How much does a removalist cost in Sydney?

It’s a fair and important question, after all, moving house already comes with plenty of stress, and the last thing anyone wants is unexpected expenses popping up on moving day. Removalist pricing can vary widely depending on a range of factors, from the size of your home to the distance you’re relocating. In this blog, we’ll break down what you can expect to pay, what affects removalist rates in Sydney, and how to plan your budget for a hassle-free move.

Average Removalist Rates in Sydney

The average hourly rate for a removalist in Sydney typically ranges between $120 and $180 per hour for two movers and a truck. This is based on local, metro-area moves. Most reputable removalist companies will have a minimum charge of two hours, and some also include a call-out fee, which can add an extra hour of cost to cover travel time from their depot to your pickup address.

If you’re moving a one-bedroom apartment, the total cost might sit between $300 and $600, depending on access, packing, and whether there’s a lift or stairs involved. A two- or three-bedroom home could cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 or more, depending on the volume of furniture and how far you’re moving. It is important to check pricing packages and comparing with the amount of items you may have in your home.

What Influences the Cost?

There are several key factors that can impact how much you’ll pay for a removalist in Sydney:

• Property Size & Volume of Items: Larger homes with more furniture naturally take longer to pack and transport. If you’re moving a five-bedroom house, expect to pay significantly more than someone moving out of a studio apartment.

• Access & Layout: Removalists often charge extra if there are access difficulties—such as steep driveways, narrow staircases, or long carry distances from your door to the truck.

• Distance of the Move: Moving across the city will cost less than relocating from Sydney to another region or state. Interstate removals involve fuel costs, tolls, and possibly accommodation for the drivers, which adds up quickly.

• Time of the Move: Weekends and public holidays are high-demand periods and may carry a surcharge. Booking your move mid-week can sometimes secure a better rate.

• Additional Services: If you need packing and unpacking, box hire, disassembly or reassembly of furniture, or storage, these services will be added to your final bill.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

While many removalist companies are transparent, it’s always good to double-check what’s included in your quote. Ask whether there are extra fees for:

• Stairs or elevators

• Dismantling beds or furniture

• Waiting times due to delays

• Heavy items such as pianos, pool tables or large safes

• Overtime, if the job runs longer than expected

Being informed about these charges upfront can save you from bill shock when the invoice lands in your inbox.

Saving Money on Your Move

There are several smart ways to reduce the cost of hiring a removalist in Sydney. The first is to declutter before moving. The less stuff you have, the less time it takes. Doing your own packing and labelling boxes clearly can also speed up the process on moving day. If you can, book early and move mid-week, as weekends often come with peak rates. And finally, get multiple quotes—but remember, the cheapest price doesn’t always mean the best service. Look for a balance of good value and professional reviews.

Why Professional Removalists Are Worth the Investment

While it’s tempting to try to cut costs by DIY-ing your move or hiring a cheap truck and a couple of mates, there’s real value in using a professional removalist. Reputable companies come with insurance, experience, and the right equipment to handle your furniture carefully and safely. Plus, they work efficiently—what might take you a whole day could take a professional team just a few hours.