May 13, 2025
One thing that often makes the whole moving experience a lot more stressful than it needs to be: unclear removalist pricing.
Ever asked for a quote and thought: “Wait, why is this SO different from what I expected?”
You’re not alone.
Whether you’re looking for removalists in Melbourne, Sydney, or anywhere else, understanding how pricing works can save you a lot of stress and money.
Today, we’re peeling back the curtain and making sense of it all — hourly rates, fixed prices, hidden costs, and how to spot a great deal when you see one.
Let’s dive in (and save you from nasty surprises on moving day).
Hourly rates are exactly what they sound like — you pay based on how many hours the movers spend getting your stuff from Point A to Point B.
Typically includes:
Pros:
Cons:
If you’re paying by the hour, be super organised. Have boxes packed, furniture ready to go, and easy access for the movers.
With a fixed price, you agree on a total cost upfront based on what needs to be moved, distance, and complexity.
Typically covers:
The Good:
The Not-So-Good:
Be thorough during the quoting process. Mention everything — even the giant pot plants on your balcony. Surprises on moving day can mean extra fees.
It honestly depends on:
If in doubt, always ask for both options and compare!
Now here’s the part many people miss — additional fees.
Even with a quote, these costs can sneak up if you’re not careful:
Charge Type | What It Means | How to Avoid It |
Stairs or Difficult Access Fees | Moving from a 4th-floor walk-up? Expect a fee. | Be upfront about property access. |
Heavy Item Surcharge | Pianos, pool tables, safes have extra charges, | Mention any heavy items during quoting. |
Waiting Time | If you’re not ready when movers arrive, they might charge. | Be fully packed before they show up. |
Packing Materials | Boxes, bubble wrap, mattress covers often cost extra. | Provide your own or check if they’re included. |
Travel Fees | If you’re far from their base, a travel charge may apply. | Book a company close to your location. |
After-Hours Fees | Moving late at night or on holidays? Sometimes extra. | Schedule moves during regular hours if possible. |
Always ask for a comprehensive quote breakdown before you book. No shame in getting specific!
Still not sure which pricing model to choose? Let’s make it simple:
Your Situation | Best Option |
Small apartment move within city | Hourly Rate |
Big house move across suburbs | Fixed Price |
You’re super organised and efficient | Hourly Rate |
You need someone to pack, move, and maybe even store | Fixed Price |
You have unpredictable move conditions | Fixed Price |
At Book A Move, we believe moving should be exciting — not expensive or confusing.
That’s why:
No hidden fees. No vague quotes. Ever.
Moving already feels like juggling a hundred balls in the air — pricing shouldn’t be another confusing one.
Now that you understand how hourly rates, fixed prices, and extra charges work, you’re ready to book smarter, move faster, and maybe even enjoy the process (wild, right?).
Need help getting the best moving deal?
Book A Move makes it ridiculously easy. Compare, choose, and move — all in just a few clicks.
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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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