Hiring a removalist in Australia can be a significant part of your moving budget. Costs vary depending on several factors, including location, time of year, and the distance of your move.
On average, removalists in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne charge between $100 to $200 per hour for a team of two movers and a truck. For a full move, including packing and unpacking services, expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the size of your home.
To ensure you get the best deal with less hassle, you can find and compare removalist quotes on platforms like Upmove. But here are more factors to consider that will help you save money.
Factors Affecting Removalist Costs:
- Distance: The further you move, the more it costs. Moves within the same city are cheaper compared to interstate relocations.
- Size of Your Home: A larger home means more furniture and boxes, which take longer to move. For instance, moving a one-bedroom apartment could cost around $300–600, whereas a four-bedroom house may reach $2,000 or more.
- Time of Year: Costs can spike during peak moving periods such as summer or around the end of a financial year, due to higher demand for services.
- Additional Services: Extras like packing materials, disassembly/reassembly of furniture, and specialised handling of fragile or valuable items can add to your final bill.
Average Costs for Different Types of Moves:
- Local Moves: Typically charged by the hour. For short-distance moves within a city, expect to pay $100–150 per hour for two men and a truck.
- Interstate Moves: These are usually priced based on the volume of furniture and the distance travelled. For example, moving from Sydney to Brisbane might cost $3,000–6,000, depending on the size of your move.
- International Moves: Costs depend on the destination and volume. Expect prices upwards of $10,000 for a full household move overseas.
Tips for Reducing Costs:
- Declutter before moving: Reducing the amount of furniture and belongings can lower your removal costs.
- Book early: Last-minute bookings can be more expensive, especially during peak times. “Planning your move ahead can save you both time and money.
- Self-pack: If you have the time, packing your items yourself can save on labour costs, though you might need to buy your own packing materials.
When planning your move, it’s always a good idea to request multiple quotes from different removalists and compare services. Check for removalist insurance options and any hidden fees in the contracts.
By understanding the factors that affect removalist costs, you can better budget for your move and avoid any surprises on moving day. There’s no need to fork out a fortune if you’re clever about it!