Whether you’re moving across the street or across the country, costs add up quick. Local moves range from $800 to $1,800 depending on the time of year, size of your home and how far you’re going. Interstate moves are even more expensive, $3,500 to $7,000 or more.
Seasonal changes affect pricing too. Removalists charge more in summer due to higher demand. Winter is cheaper. For example, moving a 3 bedroom home locally in winter could save you hundreds of dollars compared to a summer move.
Best Time to Move
Do you want to avoid the inflated prices and get better service availability? This leads to the question of the best moving month. It is recommended to move between June and August. Winter is considered the off season for removalist companies. Not only are prices lower but you’re also more likely to get your preferred dates and times. Spring and autumn are reasonable too but summer is the most expensive time to move in Australia.
These price differences are not small. Moving in winter instead of summer could save you up to $1,000 for larger homes or interstate moves. That’s money that could be better spent settling into your new place or covering other expenses like furniture, internet or utility setup.
Pick the Best Day to Move
Weekdays are generally the most cost-effective days to move. Tuesday and Wednesday are the quietest days. Most people move on Fridays or over the weekend to avoid taking time off work. That means removalists are booked out or charging premium rates during those periods.
On a weekday you’ll avoid weekend traffic, get better service availability and sometimes even discounted rates. It might mean taking a day or two off work but the savings and convenience is worth it.
Hidden Costs You Might Miss
You budget for a moving van or removalists. But what about the other costs? These ones catch people out. Like:
- Utility connection fees
- Internet installation charges
- Cleaning services for the old property
- Packing materials
- Storage costs
- Pet boarding or babysitting
All of these can add up to the total cost of your move. And if you’re moving during peak season or on short notice, prices can be even higher. Make sure you factor these in before you move.
Move Yourself or Hire Help?
There’s no one answer here. If you’re moving a small apartment a short distance and have a few mates to help, you might get away with a rented van and some pizza. But for bigger homes, longer distances or tight timelines, professional help can save you time and stress.
Professional removalists know how to pack, move and unload everything efficiently. They’re insured and experienced, so your stuff is safer with them than in the back of a borrowed ute.
How Move-in Connect Makes It Easier
Move-in Connect takes care of the behind the scenes stuff that adds to the stress of moving. While you’re dealing with boxes, furniture and logistics, we handle your utility connections. Whether it’s electricity, gas, or internet, we line everything up so it’s ready when you arrive.
No need to call multiple providers or spend hours comparing plans. Move-in Connect compares services for you and gets everything sorted in one go. That saves you time and avoids service delays or missed bills during the transition.
Tips for an Easier Move
- Book removalists early especially in summer
- Move in winter or early spring to save money
- Move midweek to avoid weekend surcharges
- Start packing 2-3 weeks before you move
- Label boxes clearly so you don’t get confused later
- Organise utility connections ahead of time
- Keep essentials in a separate bag: clothes, chargers, toiletries
Moving house can be stressful, but planning can make a big impact. Choosing the right time of year, day of the week and support team can save you money and stress. Move-in Connect makes it easier. We get your utilities connected, recommend providers and save you from hours on hold.
Whether you’re renting your first apartment or moving into a new home with your family, being smart about your moving date and setup can save you time, money and stress. Start with the basics, plan ahead of your move in day and let Move-in Connect take care of the rest.
