When you've just bought a new home, the last thing you want is to blow your budget on removalist fees. Moving is a necessary part of the process, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some practical, easy ways to save money when hiring removalists, all while making your move as smooth as possible.
· What do Removalists Actually Charge For?:
Let's start with the basics: what are you really paying for when you hire removalists? The cost of hiring removalist in Melbourne can vary quite a bit, depending on a few factors.
first there's the distance. If you're moving across the country, it's going to cost a lot more than just shifting across town. Then there's the size of the move. More stuff means more time, more space and more hands on deck. And don't forget the extras, like packing and unpacking services or handling fragile items.
So, what's the average? For a standard 3 bedroom home, you're looking at around $1,000 to $2,000 (based on Melbourne data in 2024) but that can climb higher if you're adding on more services or going further afield.
· Plan Ahead and Save Big
Here's one of the simplest tricks to save money: book early!! Waiting until the last minute could see you paying a premium, especially if removalists are busy. The earlier you can lock in a date, the better your chances of getting a good deal.
If you want the best rate without the last-minute rush, try Upmove - they make it easy to compare and book removalists early. Research shows that booking four weeks ahead can save you up to 25%.
Another tip - Try to avoid moving during peak times. Everyone and their neighbour are lookin got move during the weekends or school holidays. If you can swing it, aim for mid-week or off-peak times. Moving in winter is the ticket as it's typically quieter.
· Don't Settle for the First Quote:
We've all been guilty of it - getting a quote and just running with it because it feels like one more box ticked off the moving checklist. But here's the thing: removalist quotes can vary wildly. Some companies charge more because they've been around longer or offer premium services, but that doesn't mean you can't find a better deal elsewhere.
Get a t least three quotes, and make sure you're comparing apples with apples. Some companies might look cheap at first glance, but they'll add on extra fees for things like stairs, parking or packing materials. Others might include insurance in the price, which could be a lifesaver if something gets damaged in transit.
PRO TIP: ask for a breakdown of costs so you can see exactly where your money's going.
· Lighten the Load Before Moving Day:
This one's a no-brainer: the more stuff you have to move, the more it's going to cost. So why not use your move as an excuse to have a proper clear-out? Sell, donate or bin anything you don't really need in your new place. You'll save on removalist costs and have less clutter to deal with once you're settled in.
Here's how it helps: removalists usually charge based on the cubic meter of your load. Every extra cubic metre could cost you $100 - $200 more. Imagine cutting that down by half just by getting rid of old furniture, clothes and junk you've been meaning to clear out anyway!
If you're feeling really organised, you could even hold a garage sale or sell items online. Every bit of cash you make could go towards your moving budget.
DIY Packing: Worth the Effort??:
Let's face it - packing is a pain. But if you're willing to roll up your sleeves and do it yourself, you could save hundreds. Professional packing services are great if you're short on time, but they don't come cheap. On average, packing services can add an extra $500 to your move, depending on teh size of your home.
The trick to DIY packing is being organised. Start early, tackle one room at a time, and make sure to label EVERYTHING properly. That way, unpacking at the other end will be much easier (and you won't be tearing your hair out trying to find the kettle!).
You can also save on packing materials by getting second-hand boxes from local shops or asking friends and family. And don't splurge on fancy packing supplies - towels, sheets and even socks make great padding for fragile items.
Backloading: What's that?:
Not everyone's heard of backloading, but it's one of the best kept secrets when it comes to saving on removalist fees. Backloading is where removalists fit your stuff into a truck that's alredy going your way, essentially sharing the truck with other customers.
If your move isn't too urgent and you don't mind sharing space, it's a great way to cut costs. On long-distance moves, backloading can cut your removalist bill by 50%. Just be flexible with your timing, and ask your removalist company if they offer this service.
Insurance: Don't Skip It!:
We all like to think our stuff will arrive in one piece, but accidents do happen. Whether it's a scratched table or a smashed TV, damaged items can be costly to replace. That's where moving insurance comes in.
Some removalists offer insurance, but it's usually an extra charge. Before you sign uyp for it, check if your home contents insurance already covers you during the move - some policies do, so it's worth checking. If you need to buy insurance, shop around to find the best deal. You could end up saving jundreds in case something goes wrong.
Negotiate and Ask for Discounts:
It never hursts to ask, right? Once you've got a few quotes in hand, don't be shy about negotiating. If one company's offering a service you like, but another's cheaper, ask if they can match or beat the price. You'd be surprised how often removalist companies are willing to offer discounts to secure your booking.
You can also ask if they offer any special deals for certain times of the year, or even discounts for booking online. Every little bit helps!
Wrapping Up:
Moving to a new home is exciting, but the costs can add up fast if you're not careful. The good news is that with a little planning and some clever strategies, you can save a ton of money when hiring removalists.
Remember to book early, shop around for the best quotes, and don't be afraid to take on some of the work yourself, like packing or downsizing. And if you're really looking to cut costs, consider backloading or haggling for a discount.
With these tips, you'll be will on your way to keeping moving costs down and focusing on what really matters - enjoying your new home!
** This article compiled in collaboration with Upmove.
CONTACT GADSDEN FINANCE for a Free, no obligation chat to an industry expert with a wealth of experience and knowledge to help you on your way. (03) 5443 9098
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