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.
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.

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

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.
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.
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.
Even if your quote looks affordable, watch out for these not-always-mentioned extras:
Always ask for an itemised quote and check the fine print!

Use a volume calculator or list everything room by room to estimate the total load.
Check the number of kilometres between both locations using Google Maps.
Will you pack yourself or outsource? Need storage, insurance, or temporary accommodation?
Use trusted platforms like Muval, Upmove, or Getamover to compare real-time pricing.
Make sure the quote covers:
Want to cut down your moving expenses without cutting corners? Here’s how:
| 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 |
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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