Moving Interstate Guide
August 2025
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Moving house in Australia can be expensive, but with proper planning and our free moving cost calculator, you can budget accurately and avoid nasty surprises. Whether you're moving interstate from Sydney to Melbourne, relocating from Brisbane to Perth, or planning a local move in Cairns, understanding your moving costs upfront is essential.
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Understanding Cubic Metres - The Key to Accurate Moving Quotes
Australian removalists price moves based on cubic metres (CBM) - the volume your belongings occupy in the truck. Getting this calculation right is crucial for accurate quotes.
Cubic Metre Calculator Formula
CBM = Length (m) × Width (m) × Height (m)
Example: A dining table measuring 1.8m long × 1m wide × 0.8m high = 1.44 cubic metres
Average Cubic Metres by Home Size
- Studio apartment: 8-12 cubic metres
- 1-bedroom apartment: 12-17 cubic metres
- 2-bedroom house: 18-25 cubic metres
- 3-bedroom house: 25-40 cubic metres
- 4-bedroom house: 40-65 cubic metres
- 5+ bedroom house: 65+ cubic metres
Don't Forget Your Boxes!
- Studio: 10-15 boxes
- 1-2 bedroom: 20-35 boxes
- 3-4 bedroom: 35-70 boxes
- 5+ bedroom: 70-100+ boxes
General rule of thumb:
6 boxes = 1 cubic metre
Full-Service Removalists vs Container Transport - Which is Cheaper?
Full-Service Removalists
Cost: $120-$250 per cubic metre
Includes: Professional packing, loading, transport, unloading, insurance
Best for: Busy families, valuable items, long-distance moves
Includes: Professional packing, loading, transport, unloading, insurance
Best for: Busy families, valuable items, long-distance moves
Self-Pack Container Transport
Cost: $1.50-$4.00 per kilometre
Includes: Container delivery, transport, basic insurance
Best for: Budget-conscious movers, flexible timelines, DIY approach
Includes: Container delivery, transport, basic insurance
Best for: Budget-conscious movers, flexible timelines, DIY approach
Container Capacities:
- 20ft container: 33 cubic metres capacity
- 40ft container: 67 cubic metres capacity
Factors That Affect Your Moving Costs
1. Distance
Interstate moves cost significantly more than local moves due to fuel, accommodation, and time requirements.
2. Volume (Cubic Metres)
The more belongings you have, the higher your costs. Decluttering before moving can save hundreds of dollars.
3. Accessibility
- Difficult access: Stairs, narrow streets, long carries increase costs
- Lift access: Buildings without lifts may incur additional charges
- Parking restrictions: Limited parking can add time and costs
4. Timing
- Peak season (November-March): 20-30% higher costs
- Weekends: Premium rates apply
- Public holidays: Expect surcharges
- End/start of month: Higher demand, higher prices
5. Additional Services
- Professional packing: $30-50 per hour
- Piano moving: $200-800 extra
- Storage: $150-400 per month
- Insurance upgrades: 1-3% of item value
6. Fuel Surcharges
With rising fuel costs in 2025, many removalists apply fuel surcharges of 5-15% on long-distance moves.
Hidden Moving Costs to Budget For
Many Australians forget these additional expenses:
- Utility connections: $200-500
- Address change fees: $50-150
- Cleaning (old/new property): $200-600
- Travel and accommodation: $200-1,000+
- Time off work: Lost income
- Storage (if needed): $150-400/month
- Insurance excess: $500-1,000 if claims arise
Total hidden costs: $1,000-3,000+ on top of removalist fees
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