Moving to a new city often means moving house or unit more than once, especially when you’re first settling in and finding your feet. And let’s face it, moving can be a pricey affair, especially if you don’t plan ahead. Here in Australia, removalists typically charge by the hour, and with labour costs being high, those fees can add up quickly (think at least $100 per hour!).
Of course, if you have a lot of furniture, especially delicate or valuable items (like a grand piano!), you’ll want experienced movers who take extra care. But if you’ve just arrived in Australia, chances are you’re starting with less to move.
Here’s how to keep your moving costs down:
1. Pack Like a Pro:
- DIY Packing: The more you can pack yourself, the more you’ll save. Be sure to wrap and protect your belongings carefully to prevent damage during the move.
- Free Boxes: Hit up your local grocery stores for free boxes. They might not be the perfect size, but every little bit helps!
- Kennards Self Storage: Check out Kennards Self Storage (www.kss.com.au) for box buy-back options or discounted pre-owned boxes.
2. Consider Your Options:
- Full-Service Movers: For maximum convenience, full-service movers will handle packing and moving. However, this is the most expensive option, with costs ranging from $500 to $2,000 AUD depending on the service and distance.
- Moving Only: If you can manage the packing yourself, hiring movers just for the transport will be significantly cheaper.
- Hire a Van: If you have a smaller load and feel confident driving a larger vehicle, hiring a van (like a Hyundai iLoad) can be a very cost-effective solution. You’ll have the flexibility to move at your own pace and potentially save a lot on moving costs.
3. Enlist Your Mates:
- Friends to the Rescue: If you have friends willing to lend a hand, their help with lifting and carrying can shave off valuable hours and reduce your moving costs.
4. Plan Ahead:
- Declutter: Before you pack, take the opportunity to declutter and get rid of anything you don’t need. The less you have to move, the lower your costs.
- Get Quotes:
- Contact several moving companies to get quotes and compare prices. Be sure to get a clear breakdown of their hourly rates and any additional fees.
- Don’t forget Airtasker! https://www.airtasker.com/au/ This platform lets you post your moving task and get quotes from individuals in your area who can help with loading, unloading, or even the entire move. It can be a very budget-friendly alternative.
