Moving Homes in Australia: A Cost Breakdown

Sept 17th, 2025


  Moving Places? Here's How to Make It Less Stressful (and Less Expensive)

New home, fresh start — exciting, right? But moving house can come with some not-so-exciting surprises for your wallet. Between removalists, boxes, cleaning, storage, and the endless list of little extras, costs can snowball before you've even unpacked your toothbrush.

The good news? With smart planning and a quick, flexible loan from Money Plus, you can take the stress out of moving without breaking the bank.


💸 What Does It Actually Cost to Move House?

Here's a breakdown of the most common moving costs:


🚚 1. Removalists: The Big One

Hiring professionals to move your stuff is often the largest single expense.

  • Local moves: $80–$300 per hour (usually with a 4-hour minimum)
  • Interstate moves: $2,500–$5,500 for a standard 3-bedroom house
  • DIY option: Truck hire for $100–$250 per day (plus fuel)

💡 Money Plus Tip: Book early to lock in better rates, and avoid weekends to save even more.


📦 2. Packing Supplies (Yep, Boxes Aren't Free)

You'll need:

  • Standard boxes: $2–$5 each (or free if you're savvy — check local Facebook groups)
  • Bubble wrap, tape, labels: $70–$150 total
  • Specialty boxes (TVs, wardrobes): $100+

💡 Hack it: Wrap fragile items in towels or blankets to save money and reduce waste. Facebook Marketplace is a goldmine for free moving boxes.


🧼 3. End-of-Lease Cleaning (Because That Bond Won't Pay For It)

If you're renting, a full clean is often required to get your bond back.

  • General clean: $250–$600
  • Carpet clean: $150–$200
  • Yard tidy-up: $Add around $100+

💡 Money Plus Tip: DIY the basics, and hire professionals for carpets or deep cleaning only.


4. Utility Transfers (It's Never Just a Flip of a Switch)

Setting up your new place usually means extra fees:

  • Electricity/Gas reconnection: $50–$150
  • Internet setup: $50–$100 (often waived with new providers)

💡 Pro move: Use this opportunity to shop around and switch to a better plan.


📦 5. Storage (If You Need a Holding Zone for Your Stuff)

  • Small unit: $100–$200/month
  • Larger unit: $250–$500/month

This can be a lifesaver if there's a gap between moving out and moving in.


🛋️ 6. Furniture & Essentials (Because a New Place Needs... Stuff)

A bigger place (or even a fresh start) may mean buying essentials like:

  • Couches, beds, fridges, washing machines, etc.
  • Cost range: $500–$3,000+

💡 Budget hack: Hit up Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace for second-hand steals.


🧠 How to Save Money When You Move

1. Declutter First

Sell, donate, or toss what you don't need. Fewer items = cheaper move.

2. DIY Where You Can

Hire a truck or van, call in a few mates, and move things yourself. Pizza is cheaper than a removalist crew.

3. Move Mid-Week

Avoid weekends and public holidays to save on moving costs.

4. Get Multiple Quotes

Always get 2–3 quotes for services like removalists, storage, and cleaning. Ask for fixed pricing to avoid nasty surprises.

5. Review Your Utility Plans

Use your move as a chance to switch to cheaper electricity, gas, or internet providers.


💰 Sample Budget: Local 3-Bedroom House Move

Expense Estimated Cost
Removalists (4 hrs) $800
Packing Materials $150
Cleaning Services $350
Utility Transfers $100
Food/Takeaway $150
Total $1,550

💡 Always factor in a buffer for things like last-minute repairs, broken items, or takeaway meals during move-in week.



💡 Money Plus Can Help You Move Smarter

Unexpected moving costs can catch anyone off guard — that's where Money Plus comes in. Our quick, unsecured loans help you cover the costs of moving without the stress.


Fast, Flexible Loans

  • Quick approval and fast transfers
  • Borrow from $100 to $6,000
  • Flexible repayment plans to suit your needs

No Hidden Surprises

Clear terms. No sneaky fees. You'll always know what you're paying.

Simple Online Application

Apply online in minutes and get a response within few hours.


Ready to Move?

Moving house doesn't have to empty your wallet. With a little planning and support from Money Plus, you can make the move smooth and affordable.

Need quick cash to cover your move? Click here to get started.


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