Quick Cost Summary
- Local Move (2BR): $200-$600
- Local Move (4BR): $400-$1,200
- Interstate Move: $2,000-$8,000
- Hourly Rates: $120-$400 per hour
- Long Distance: $2.50-$4.50 per km
Removalist Pricing Structure in Australia
Removalist costs in Australia vary significantly based on distance, property size, services required, and timing. Understanding the different pricing models helps you budget effectively for your move.
Local Moving Rates (Same City/Region)
Local moves are typically charged by the hour, with minimum time requirements and crew sizes based on property size:
| Property Size | Crew Size | Hourly Rate | Typical Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Unit | 2 movers + truck | $120-$180/hour | $300-$600 |
| 2-Bedroom House | 2-3 movers + truck | $180-$260/hour | $500-$900 |
| 3-Bedroom House | 3 movers + truck | $240-$320/hour | $700-$1,200 |
| 4-Bedroom House | 3-4 movers + truck | $300-$400/hour | $900-$1,600 |
| 5+ Bedroom House | 4-5 movers + trucks | $400-$500/hour | $1,200-$2,400 |
Interstate Moving Costs
Interstate moves are typically priced based on distance, volume/weight, and service level required:
Interstate Moving Pricing Factors
- Distance: $2.50-$4.50 per kilometre
- Volume: $120-$200 per cubic metre
- Weight: $1.20-$2.50 per kilogram
- Fixed Routes: Set prices for popular city-to-city moves
- Service Level: Basic transport vs full-service packing
Regional Removalist Pricing Across Australia
Moving costs vary significantly across Australian cities due to labour rates, fuel costs, and market competition:
Sydney
- Local hourly: $150-$200/hour (2 movers)
- 3BR house: $800-$1,400
- Interstate: $3,500-$6,000
- Highest rates due to traffic/costs
Melbourne
- Local hourly: $140-$190/hour (2 movers)
- 3BR house: $700-$1,300
- Interstate: $3,200-$5,500
- Competitive market with options
Brisbane
- Local hourly: $120-$170/hour (2 movers)
- 3BR house: $600-$1,100
- Interstate: $2,800-$5,000
- Good value with quality service
Perth
- Local hourly: $130-$180/hour (2 movers)
- 3BR house: $650-$1,200
- Interstate: $3,800-$7,000
- Higher interstate due to distance
Adelaide
- Local hourly: $110-$160/hour (2 movers)
- 3BR house: $550-$1,000
- Interstate: $2,600-$4,800
- Most affordable major city rates
Regional Areas
- Local hourly: $120-$180/hour
- Travel fees: +$100-$300
- Limited removalist options
- May require city-based services
Popular Interstate Moving Routes and Costs
Common interstate moves have established pricing due to regular service routes:
Major Interstate Route Pricing (3-Bedroom House)
| Route | Distance (km) | Cost Range | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney to Melbourne | 880km | $3,500-$5,500 | 2-5 days |
| Melbourne to Brisbane | 1,670km | $4,200-$6,800 | 3-7 days |
| Sydney to Brisbane | 920km | $3,200-$5,200 | 2-5 days |
| Melbourne to Perth | 3,420km | $6,500-$10,000 | 7-14 days |
| Sydney to Perth | 3,290km | $6,200-$9,500 | 7-14 days |
| Brisbane to Perth | 4,310km | $7,500-$12,000 | 10-21 days |
Additional Removalist Services and Costs
Beyond basic transport, removalists offer various additional services to make your move easier:
Packing Services
Full Packing Service
- 2-bedroom unit: $800-$1,500
- 3-bedroom house: $1,200-$2,200
- 4-bedroom house: $1,600-$2,800
- Includes materials and labour
Partial Packing
- Kitchen only: $300-$600
- Fragile items: $200-$500
- Books/clothing: $150-$400
- Hourly rate: $50-$80/hour
Unpacking Services
- Full unpacking: $600-$1,200
- Kitchen setup: $200-$450
- Essential rooms: $300-$700
- Hourly rate: $45-$75/hour
Packing Materials
- Boxes (various sizes): $2-$15 each
- Bubble wrap: $25-$50/roll
- Packing paper: $15-$30/pack
- Tape/markers: $20-$40
Storage Services
- Short-term Storage: $150-$400 per month (per room equivalent)
- Long-term Storage: $120-$350 per month (volume discounts)
- Climate-Controlled: +20-40% premium for sensitive items
- Storage Insurance: $50-$150 per month (recommended)
- Access Fees: $50-$150 per visit to retrieve items
Specialty Item Handling
| Item Type | Additional Cost | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Piano | $300-$800 | Specialist piano movers |
| Pool Table | $400-$1,000 | Disassembly/reassembly required |
| Artwork/Antiques | $200-$600 | Custom crating and handling |
| Large Appliances | $150-$400 | Disconnection/reconnection needed |
| Hot Tub/Spa | $800-$2,000 | Crane hire and specialist team |
Factors Affecting Removalist Costs
Access and Property Factors
- Easy Access: Standard pricing applies
- Stairs (per floor): +$100-$300 additional labour
- Long Carries: +$150-$400 for distances over 50m from truck
- Lifts Required: Time delays may increase hourly costs
- Parking Issues: +$100-$300 if truck can't park nearby
- Narrow Access: +$200-$500 for difficult doorways/hallways
Timing and Seasonal Factors
Pricing by Season and Timing
Peak Times (Premium +15-30%)
- Summer months (Dec-Feb)
- School holidays
- End/start of month
- Weekends and public holidays
Off-Peak Times (Discounts Available)
- Winter months (Jun-Aug)
- Mid-month dates
- Tuesday-Thursday moves
- Term time periods
Insurance and Protection
- Basic Liability: Often included (limited coverage)
- Transit Insurance: $150-$500 for comprehensive coverage
- Full Replacement: $300-$800 for valuable item protection
- Third-Party Insurance: Available through insurance companies
Money-Saving Strategies for Moving
Timing Your Move Strategically
- Avoid Peak Periods: Save 15-30% by avoiding summer and month-end
- Weekday Moves: Tuesday-Thursday often 10-20% cheaper
- Off-Season Booking: Winter moves typically cost less
- Flexible Dates: Allow removalists to optimize their schedule
- Book in Advance: Last-minute bookings often attract premiums
Reduce Moving Volume
- Declutter Before Moving: Sell, donate, or discard unwanted items
- Use Original Boxes: Electronics boxes provide perfect fit and protection
- Pack Yourself: Save $800-$2,000 on full packing services
- Combine Loads: Share interstate trucks with other families
- Off-Load Heavy Items: Books and collections add significant weight
DIY Preparation Tasks
Tasks to Complete Before Movers Arrive
- Pack all non-fragile items yourself
- Disassemble furniture that you can handle safely
- Clear pathways and remove obstacles
- Arrange parking permits if needed
- Disconnect appliances (if confident and safe)
- Pack a survival kit for first day/night
Types of Moving Services
Full-Service Removalists
- Services Included: Packing, loading, transport, unloading, unpacking
- Cost Premium: 40-80% above basic transport
- Best For: Busy professionals, long-distance moves, valuable items
- Typical Cost: $2,000-$8,000 for 3-bedroom interstate move
Basic Transport Services
- Services Included: Loading, transport, unloading only
- Cost: Standard rates as quoted earlier
- Best For: Budget-conscious moves, local relocations
- Requirements: You handle all packing and preparation
Container/Self-Pack Services
- How it Works: Container delivered, you pack, they transport
- Cost: $2,500-$5,500 for interstate moves
- Time Frame: More flexible loading/unloading schedule
- Storage Option: Container can be stored at destination
Removalist Insurance and Liability
Understanding Coverage Options
| Insurance Type | Coverage Level | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Liability | $20-$100 per item | Usually included |
| Declared Value | Amount you declare | $8-$15 per $1,000 value |
| Full Replacement | Actual replacement cost | $15-$25 per $1,000 value |
| External Insurance | Comprehensive coverage | $200-$600 per move |
What to Document Before Moving
- Create detailed inventory with photos
- Note existing damage to furniture and items
- Record serial numbers of electronics
- Document valuable items with receipts
- Take photos of setup for complex electronics
Choosing the Right Removalist
Essential Qualifications and Credentials
- Licensing: Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA) membership
- Insurance: Comprehensive public liability and goods-in-transit
- Experience: Established track record in your type of move
- Equipment: Professional trucks, dollies, and moving equipment
- Staff Training: Trained, uniformed, and professional staff
Questions to Ask Potential Removalists
- Are you licensed and insured for interstate/local moves?
- Can you provide a detailed written quote?
- What is included in your quoted price?
- Do you offer insurance options and what do they cover?
- Can you provide recent customer references?
- What happens if there are delays or damages?
- Do you guarantee pickup and delivery dates?
- What payment methods do you accept?
Red Flags to Avoid
- Quotes significantly below market rates
- Door-to-door solicitation or high-pressure tactics
- Demands for large deposits upfront
- No physical address or ABN provided
- Cannot provide proof of insurance
- Unclear or vague written quotes
- Poor reviews or BBB complaints
Why Choose Mates Rates for Removalist Services?
0% Service Fees for Removalists
Unlike Airtasker's 10-20% fees, our moving companies keep 100% of their quoted rates, meaning better pricing for your local or interstate move.
Low 10% Fee Capped at $60
You'll only pay a 10% service fee capped at maximum $60, compared to Airtasker's uncapped fees that could add $200-$800+ to your moving bill.
Verified Moving Companies
All removalists are verified, licensed, and insured with experience in Australian local and interstate moving regulations and requirements.
Local Moving Expertise
Australian-owned platform connecting you with local moving companies who understand Australian routes, regulations, and residential moving challenges.
Moving Day Preparation Checklist
One Week Before Moving
- Confirm details with removalist company
- Arrange time off work for moving day
- Organize child/pet care for moving day
- Pack essentials box for immediate needs
- Arrange utility connections at new address
- Update address with banks, government agencies
Moving Day Essentials
Items to Keep With You
- Important documents (passports, birth certificates, contracts)
- Valuables and jewelry
- Prescription medications
- First-aid kit
- Change of clothes and toiletries
- Phone chargers and basic tools
- Snacks and drinks for the day
- Cash for tips and unexpected expenses
Post-Move Considerations
Immediate Priorities
- Inspect Inventory: Check all items arrived safely
- Document Any Damage: Take photos and notify removalist immediately
- Test Utilities: Ensure power, water, gas, internet working
- Locate Essentials: Find your survival box and immediate needs
- Change Locks: Priority for security at new property
First Week Tasks
- Register with local GP, dentist, vet
- Update voter registration
- Find local services (shops, schools, transport)
- Submit insurance claims if any damage occurred
- Leave reviews for your removalist company
Ready to Get Removalist Quotes?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do removalists cost in Australia?
Local moves cost $200-$1,200 depending on property size, while interstate moves range from $2,000-$8,000. Hourly rates are typically $120-$400 per hour including crew and truck.
When is the cheapest time to move in Australia?
Winter months (June-August), mid-month dates, and Tuesday-Thursday moves are typically 15-30% cheaper than peak summer, end-of-month, and weekend moves.
How far in advance should I book removalists?
Book 4-6 weeks in advance for local moves and 6-8 weeks for interstate moves. Peak summer periods may require 8-12 weeks advance booking.
What insurance do I need when moving?
Basic liability is usually included, but consider declared value ($8-$15 per $1,000) or full replacement ($15-$25 per $1,000) insurance for valuable items.
How can I reduce my moving costs?
Move during off-peak times, pack yourself, declutter before moving, book mid-month dates, and get multiple quotes to compare pricing and services.
How much can I save using Mates Rates instead of Airtasker?
With Airtasker's 10-20% uncapped fees, you could save $200-$1,600 on a $2,000-$8,000 interstate move by using Mates Rates' low 10% service fee capped at maximum $60.