How Much Does It Cost to Move a House in Australia?

Let’s face it—moving house isn’t just about packing boxes and loading a truck. It’s about planning, budgeting, and making sure you don’t overspend where you don’t have to.

This guide will give you a step-by-step breakdown of moving costs in Australia—whether you’re moving down the road or across the country. Think of it as your budgeting GPS for a stress-free move.

 

Table Of Content

 

 

Average House Moving Costs in Australia (2025)

 

In 2025, the average cost to move a home in Australia ranges from $350 to over $4,500, depending on the type of move, number of items, and services you opt for.

Here’s a general estimate:

Move Type

Price Range

Local Move (0–20 km)

$350 – $1,000

City Move (20–100 km)

$700 – $2,200

Interstate Move

$2,200 – $4,800+

Full-Service Move

$3,500 – $6,800+

 

These prices are estimates based on standard 2–4 bedroom homes. Actual costs will vary based on volume, access, and services.

 

What Drives the Cost of Your House Move?

 

 

1. Distance Between Locations

The further the move, the higher the transportation and labour costs. For longer hauls (like Sydney to Brisbane), expect extra fuel and overnight charges.

 

2. Total Volume or Load Size

Removalists typically charge based on cubic metres (m³). The more furniture and boxes you have, the bigger the truck—and the bill.

Home Size Estimated Volume
Studio/1 Bedroom 10–20 m³
2–3 Bedroom House 25–40 m³
4+ Bedroom House 45+ m³

 

Cost per cubic metre: Usually $100–$150.

 

3. Access Difficulty

Got narrow staircases, no elevators, or limited parking? You might be charged extra for labour, equipment, or time spent navigating tight spaces.

Additional cost: $100–$300 based on access challenges.

 

4. Packing and Materials

Want movers to handle the packing too? That’s an add-on cost.

Service Price Estimate
Packing only $100 – $400
Packing with materials $150 – $600
Unpacking services $80 – $250

 

Local vs. Interstate Moves: What’s the Difference in Pricing?

 

 

Local Moves

Charged hourly. Expect to pay $130 to $180 per hour for a team of two movers with a truck.

Most companies have a 2-hour minimum.

  • Add $60–$80/hr per extra mover.
  • Ideal for same-city or short-distance moves.

 

Interstate Moves

Cost is based on distance + load volume.

Longer moves may also include accommodation, fuel, tolls, and transfer depots.

Example: Moving a 3-bedroom home from Melbourne to Adelaide (726 km) can cost $2,800 to $4,500, depending on volume.

 

Special Handling Items have Extra Charges

If you have items that require special care, be ready to pay more.

Item Type Estimated Cost
Pool Table $250 – $600
Piano $300 – $650
Large Appliances $50 – $100/each
Antique Pieces Custom quoted

 

These items often need padding, extra labour, or specialist equipment.

 

Hidden Fees You Might Overlook

 

Even if your quote looks affordable, watch out for these not-always-mentioned extras:

  • Fuel levies and tolls
  • Insurance (some quotes exclude it)
  • Weekend or holiday surcharges
  • Long carry distances
  • Dismantling or reassembly of furniture

Always ask for an itemised quote and check the fine print!

 

How to Estimate Your Moving Cost (Step-by-Step)

 


Step 1: Calculate Your Inventory

Use a volume calculator or list everything room by room to estimate the total load.

 

Step 2: Measure the Distance

Check the number of kilometres between both locations using Google Maps.

 

Step 3: Choose Your Services

Will you pack yourself or outsource? Need storage, insurance, or temporary accommodation?

 

Step 4: Get 2–3 Quotes

Use trusted platforms like Muval, Upmove, or Getamover to compare real-time pricing.

 

Step 5: Confirm All Inclusions

Make sure the quote covers:

  • Movers and truck
  • Fuel, tolls
  • Insurance
  • Packing/unpacking (if selected)
  • GST

 

How to Save Money When Moving a House

 

Want to cut down your moving expenses without cutting corners? Here’s how:

  • Declutter before the move. Less stuff means less cost.
  • Use second-hand boxes or borrow from friends.
  • Move mid-week or mid-month. Avoid peak periods like weekends.
  • Do your own packing (but label properly!)
  • Ask for bundled services (e.g. packing + moving = discounts)
  • Choose backloading if you’re flexible with dates.

 

Costs at a Glance

 

Category Estimated Range
Local House Move $350 – $1,200
Long-Distance Move $2,200 – $4,800+
Packing Services $100 – $600
Special Item Handling $250 – $650
Storage (if needed) $100 – $350/month


Is Moving Expensive? Only If You Don’t Plan It.

 

House moving costs can vary greatly, but with the right strategy, you can avoid unexpected expenses and get the best value.

By knowing the average costs, getting transparent quotes, and reducing your load, you can make your next move efficient, stress-free—and budget-friendly.

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LOCATIONS & SUBURBS

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