Moving house is more than just packing boxes and hiring a truck. There are lots of extra costs that can surprise you especially if you’re moving interstate or a long distance. Here’s a simple guide to all the little (and big) expenses you might face, plus tips to help you budget better.

1. Preparation Costs

Packing Supplies:

• Boxes: $50–$500 (depending on how much you have)

• Butcher’s paper: $10–$13 for 2.5kg

• Packing tape: $2–$5 per roll

• Tape dispenser gun: $8–$13 each

• Markers/stickers: $5

• Bubble wrap: $2 per roll

• Tissue paper: $5–$10

• Trolley hire: $15 (4 hours)

• Moving blankets: $10–$20 each

Tip:
Check Facebook Marketplace or local “Buy, Swap, Sell” groups for free or secondhand supplies to save money.

Cleaning & Yard Costs

• Bond/house cleaner: $100–$1,000

• Yard maintenance: $60 for a basic mow, up to $1,000 for a full clean-up

• Tip fees: $11–$24+ per ute load (check with your local council)

Disconnection & Reconnection Fees

• Electricity, gas, water: $20–$100 each for disconnecting and reconnecting

Storage

• Small unit (1–2m²): $50–$100/month

• Medium unit (5–10m²): $150–$300/month

• Large unit (10m²+): $300–$500/month

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2. Transport Costs

How much you pay depends on how far you’re moving and how much stuff you have.
Interstate/Long Distance Removalists:

• 10m³: $1,200–$2,500

• 20m³: $2,400–$5,000

• 30m³: $3,600–$7,500

• 40m³: $4,800–$10,000

Local Moves (by the hour):

• Small apartment (3 hours): $240–$720

• 2-bedroom house (5 hours): $400–$1,200

• 3-bedroom house (6 hours): $480–$1,440

• 4-bedroom house (8 hours): $640–$1,920

Tip:
Use our House Moving Calculator to estimate your cubic metres and get more accurate quotes.

3. Travel Expenses

If you’re moving interstate or long distance, don’t forget:

• Meals and snacks on the road

• Hotels or accommodation

• Flights (if you’re not driving)

• Fuel costs

• Pet care or transport

4. New Home Costs

• Storage: You might need a storage unit if you can’t move everything in straight away.

• Meal delivery: Handy if your kitchen isn’t set up yet.

• Reconnection fees: For power, water, gas, internet, etc.

5. Other Hidden Costs

• Insurance: Check if your contents are covered during the move.

• Lost workdays: Taking time off to pack, move, or clean.

• Replacement items: Sometimes things get lost or broken and need to be replaced.

📝 Easy Ways to Save

• Compare quotes: Use Best Rated Transport for free, instant quotes from trusted removalists and container movers.

• DIY options: Consider self-pack container moves for flexibility and savings.

• Declutter: Move less, pay less. Sell, donate, or bin what you don’t need.

• Plan ahead: Book early to get the best rates and avoid last-minute costs.

🚚 Why Use Best Rated Transport?

• Free instant quotes: Compare removalists, container transport, and more in minutes.

• No credit card needed: No obligation to book.

• Trusted, vetted movers: All partners are insured and reviewed.

• Easy planning tools: Moving checklist, inventory calculator.

• Customer support: Friendly help every step of the way.

❓ FAQ: Moving House Costs (FAQPage)

Are moving quotes really free?
Yes! All quotes on Best Rated Transport are free and there’s no obligation to book.

What’s the best way to save money on moving?
Compare at least three quotes, declutter before you pack, and look for secondhand packing supplies.

How do I estimate my moving costs?
Use our moving calculator and moving checklist to plan your budget.

Can I move on a tight budget?
Yes, consider self-pack options, backloading, and moving mid-week for better rates.

Where can I get more moving tips?
Check our moving guides and FAQPage.

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