How Much Does It Really Cost to Hire a Removalist in Australia?

In Australia, the average cost of moving house can range from $300 to $4,500, or more, depending on factors such as the size of your home, the distance to your new place, and the services you require. Typically, removalist rates range from $75 to $300 per hour, with quotes influenced by the size of the truck, the number of movers, and the complexity of the move.

Moving house can feel overwhelming, but with the right planning and a reliable removalist, it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re relocating across town or moving interstate, knowing what to expect in terms of costs can make all the difference. While DIY moves might seem like a budget-friendly option, hiring professionals can actually save you time, energy, and even money in the long run.

In this guide, we’ll break down the true cost of moving house in Australia and answer all your burning questions about removalist services. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Average moving costs for different house sizes (including 3-bedroom homes)

• How much removalists charge per hour and the factors that influence these costs

• A comprehensive moving checklist to keep you on track

• Smart moving tips to save time and reduce costs

• Hidden fees and extra costs you might not expect

• Answers to the most common moving house FAQs

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of what moving really costs and how to plan accordingly.

Want to find a removalist in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide?

Average Cost of Moving House in Australia

The cost of moving house in Australia can vary widely depending on the distance of the move, the size of your home, and how many movers are needed. Local moves are typically charged by the hour, while interstate relocations are usually priced as a flat rate based on volume and distance.

Local Moving Costs

For local moves, expect to pay between $110 and $200 per hour, depending on the size of the truck, the number of movers, and the complexity of the job. Here are some average cost estimates based on home size:

Interstate Moving Costs

Interstate moves are generally more expensive and depend heavily on the distance between locations and the volume of items. Below are ballpark figures to give you an idea of what to expect:

For the most accurate pricing, it’s always best to request a detailed quote from several removalist companies. This will help you compare services, check what’s included (e.g. packing, insurance, storage), and avoid hidden costs.

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Factors That Affect the Cost of Moving House

While your home’s size and the distance of the move are major cost indicators, several other factors can influence how much you’ll pay on moving day. Understanding these can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected fees.

1. Accessibility

If your property is difficult to access — for example, located in a high-rise building, on a steep driveway, or where the truck can’t park nearby — you may be charged extra. Additional fees (usually between $100 and $300) may apply if:

• There are multiple stairs or no lift access

• There’s a long distance between the truck and your front door

• Items need to be manoeuvred through tight or awkward spaces

2. Long-Distance or Interstate Moves

For interstate or regional relocations, costs rise due to:

• Increased fuel and travel time

• Potential overnight accommodation for the crew

• Tolls or permits

These jobs are usually quoted as a flat rate rather than hourly.

3. Heavy or Bulky Items

Specialty items that require extra care or equipment will increase your total cost. These include:

• Pianos, pool tables, or gym equipment

• Large appliances

• Fragile or antique furniture

• Items that may require a crane lift for upper-level access

4. Packing and Unpacking Services

If you’re short on time or prefer a hands-off approach, many removalists offer professional packing and unpacking services. Expect to pay:

• $80 to $120 per hour, including packing materials

• Costs may rise based on the number of packers needed or the complexity of the job

5. Call-Out Fees

Some companies charge a flat call-out fee to cover travel to and from your property, typically ranging from $50 to $100. Always confirm if this is included in your quote.

6. Timing of Your Move

• Weekends, public holidays, or end-of-month moves often come with higher rates

• Last-minute bookings can cost more due to limited availability

• Peak moving seasons, such as spring or early summer, may be more expensive due to higher demand

7. Storage Requirements

If you need to store your belongings before or after your move, you may face extra fees for:

• Short-term or long-term storage

• Extra handling/loading into storage units

To avoid bill shock, it’s always best to request a clear, itemised quote and ask what’s included in the base rate — from packing materials and fuel to insurance and travel time.

Need a self storage unit? Discover current prices, what affects costs, and how to choose the best option.

What’s Included in a House Move by Removalist Companies?

When you hire a home removalist service, the team is typically responsible for moving all your household belongings from your current property to your new one. This includes transporting boxes, furniture, and virtually any unfixed items you need relocated.

Depending on your home and what’s involved, this may cover:

• Beds and mattresses

• Tallboys, wardrobes, and shelving units

• Lounge suites and dining tables

• BBQs, trampolines, and outdoor furniture

• Whitegoods such as fridges and washing machines

• Toys, storage tubs, rugs and other miscellaneous items

Some removalist companies also offer specialist services, such as piano removals, which require extra care and equipment. Be sure to mention any bulky, fragile, or unusual items when requesting a quote, as they may affect your moving costs.

Minimum Charges and Booking Requirements

Even if you’re only moving a few items, most removalists charge a minimum of 2 hours to ensure the job is worthwhile for their team. Rates typically range between $110 to $200 per hour, depending on the size of the truck and number of movers required.

Moving House on a Budget? Consider Off-Peak Times

If you’re looking to save on removalist costs, try to schedule your move during mid-week or off-peak periods, when demand is lower. Many removalist companies offer cheaper hourly rates for flexible bookings, so if you’re not locked into a specific date or time, it’s worth asking about discounted options.

Want to find a removalist in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide?

Can I Use a Removalist to Move Furniture Into Storage?

Absolutely. If you’re between homes or simply need to clear out some space, most home removalist companies can help move your furniture and belongings into short or long-term storage.

This is a common scenario for people who are moving out but don’t yet have a new property lined up. In these cases, removalists can either:

• Store your items at their own storage facility (if available)

• Transport your goods to a trusted third-party storage provider they work with regularly

Many removalist services offer flexible storage options, from storing a single room’s worth of furniture to a full truckload. It’s a good idea to discuss your storage needs when arranging a quote so they can recommend the best setup for your situation.

If you’re not sure how long you’ll need storage, ask about month-to-month or flexible contracts, and whether access to your items can be arranged easily if needed.

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Packing Tips to Save Time and Cut Moving Costs

Want to save time and reduce your moving costs? One of the easiest ways is to dismantle furniture yourself before moving day. The more you do ahead of time, the less your removalist team will need to do — and since they charge by the hour, this can lead to real savings.

Disassemble beds, tables, and shelving where possible, and keep all screws, bolts, and hardware in clearly labelled bags taped to the item. This helps avoid any lost parts during the move.

Secure any loose items, like cords or detachable shelves, with tape or cable ties. For glassware and crockery, skip the newspaper and use butchers paper. It keeps everything clean and protected.

Finally, label every box with its contents and destination room. It’ll make unpacking at your new place faster and far less stressful.

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What Packing Materials Will You Need for Your Move?

To make your move smooth and efficient, having the right packing materials is essential. Here’s a list of items you’ll need to ensure your belongings are well-protected:

• Boxes of various sizes (small for heavy items, large for lighter ones)

• Packing tape to securely seal boxes

• Bubble wrap to protect fragile items like vases, picture frames, and glassware

• Butchers paper for wrapping delicate items like crockery

• Markers to label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in

It’s also important not to overpack boxes. Packing too much into one box can make it difficult to move and increase the risk of damage. Aim for lightly packed boxes to ensure your belongings stay safe during transit.

If you’re renting, don’t forget about a bond clean when you move out. Check with your removalist company to see if they have any reliable contacts for bond cleaning services to help you leave the property in pristine condition.

For a tailored moving plan and detailed quote, reach out to a local home removalist to get everything set for your move.

Want to find a removalist in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide?

Your Moving House Checklist: What to Do Before, During and After Moving Day

Staying organised is key when you’re shifting house. From booking a removalist to setting up your utilities, there’s a lot to juggle, but having a plan makes all the difference. Use this step-by-step moving house checklist to keep your move on track and stress-free.

4–6 Weeks Before the Move

• Start decluttering — sell, donate or dispose of items you don’t want to take

• Research and book a reliable removalist company

• Arrange time off work if needed

• Begin collecting packing materials: boxes, tape, labels, bubble wrap

• Notify schools, daycare, or other services of your move

• Organise pet transport or boarding, if required

2–3 Weeks Before the Move

• Start packing non-essential items

• Label boxes by room and contents

• Arrange for utility disconnections and reconnections (electricity, gas, internet)

• Update your address with banks, insurance, and subscriptions

• Organise contents and moving insurance if needed

1 Week Before

• Finalise packing (leave out essentials for a first-night box)

• Confirm booking with your removalist

• Redirect your mail via Australia Post

• Clean out the fridge and freezer

• Notify neighbours or building management of your moving date

Moving Day

• Pack your first-night essentials box (toiletries, linen, chargers, snacks)

• Supervise the movers and provide clear instructions

• Do a final walk-through of your old home

• Take meter readings for water, gas, and electricity

• Lock up and hand over keys if required

After the Move

• Unpack the essentials and clean as you go

• Set up major appliances and check for any damage

• Reconnect utilities and internet

• Update your electoral roll and driver’s licence details

• Leave a review for your removalist company

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How to Choose the Right Removalist and Understand Costs

When selecting a removalist, it’s crucial to look for a company with experience, positive reviews, and appropriate insurance coverage to protect your belongings during transit. Be sure to confirm that the company offers goods-in-transit insurance or transit insurance to cover any potential damage or loss. Also, ask about their policies on minimum charges or hidden fees, as many companies require a minimum of two hours of service, even for smaller moves.

Once you’ve selected a few potential removalists, request a detailed, itemised quote. Ensure that the quote covers all aspects of your move, from packing and transport to storage options if needed. If you’re moving specialty items like pianos, ask about additional services and specialist handling.

To ensure you’re getting the best deal, compare quotes from multiple companies. You can use platforms like Yellow Pages to find removalists in your area and quickly gather estimates. This comparison will help you choose the right company while keeping costs transparent and competitive.

Want to find a removalist in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide?

*All costs quoted were sourced at the time this cost guide was written and should only be used as an estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cost of Moving House in Australia