Moving house – should you DIY or call in the pros?

Deciding how to move your belongings is one of the biggest choices you’ll make in the moving process. While doing it yourself can feel like a way to save money, professional help can reduce stress, risk and physical effort — and in some situations, even help you stay within budget.

Below are four common moving options with realistic cost expectations and practical considerations.

Doing everything yourself — borrowing a ute or van and asking friends for help — seems budget-friendly at first glance.

If it works, it can be cheaper than hiring professionals. But remember: manual handling, loading and unloading takes time, physical strength and coordination. And your existing contents insurance may not cover belongings while they’re in transit, leaving you financially exposed if something goes wrong. You might need separate transit cover, which can add to the cost.

For more on protecting your belongings in transit, see What happens if there’s an accident or theft during your move?

When it makes sense:

• You’re moving very short distances
• You have very few possessions
• You don’t mind physical work

Hiring a van or small truck simplifies transport, but it still places the physical work on you.

Truck hire in Australia typically ranges from around $70 to $150+ per day depending on truck size and rental company, with additional costs for fuel and insurance for the vehicle itself — but this usually doesn’t include insurance for your belongings.

You also still need to load, secure and unload everything yourself, which adds time and effort.

When it makes sense:

• You want more control than total DIY
• The move is local and compact
• You have reliable helpers lined up

Online marketplaces can connect you with casual removal teams and a truck for a middle-ground solution.

These can be more cost-effective than full professional services, and you won’t need to recruit help from friends. However, be aware that:

• Prices can vary widely, depending on demand and timing
• Many marketplace providers don’t include transit insurance for your goods — only liability for vehicle damage if at all
• Quoted pricing may change if the job runs longer than expected

Typical range:

• For a local 2–3 bedroom move, expect rough estimates from ~$600 to $1,400+, depending on time required and type of vehicle.

When it makes sense:

• You want help but still want flexibility
• Your load is moderate in size
• You’re comfortable managing aspects of the move

Professional removalists handle the loading, transport and unloading from start to finish. They bring experience, equipment and insurance options designed for moving house.

In Australia, local removalist pricing varies based on home size, distance and services — but typical estimates for two professional movers with a truck are:

• Around $110–$200 per hour for local moves (two movers + truck)
• A standard local 3-bedroom move often ends up between $800 and $1,500+ when quoted as total jobs rather than just hourly rates

Larger homes, more helpers, packing/unpacking, and weekend or peak moves can increase costs.

Most professional removalists also offer transit insurance — either included or as an add-on — giving you protection for accidental damage or loss. They may also offer professional packing or temporary storage for additional fees.

When it makes sense:

• You want a low-stress experience
• Time and safety matter more than minimal upfront cost
• You have valuable or fragile items to protect