With the rising cost of living and increased housing market pressures, talks of affordability have been front and centre for many Australians looking to relocate.
In this article we're providing a rundown of what you can expect to pay for a local or interstate move, plus a handy cost calculator to get an idea of what you would pay to move based on your furniture and belongings.
The average cost to move home in Australia for a 2-bed unit is $1,758 and for a 3-bed house is $2,212. However, this greatly depends on how much furniture and belongings you're moving, and the distance of the relocation.
| City | Average cost |
| Melbourne | $470 - $850 |
| Adelaide | $550 - $1,250 |
| Brisbane | $585 - $850 |
| Sydney | $840 - $1,350 |
| Perth | $360 - $960 |
| Canberra | $480 - $960 |
| City | Average cost |
| Melbourne | $710 - $1,910 |
| Adelaide | $850 - $1,350 |
| Brisbane | $924 - $1,230 |
| Sydney | $1,150 - $1,520 |
| Perth | $775 - $2,500 |
| Canberra | $720 - $1,280 |
Renters should also factor in the cost of a bond at their new property. Here's what you need to know about rental bonds and how they work in Australia.
Using the calculator below, add your furniture items and the estimated number of moving boxes to see how much truck space you require. You can use this info to get accurate quotes from moving companies.
| Property | Approx. cubic meters |
| Studio/ 1-bed unit | 25 cubic meters |
| 2-bed unit | 25 to 30 cubic meters |
| 3-bed unit | 35 to 40 cubic meters |
| 3-bed house | 35 to 45 cubic meters |
| 4-bed house | 50 to 60 cubic meters |
| 5+bed house | 65+ cubic meters |
If you're planning a move, there are two factors that have the most influence on cost, these are:
The likelihood is you've got your sights set on a new home already, or at least the area you're looking to move to, so the distance of your relocation is not something you can influence.
Removalists typically charge hourly rates, so the longer the distance, the higher the cost. Moving companies may add charges for road tolls, fuel, and possibly overnight stays for longer distances or interstate moves.
The second factor is the amount of furniture and belongings you need to relocate.
For a small local move, you may be able to rope in friends and family, hire a van, and take a DIY approach. However, a word of warning. Many people who opt for the DIY route underestimate how much work is involved and, on reflection, think, 'We should have just hired a moving company'.
For DIY moves, it’s worth checking these safe lifting tips from Safe Work Australia to avoid injury.
Hiring a moving company will save you significant time and effort and make your move much smoother and more enjoyable. To understand the full scope of services offered, here’s an overview of what removalists actually do and how they can assist in your move.
Generally speaking, the more stuff you have, the more it will cost you. Moving companies offer packing, loading, transportation, and unloading services. For larger or more complex moves, especially when moving valuable or delicate items, professional movers ensure that your belongings are handled with care and expertise.
One tip to help you save on cubit meters, and the cost of moving. Declutter before you move, not after. Here is our guide for items to toss before the move.
Many removalist companies now offer a variety of additional services, listed below. Check with your chosen company to see what is included and what may incur additional costs.
See what help you might need with our complete moving home checklist.
To ensure you’re getting the best price, use Upmove to find vetted removalists across Australia. You’ll receive multiple quotes from verified and reliable moving services in one request. When you’re ready, book trusted furniture removalists through Upmove to ensure a smooth and efficient move.
Upmove helps Aussies find and book removalists and transport services across Australia. The easy-to-use platform allows customers to access reliable, cost-effective, and user-reviewed service providers in just a few clicks. Founded back in 2017, our focus has always been on making moving as simple and effortless as possible for both customers and the professionals they rely on.
It's free and easy to create a request on Upmove.
Describe, add photos and the dimensions of your shipment in your listing — anything that you think will make a difference, will make a difference.
Our platform will reach out to moving companies relevant to your delivery specification in your area.
Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
Compare prices and get to know movers before accepting their quote by reading previous customer feedback on our platform.
Pick your preferred moving company and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen moving company on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your moving company takes care of your booking.
Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
