How Much Does It Cost to Move House in Melbourne?

Moving house in Melbourne comes with countless to-dos like booking removalists, decluttering, notifying utilities and the big question: how much will it all cost? Below we unpack every expense, from hourly rates to call-out fees, so you can set a realistic budget and keep moving day on track.

What Drives Moving Costs in Melbourne?

Several variables influence your final invoice. The most common are:

• Property size & volume of furniture (studio vs four bedroom home)
• Distance travelled between pick-up and drop-off suburbs
• Access issues (stairs, lifts, long carries, parking restrictions)
• Service level - standard load/transport/unload or full-service packing & unpacking
• Timing - weekends, end-of-month and summer dates attract higher demand
• Special items such as pianos, pool tables or fragile antiques requiring extra care

Average Removalist Rates by Home Size

*Based on two removalists and a 4-tonne truck. Hourly rates in Melbourne currently sit between $140 and $200 including GST for two movers, three-person crews average $220-$260.

Extra Fees to Watch

• Call-out / travel fee: typically one hour of labour to cover the truck’s trip from the depot and back.
• Fuel levy for jobs beyond 30 km from the CBD.
• Packing supplies: cartons, butcher’s paper, wardrobe boxes and tape (budget $100-$300).
• Professional packing service: $150-$400 depending on volume.
• Disassembly / reassembly of beds, modular sofas or gym equipment.
• Storage if settlement dates don’t line up.
• Comprehensive transit insurance for high value items.

Weekday vs Weekend: Does Timing Matter?

Yes. Friday and Saturday slots fill first and can cost 10-20 % more. If you can shift to mid-week, you’ll often secure cheaper hourly rates and better crew availability.

DIY Hire Truck vs Professional Removalists

Money-Saving Tips

• Declutter & donate items you no longer need.
• Book off-peak dates (mid-month, Tuesday-Thursday).
• Reserve parking outside both properties to shorten carry distance.
• Pack non-fragile items yourself and label every carton clearly.
• Combine services - adding our packing services often reduces total hours on moving day.

Moving Day Checklist

1. Confirm lift and loading dock bookings.
2. Photograph meter readings.
3. Keep an essentials box (kettle, chargers, pet leads).
4. Defrost fridge/freezer 24 hours prior.
5. Do a final sweep for keys, remotes and fragile items before the truck departs.

For a printable, suburb-by-suburb moving checklist, head to our resources hub.

People Also Ask (FAQ)

How much do removalists charge per hour in Melbourne?
Most companies charge $140-$200 for two movers and a truck, with three person crews around $220-$260.

Is it cheaper to move on a weekday?
Generally yes, mid-week bookings avoid weekend surcharges and high demand.

Do removalists dismantle furniture?
Reputable Melbourne removalists like WOW Removals can disassemble and reassemble beds, tables and wardrobes on request.

How far in advance should I book a moving company?
Aim for 3-4 weeks’ notice, longer for end-of-month or summer dates.

Does moving insurance cost extra?
Basic transit cover is included, comprehensive cover for valuables is optional and quoted separately.

Why Choose WOW Removals?

• Local expertise in all Melbourne suburbs, from Brunswick to Brighton
• Modern, GPS-tracked moving trucks with transit blankets and trolleys
• Fully trained crews who pack, load, transport, unload and organise your belongings with care
• Add-on services: office moves, interstate moves, secure storage and eco-friendly packing supplies

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