Moving house can be stressful, time-consuming, and let’s not even talk about the cost. You’re already dealing with deposits, stamp duty (maybe), and furnishing a whole new place. The last thing you need is the bill from your chosen moving experts to send you spiraling. Finding reliable removalists in Sydney or anywhere else can feel like an expensive necessity.
But here’s the thing: while hiring professionals is a must for a smooth move, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few tricks that can help you save some serious cash.
1. Declutter Like a Pro Before Moving
Why It Works
The fewer items you take with you, the less you pay. Most removal companies calculate quotes based on volume and time, so reducing both instantly lowers the cost.
A Quick Decluttering Guide
- Sort room by room: Keep, donate, bin, sell.
- Follow the 12-month rule: If you haven’t used it in a year, it’s probably not worth moving.
- Check for duplicates: Especially in the kitchen (everyone has that second toaster).
- Sell valuable items: Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or a weekend garage sale.
Every item you successfully purge is weight and volume you won’t have to pay removal companies in Sydney to transport across town.
2. Choose Cheaper Days and Times to Move
Best vs Worst Times to Book
Here’s a comparison to help you avoid expensive slots:
|
Time of the Year/Day |
Cost Level |
Reason |
|
Mid-week (Tue–Thu) |
Low |
Fewer bookings, better rates |
|
Mid-month |
Low |
Avoids lease turnover periods |
|
Winter |
Low–Moderate |
Off-peak season |
|
Weekends (Fri–Sun) |
High |
Peak booking period |
|
Start/End of month |
High |
Popular moving dates |
|
Public holidays |
Very high |
Increased demand & labour rates |
Extra Tip
Ask your removalist whether they offer off-peak discounts for:
- Afternoon moves
- Same-day flexible time slots
- Non-urgent jobs
Even switching from a Saturday morning to a Tuesday afternoon can save you hundreds.
3. Pack Everything Yourself (Properly)
Full-service packing is convenient, but it’s also one of the priciest add-ons. Doing it yourself can reduce your overall bill considerably.
How to Pack Efficiently
- Use sturdy, uniform boxes to speed up stacking.
- Label each box clearly with the room name and contents.
- Tape everything securely — open boxes slow down the move.
- Place boxes near the entrance so removalists can move quickly.
- Disassemble furniture in advance if you can.
Tip: Where to Find Free Boxes
- Local supermarkets
- Liquor shops (great for heavy items)
- Community Facebook groups
- Neighbours who’ve recently moved
The more organised you are, the less time removalists will spend waiting, and the less you pay.
Bonus Tip: Compare Quotes Properly
When comparing quotes, look beyond the dollar figure. Consider:
- Insurance coverage
- Included vs optional services
- Truck size
- Number of movers
- Hourly rate vs fixed price
Final Thoughts
Moving house doesn’t need to drain your wallet. By decluttering early, choosing off-peak dates, and handling your own packing, you can significantly reduce your moving costs without compromising on quality.
If you’re planning a move soon, start gathering quotes from reputable removal companies and use these tips to negotiate better value. A smoother, more affordable move is absolutely possible.
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