When you are planning a big move, you will discover that moving can be really expensive! It’s a lot of work to plan and prepare for and there are a lot of different things to organise.

One of the things you will notice is that there are a few different choices for moving these days, options you may not have been aware even existed. For budget movers, the idea of a self-pack move, also known as container transport, could be the solution you’re looking for to cut down on your moving costs. Let’s compare full service moves (removalists) vs. self-pack (container transport) moves, shall we? 

What is a Full Service Move? 

This is the “deluxe” move option for those who are time-poor and may not be on a budget. A full-service removal company handles loading and unloading your items as well as transporting your goods from your home to your new destination. Some full service removals also include packing services as well as packing supplies.

Pros to Full Service Moves 

The main thing is that it’s convenient. You don’t have to lift a finger for packing, loading, or unloading.You also get professionals doing the job which hopefully means your stuff will be in good hands. One thing to remember, however, is that some removalists can provide a pretty dodgy service. Go with a company that comes with trusted reviews and ratings. Best Rated Transport’s network of transport companies have all passed our very stringent test to ensure they are reliable, credible and respectful. Get Quote. 

Perhaps the biggest benefit to full service moves is that it’s a time saver. This option frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the move. However, you also have less control over how your items are packed and loaded which can be a problem for some. 

What is Self-Pack Move?

In a self-pack move, you pack, load and unload your items yourself. The transport company is only responsible for transporting your goods from A to B. This is typically done through container transport. 

Pros to Container Self Pack Moves

Unlike a full-service removalist, you won’t be charged for loading and unloading and thus this can be a really affordable way to move. Moving prices, like everything else, are on the rise and self-pack moves are a great way to cut down on the costs of moving especially if you are happy to pack your contents yourself. 

Self-Pack moves also allow you to be in control of your items and how they are packed and loaded. Plus, you get a great workout! 

Self-pack moves also allow you to move at your own pace. General container transport hire allows you to keep the container for 30 days. We recommend having it at each location for 10 days with 10 days for transport. This gives you 10 days on either side to remove your contents and allows for a more relaxed loading and unloading process.  

One other thing about self-pack moves is that they are often the only affordable choice for regional and remote areas.  Many removalists won't travel to remote and regional areas and, if they do they will charge a fortune. Best Rated Transport specialises in regional container transport so even if you are heading to, let's say, Charters Towers or Pilbara, we can assist in finding you with regional interstate transport. 

Costs of Full Service Moves vs Self-Pack Moves

Cost-wise, full service moves tend to be more expensive than self-pack moves because you are doing more of the work. It is hard to compare the two price-wise because it’s like comparing apples and oranges, but, you can get free quotes on BOTH options through the Best Rated Transport comparison platform. 

In general, you’re looking at around  $100 to $300 per cubic metre for a full-service move. So, if you are moving, let’s say 60 cubic metres, you’re looking at $6,000 to $18,000. A 40ft container will hold around the same - 60 cubic metres and generally costs around $3,000 to $6,000 to move interstate in Australia. However, there are additional costs to consider with self-pack moves including permit fees. 

Ultimately, your choice depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. If you value convenience and can afford it, full service may be the way to go. If you’re more budget-conscious and willing to do the work, a self-pack move could be ideal.

You can check out our moving calculator for more details about moving costs. 

Compare BOTH options right here for FREE with Best Rated Transport’s comparison platform. Connect with the Top Rated Transport companies in Australia. We are Australia's Best Rated way to compare prices, read reviews and more.