Local removalists in Australia are quoted hourly, typically $100-$180/hour for two movers, more for a three-person crew, plus a fuel levy of roughly 5-20% on top that's worth asking about upfront rather than finding on the invoice. Get at least three quotes for the same scope of work — whether packing is included changes what you're actually comparing. Weekends and month-end are the busiest times, so book as early as you can if your date isn't flexible.
How to do it
- Get at least three written quotes for the same scope of work. A phone estimate isn't the same thing — ask for the figure in writing before moving day.
- Confirm whether the quote is hourly or flat-rate, and if hourly, ask what happens if access is difficult — stairs, a long carry, or no parking near the door can turn an estimated job into a longer, pricier one.
- Ask what's included by default: furniture blankets, basic disassembly/reassembly, and standard liability cover vary between companies even at a similar hourly rate.
- Book as early as you can for a weekend or month-end date — this is when most leases and settlements change over, and good local crews book out weeks ahead.
For a more specific range based on your own move, calculate your own moving costs.
Common mistakes
- Booking the cheapest quote without checking what's actually included — a fuel levy or a stair fee can make the lowest headline price the most expensive on the day.
- Not confirming a firm arrival window, and losing half a day waiting for a vague "sometime Saturday" booking.
- Assuming verbal quotes are binding — get the final price and inclusions in writing before moving day.
Useful links
- Find an AFRA-accredited removalist — the Australian Furniture Removers Association's own directory. Membership means the company is audited against a code of conduct and required to carry transit/public liability insurance — a genuine quality signal beyond price alone.