Moving house or office soon? One of the most common questions people ask is: “How much do removalists really cost?” This complete guide will walk you through average pricing, what affects the cost, and how to save money — especially if you’re moving within Australia.
Whether you’re relocating a one-bedroom apartment or a large family home, having a clear idea of the costs can help you budget smartly and avoid last-minute surprises.
Want a quick estimate based on your exact needs? Try our moving cost calculator — it’s fast, easy, and gives you a ballpark quote in under a minute!
What Is a Removalist?
A removalist is a trained professional who helps with packing, loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings. From protecting fragile items to navigating tricky staircases, removalists are equipped with the tools and skills needed for a safe and efficient move.
They’re especially useful if you have heavy furniture, time-sensitive schedules, or simply want a hassle-free experience.
Average Removalist Costs in Australia
On average, removalists charge between $100 and $180 per hour. Most local moves using two men and a truck fall within $400 to $1,000 depending on the job’s size and complexity.
While prices vary, here’s a quick breakdown:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $350 – $600
- 2-bedroom home: $600 – $950
- 3-bedroom house: $950 – $1,500
- 4+ bedroom home: $1,500+
These are typical estimates for metro areas like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. For more accurate pricing, use our moving cost calculator to get an instant quote tailored to your move.
Factors That Affect Removalist Costs
Several things influence the final quote:
1. Distance of the Move
- Local moves are charged hourly.
- Long-distance moves (interstate or rural) are usually calculated based on volume and kilometres.
2. Volume of Items
The more items you have, the more time and effort the job requires. A minimalist apartment costs less to move than a fully furnished family home.
3. Access to Property
Stairs, narrow hallways, lack of parking, or no elevator access can increase labour time and cost.
4. Day and Time
- Weekends, public holidays, and end-of-month dates often come with higher rates due to peak demand.
5. Additional Services
Need help with packing, storage, or furniture disassembly? These services are super convenient, but they also add to the bill.
Tips to Save on Removalist Costs
Want to make your move budget-friendly? Try these:
- Book early to avoid last-minute surcharges.
- Declutter before your move — fewer items mean lower costs.
- Pack yourself using boxes and labels to cut down on hourly time.
- Compare multiple quotes and look for fixed-price deals.
- Ask about promotions or first-time customer discounts.
How to Choose the Right Removalist
Choosing the right company is just as important as price. Look for removalists who:
- Are ABN-registered and fully insured
- Have positive online reviews
- Offer transparent pricing with no hidden charges
- Have experience (ideally 3+ years)
- Provide written quotes and clearly outline their services
Trustworthy movers can make all the difference on moving day — less stress, more efficiency.
Is Hiring a Removalist Worth It?
Absolutely. While DIY moves can seem cheaper upfront, they often lead to:
- Damaged items
- Injuries from lifting heavy objects
- Unexpected vehicle or fuel costs
- Delays and stress
Hiring a professional removalist means peace of mind, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or moving valuable items.
Use Our Free Moving Cost Calculator
Want to skip the guesswork? Use Hafiza Movers’ free moving cost calculator to estimate your moving expenses in seconds. Just enter your move details — like pickup/drop-off locations, home size, and item count — and get a custom quote instantly.
It’s the easiest way to plan your move and avoid surprises.
Need Help Moving in Melbourne?
If you’re based in Melbourne and looking for trusted removalists, Hafiza Movers is here to help. We’re a family-owned company offering affordable, insured, and reliable moving services tailored to your needs.
Get your free quote today and discover why hundreds of Melbourne residents trust us to move their homes and businesses.
📞 Contact us at 0420 771 712 or email hafizamovers@gmail.com to get started.
