with the least-used rooms, as these are the areas where you can pack up items without disrupting your daily routine. Begin with rooms like guest bedrooms, storage spaces, and shed—these often hold items you won’t need ahead of moving day.

Next, tackle the office, living room and dining room, which often hold a lot of decor, trinkets, books, or electronics that aren’t used daily.

As you move closer to moving day, focus on the bedrooms and kitchen.

Packing each room up can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’ve broken it down room by room in packing order to make it easier. Let’s get started.

1. Garden / Shed / Storage areas

• Tools: Sort through your tools and donate or sell anything you don’t use. Pack small tools in boxes and larger tools (like lawnmowers) in protective covers or blankets.
• Outdoor furniture: Disassemble outdoor furniture when possible and wrap in moving blankets. Pack cushions in large boxes.
• Gardening supplies: Pack pots, plants, and soil in sturdy boxes, and protect breakables (like glass planters) with bubble wrap.
• Storage items: Store items such as towels, linen, blankets, and seasonal clothes as compactly as possible in appropriately marked boxes so that they can be easily transferred to new storage spaces on arrival to your new home.

2. Guest bedrooms

• Bedding: Pack bedding into large boxes or plastic bins. Don't forget to label the box with the room it goes to.
• Furniture: Disassemble larger furniture if possible (beds, dressers, etc.) and keep all screws and bolts in a labelled ziplock bag.

3. Office

• Documents & supplies: Sort through files and discard anything you don’t need. Pack important documents in a file box or a folder. Store office supplies (pens, paper, etc.) in small boxes.
• Electronics: For computers and monitors, wrap each item in bubble wrap and pack them in original boxes or secure them in sturdy, well-padded boxes.
• Furniture: If possible, disassemble office furniture (like desks or bookshelves) and pack small items in the drawers to save space.

4. Living / Dining rooms

• Electronics: If possible, use the original boxes for TVs or speakers. If you don’t have them, wrap electronics in bubble wrap and pack them securely in boxes.
• Furniture: Disassemble furniture like tables and chairs where possible. Use furniture pads or blankets for protection.
• Books and decor: Pack books into smaller boxes (they get heavy) and wrap fragile decor with bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Cushions and throws: Roll up cushions and throws and pack them in large boxes or plastic bags.

5. Main bedrooms

• Clothes: For hanging clothes, use wardrobe boxes or just move them on hangers with a plastic bag over them. Fold other clothes into boxes or suitcases.
• Bedding: Pack bedding into large boxes or plastic bins. Don't forget to label the box with the room it goes to.
• Furniture: Disassemble larger furniture if possible (beds, dressers, etc.) and keep all screws and bolts in a labelled ziplock bag.
• Personal items: Pack away personal items like books, electronics, and decorations. Use smaller boxes for delicate items.

6. Bathrooms

• Declutter: Get rid of old products you don’t need, like empty bottles or expired items.
• Pack toiletries: Group toiletries together in ziplock bags to avoid spills. Wrap fragile items like mirrors or medicine cabinets in bubble wrap.
• Towels and linens: Roll up towels and pack them into medium boxes or use them as padding around other items.
• Keep items that you use daily to one side and box separately for easy access on arrival at your new home.

7. Kitchen

• Sort and declutter: Start by going through your cupboards and getting rid of anything you no longer need.
• Pack dishes, glasses and utensils: Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper. Use small boxes for dishes and stack them securely. For glasses, use a box with dividers or wrap each piece individually.
• Appliances: Wrap appliances like toasters, blenders, or microwaves in moving blankets or bubble wrap. Pack them in larger boxes.
• Food: If you’re moving locally, pack your pantry items in small boxes. For long-distance moves, it’s best to finish using up food before your move.

Cleaning - How to ensure you get your rental bond back

Once all of your personal belongings are packed it’s the perfect time to do a deep clean on the home you are leaving. This is especially true if you have been renting and will be seeking a bond return from your landlord.

Follow our simple cleaning steps to give yourself the best possible shot at accessing the entirety of your bond deposit when you leave.

• Start high, finish low: Begin with dusting ceilings, light fixtures, and vents before moving to surfaces like walls and windows. This will help catch any dust or debris that falls as you clean.
• Clean the kitchen thoroughly: Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, cabinets, and appliances. Don’t forget the oven, range hood, and behind the fridge—these spots are often overlooked but make a big difference.
• Tidy up the bathroom: Scrub tiles, grout, mirrors, and sinks. Pay attention to the toilet and shower to ensure there’s no mould or grime left behind.
• Vacuum and mop floors: Make sure to clean under furniture, in corners, and along skirting boards.
• Check the carpets: If the carpets are stained, it might be worth hiring a professional cleaner to get them looking spotless.
• Dispose of any rubbish: Remove all trash from the home, including any old items left behind in the garage or storage areas.

Lastly, take time to inspect the property and do a final walk-through. Make sure everything is in tip-top shape, and consider snapping a few photos as evidence of the condition you’re leaving it in. A little extra effort now can save you money later.

Understanding storage needs and costs

When you're moving in or out of Sydney, whether it's locally or interstate, you might find that you need to store your packed items in between homes. Maybe you're waiting for your new place to be ready, or you simply have more stuff than your new place can handle. Either way, storage can be a lifesaver.

Storage costs in Sydney can vary quite a bit depending on where you're located and what size space you need. For smaller storage units (think the size of a big closet or garage), you’re usually looking at around $100 to $300 per month. If you need something bigger—like a unit that can hold all your furniture—you’ll pay more.

Some places also offer mobile storage units, which are delivered to your door, and then they pick them up and store them for you—super convenient and often more affordable than traditional units.

If you’re thinking about long-term storage, some companies offer discounts if you commit for several months, while others might charge a bit extra if you're storing items in prime locations (like closer to the city).

TIP: When it comes to storage, don’t forget about insurance—most storage places will give you basic coverage, but if you're storing valuable items, it’s worth looking into additional protection.

To save a bit of cash, you might want to consider storage facilities that are a little further from the city center—prices tend to drop the farther out you go.

Also, if you’re moving during a busy time, like at the end of the month or around holidays, storage spots can fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.

Quick breakdown:

• Small units: Around $100–$300 per month.
• Bigger units: Expect higher rates.
• Mobile storage: Often cheaper and super convenient.
• Insurance: Definitely worth considering for added peace of mind.

Preparing for special circumstances

Once you’ve gotten to the stage of your move where your home is packed and your checklist almost entirely checked off, it’s time to head to your next location (whether it’s in Sydney, broader NSW or interstate).

Sometimes this part of the move can be the most stressful - particularly if you’re travelling with pets, children or elderly relatives.

To support you in this transition we’ve created some things to consider and ways to ease the stress.

Moving with pets

Pets can be sensitive to change, and a long journey can be stressful for them. Make sure you have everything they need, like food, water, and their favourite toys, to keep them comfortable during the trip. If you're travelling longer distances, a pet transportation service may be the best way to keep your pet calm and safe on the road.

Moving with children

For kids, moving is an emotional rollercoaster. They might be excited about the new adventure, but they can also feel anxious about leaving behind friends or their familiar environment. To make the transition easier, involve them in the process—let them help with packing their own things and explain what to expect in the new home. During the actual move, try to keep their routine as normal as possible, and bring along comfort items like their favourite blanket or stuffed animal.

Moving with elderly relatives

Moving with elderly relatives can require a bit more preparation. Make sure they’re comfortable throughout the transition, especially if they have mobility issues or medical needs. Arrange for their medications and important items to be packed separately and within easy reach, and plan for transportation that’s accessible for them. It might also help to have someone accompany them during the move to offer support and ensure their needs are met along the way.

Moving with a disability

Moving with a disability may call for a little extra planning to ensure a smooth and stress-free move. It's a good idea to arrange for medications and important items to be packed separately and within easy reach, and plan for accessible transportation.

Ahead of the move it’s also important to double check the new property meets any accessibility needs - things like ramps, wide doorways or step-free entrances. Having a list of new local support services to hand can also offer a sense of calm - knowing that help with everything from medical care to community resources will be just a call away.

Choosing trustworthy Sydney removalists

Moving to, from, or within Sydney can be an exciting yet complex process, with many steps involved. 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.

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.

Budget-friendly removalists in Sydney - book now

Reliable and experienced moving companies ready to help with your relocation.

9.7 · 1,503 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!