If you're planning a move, one of the key things you’re likely to ask is the cost. Whether you’re relocating across Perth or simply shifting to a nearby suburb, understanding how removalist costs are charged will help you budget effectively. Here, we’ll break down the factors that influence the cost of hiring a removalist and share some practical tips for keeping your expenses manageable.
What Affects Removalist Costs in Perth?
Several factors come into play when calculating the cost of a removalist. Understanding these can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.
1. Distance of the Move
The further your new home is from your current one, the more the move will cost. For local moves within the Perth metro area, removalists typically charge an hourly rate, rather than a fixed cost, allowing more flexibility and control over the final bill.
2. Size of the Move
The more items you have, the longer it will take to move. Larger homes with lots of furniture or bulky items will require more workers and potentially more trucks. Removalists typically estimate the cost based on the volume of items (measured in cubic metres) and the time it will take to load, transport, and unload them.
3. Complexity and Access
Some homes are easier to access than others. If your property has stairs, narrow hallways, or difficult parking access, movers will need extra time and effort, which can add to the cost. If you have valuable or bulky items like pianos or antiques, specialised care or equipment may be required, and that can come with additional fees.
Difficult access such as stairs can increase removalist costs
4. Additional Services
In addition to the actual moving process, removal companies may offer a variety of extra services that can affect the overall cost:
Packing services: Many people prefer to hire professionals to pack their belongings. While convenient, this adds to the overall cost.
Furniture disassembly and reassembly: If you have large items that need to be taken apart for transport, removalists can help with this. Once again, it adds to the overall cost.
Storage: Sometimes, you may need to store your belongings temporarily during a move. Perth Removals and Storage offers furniture storage solutions, which can be arranged for short or long-term needs, depending on your situation.
5. Timing of the Move
The time you choose to move also impacts the cost. Removalists are often busier (and more expensive) on weekends, public holidays, and at the end of the month. By scheduling your move for a mid-week or off-peak time, you can reduce costs.
6. Insurance
It’s always smart to consider insurance for your move. Accidents do happen, and insurance will protect your items from damage during the move. While not always included in the base price, many removalists offer insurance for an additional fee.
Indicative Cost of Removalists Perth
Now, let’s get to the numbers. Here’s an example of what you can expect to pay for standard removalist services in Perth:
Hourly rate: Standard moves can range from between $100 to $280 per hour, which generally covers two movers and a truck. This price range generally factors in location, truck size(s), experience and flexibility.
Travel time: Any extra travel time, including trips between properties, may also impact the final cost. Some moving companies work within a travel radius to ensure efficiency and to keep costs reasonable.
Internal relocations (moving furniture within the same property) start at around $400 for a standard room, including two callouts.
For larger moves, additional rooms are typically charged at $50+ per room, depending on the time required.
For more details, it’s always a good idea to get a personalised, itemised quote so that you know exactly what’s included in your final invoice.
Tips to Save on Removalist Costs
While moving costs can add up, there are plenty of ways to save money without compromising on service:
1. Declutter Before You Move
Moving fewer items means saving on time and truck space. Take this opportunity to sell, donate, or discard any belongings you no longer need.
2. Pack Yourself
If you're looking to cut costs, doing your own packing is a great option. Just be sure to use sturdy materials to protect your belongings. This can significantly reduce the number of hours needed for the move.
Packing Yourself can help you save costs in moving
3. Book Off-Peak
As mentioned, moving during off-peak times can help you save money. Consider moving mid-week or avoiding busy periods such as weekends and public holidays.
4. Compare Quotes
Getting multiple quotes from different removalists allows you to compare costs and find the best fit for your budget. Make sure to request itemised quotes so that you can clearly see where the costs are coming from.
5. Understand the Pricing Structure
Before agreeing to any quote, it’s important to know what’s included. Some removalists might add extra charges for fuel, staircases, or insurance, so always ask for a full breakdown.
Conclusion
The cost of hiring a removalist in Perth depends on several factors, including distance, volume, and the specific services you need. By decluttering, packing yourself, and timing your move wisely, you can help keep your costs under control. Always make sure to get clear, upfront quotes so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
For a reliable and professional service, Perth Removals and Storage offers a range of flexible moving options, whether you're moving house or need temporary storage solutions. With competitive rates and 5 star service they make it easy to plan and budget your next move.