Moving house checklist, and how removalists charge in Australia

Most local moves are charged by the hour for a truck and a crew. Interstate moves are usually quoted as a fixed price by volume. Published rates for two movers and a truck:

• Melbourne: about $125–$230 an hour, averaging around $170, GST included. The same source puts a local three-bedroom move at about $840–$2,100 (What’s The Damage, verified October 2026).
• Sydney: Two Men and a Truck lists a rate from $190 an hour including GST for two movers and a truck (company website, checked October 2026). Ask any company whether a call-out or travel fee is added on top.

What changes the bill: stairs and lifts, how far the truck parks from the door, weekend and public-holiday rates, minimum hours, travel time, and whether everything is packed before the crew arrives.

• Is the rate per hour or per half-hour, and what is the minimum?
• When does the clock start — at your door or at the depot?
• Are there fuel levies, stair fees or extra charges for heavy items such as a piano or fridge?
• What insurance covers your belongings in transit?

• Get at least three removalist quotes on the same inventory.
• Book the removalist and get the date, rate and minimum hours in writing.
• Clear out: sell, donate or book a rubbish removal for what you won’t move.
• If you rent, give notice in writing as your lease requires.

• Collect boxes, tape and labels; pack the rooms you use least first.
• Arrange connection of electricity, gas and internet at the new place and disconnection at the old one.
• Update your address with your bank, employer, Medicare, the ATO and your state’s licence and registration authority.
• If you rent, book an end of lease clean (see our end of lease cleaning checklist).

• Defrost and dry the fridge and freezer.
• Pack a first-night box: kettle, toiletries, chargers, bedding, medication, basic tools.
• Confirm the removalist’s arrival time and parking at both addresses.

• Take meter readings and photos at both properties.
• Walk through the empty house before the truck leaves.
• Check items off as they come into the new place.