February 25, 2025
Relocating can be a stressful experience, and one of the most common questions people ask is, “How much will hiring removalists in Melbourne cost?”
While the final price depends on several factors, this guide will break down everything you need to know to plan your move effectively.
Let me reveal.
It’s not just about the hourly rates. There’s a whole science (and a bit of art) behind how removalist costs are calculated.
Yes, but only by preparing! Clear pathwayThe larger your property and the more furniture you have, the longer it will take to pack, load, and transport your belongings.
If you have a life-sized piano or a collection of rare antique vases, make sure you mention them upfront. Movers are skilled, but they aren’t magicians (well, most of them).
s, secure close parking, pack neatly in labeled boxes, and disassemble bulky furniture. Let removalists handle the heavy lifting while you set them up for a smooth move.
The distance between your current and new home plays a key role in determining costs. Moves within the Melbourne metro area are generally more affordable than interstate relocations.
If you’re moving a few suburbs away, it might not cost an arm and a leg, but moving across the state? Get ready for some digits on that quote!
If your home has stairs, narrow hallways, or lacks convenient parking for the truck, removalists may need extra time and manpower, which can increase costs.
Think about it—if your movers have to squeeze a couch through a staircase that looks like a scene from a suspense movie, it’s going to cost a little extra.
Peak seasons, such as weekends, end of the month, or holiday seasons, typically come with higher rates.
Want to save a few bucks? Consider moving mid-week or mid-month.
On average, removalists in Melbourne charge between $150 and $250 per hour for two movers and a truck. Here’s a breakdown:
Service | Average Hourly Rate (incl. GST) |
2 Movers + Truck | $150 – $180 |
3 Movers + Truck | $200 – $250 |
Many removalists charge a one-time travel fee, usually around $90 to $120, depending on your location.
A quick reality check: Even if you’re moving five minutes down the road, the truck and team still need to show up—and travel fees cover that.
These estimates include both hourly rates and travel fees.
Property Type | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost |
Studio/1 Bedroom | 2-4 hours | $450 – $810 |
2 Bedroom Apartment | 4-6 hours | $810 – $1170 |
3 Bedroom House | 5-8 hours | $1320 – $2040 |
4 Bedroom House | 7-10 hours | $1800 – $2520 |
When budgeting for your move, don’t overlook these potential additional expenses:
The key here is to ask upfront about any extra charges that might pop up so you’re not caught off guard.
Ah, the dreaded hidden fees! No one likes them, but they can creep into your bill if you’re not careful. Here are some common culprits:
Urgent bookings can sometimes cost extra, especially on weekends or peak moving days. Removalists often have tight schedules, and accommodating last-minute requests may require overtime or reshuffling of existing jobs, which can come with a premium price tag. To avoid this, try to book your move well in advance.
Some companies charge extra if movers have to navigate multiple flights of stairs or deal with slow elevators. This is because these scenarios require extra time, effort, and manpower. If your building has limited or challenging access points, it’s best to inform your removalist in advance to avoid surprise fees.
If movers have to carry items a long distance from your home to the truck, expect additional charges. This usually applies when there’s no nearby parking or if access to your property is limited. To avoid this, ensure there’s a clear and convenient loading zone for the truck.
Changed your plans at the last minute? Some removalists might still charge a percentage of the estimated cost as a cancellation fee. This covers their loss of potential business from other customers. Always check the company’s cancellation policy before booking.
If your move takes longer than the quoted time, you might be billed for overtime. Moving delays can occur for many reasons, including poor packing, lack of preparation, or unexpected obstacles. Being well-prepared and transparent with your removalist about the scope of the job can help avoid this.
The moral? Be upfront about every little detail.
Moving on weekdays or during non-peak seasons can be significantly cheaper. Most people prefer to move on weekends or public holidays, making those days more expensive. By choosing a weekday, you not only save money but also have more flexibility in booking your preferred time slot.
Many removalists offer discounts if you bundle services like packing, unpacking, and storage. Instead of hiring separate services, opt for an all-in-one package. Not only will this save you money, but it will also simplify the logistics of your move.
Some companies offer discounts for seniors, students, or repeat customers. Don’t be shy to ask! You’d be surprised how often companies are willing to offer special deals when asked directly.
Be upfront about your needs, property details, and special items. If you have fragile or oversized items, let your removalist know in advance. Surprises on moving day often result in additional costs, so clear communication can prevent unexpected fees.
Saving money during your move doesn’t mean compromising on quality. With a little preparation and smart planning, you can keep costs down without cutting corners. Here are some clever hacks:
The less stuff you have, the cheaper your move. Moving is the perfect time to get rid of unwanted items. Sell, donate, or dispose of things you no longer need. Fewer items mean fewer boxes, less labour, and reduced transportation costs.
Pack and label your boxes ahead of time. Professional packing services can add significant costs to your bill. If you’re organised and start early, you can pack your belongings yourself and save money. Just make sure to use sturdy boxes and proper packing materials.
Take apart beds, desks, and other furniture yourself. Removalists often charge extra for disassembling and reassembling furniture. Doing it yourself can save time and money.
Have a clear moving plan to minimise delays. Know what needs to be moved first and where each box should go in your new home. Label everything clearly and keep essential items easily accessible.
For smaller moves, rope in a few friends and rent a van. If you’re only moving a few items or relocating nearby, this can be a much cheaper alternative to hiring professional movers.
Early mornings, weekends, and public holidays are premium slots. Schedule your move during off-peak hours or mid-week for the best rates.
Look for free boxes at local stores, community groups, or recycling centres. Many businesses give away sturdy boxes for free. It’s an easy way to save money and reduce waste.
These small steps can add up to substantial savings.
Moving doesn’t have to be a horror story. With the right planning (and a bit of humour), you can turn a moving day into a smooth experience!
At Book a Move, we pride ourselves on offering transparent pricing, professional service, and tailored solutions to fit your moving needs. Whether you’re relocating a small apartment or an entire office, our experienced team ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Get your free quote today and discover why we’re Melbourne’s trusted choice for stress-free moves.
Source: Freepik
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Alice, an ace content strategist and writer with years of experience crafting compelling narratives across diverse industries, excels at turning complex topics into engaging, easy-to-understand content. Known for her knack for blending storytelling with strategic insight. Alice creates blogs, articles, and press releases that not only inform but also resonate with readers. Her dedication to understanding industry trends and audience needs ensures every piece he writes delivers value, clarity, and impact. Whether it’s simplifying gold trading insights, curating coffee shop strategies, or championing local businesses, Alice’s words leave a lasting impression.
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