One of the first questions people ask when planning a move is: how much will it cost?

The answer depends on more than the distance between two addresses. A moving quote is shaped by the size of the move, access at both properties, the distance travelled, packing needs, storage requirements and any items that need extra care.

At Southern Removals & Storage, we quote based on the real details of the job, so your move can be planned properly from the start.

The amount being moved

The volume of furniture and belongings is one of the biggest factors in the cost of a move.

A small unit with a few larger items will usually be simpler than a full family home with boxes, garage items, outdoor furniture, shed contents and fragile pieces.

It is not only about the number of bedrooms. Some items need more time, care or equipment to move safely, including:

• Heavy dining tables

• Pianos

• Large lounges

• Antiques

• Fragile furniture

• Gym equipment

• Outdoor furniture

• Artwork and mirrors

• Access at each property

• Access can make a big difference to how long a move takes.

Good access helps the crew work more efficiently. More complex access does not mean the move cannot be done, but it does need to be planned properly.

Things that may affect access include:

• Stairs

• Steep driveways

• Long carries from the truck to the home

• Tight hallways

• Apartment lifts

• Loading zones

• Limited truck parking

• Rural driveways or difficult entry points

• The more we know before moving day, the better we can prepare.

• Local or interstate distance

A local move across town is very different from an interstate relocation.

Long-distance moves involve more planning around travel time, loading, route timing and delivery. Southern Removals & Storage services regular interstate routes across eastern Australia, helping customers move between Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, the ACT and South Australia.

For interstate moves, backload options may also be available when your move lines up with one of our existing routes. This can be a practical option for customers with flexible dates.

• Packing and materials

• Packing can also affect the cost of a move.

• Some customers pack everything themselves and only need boxes, tape and packing materials. Others prefer help with full or partial packing, especially for:

• Kitchen items

• Fragile belongings

• Artwork

• Mirrors

• Antiques

• Office items

• Rooms that take more time

• Good packing helps protect your belongings and makes the move more organised from the start.

• Storage between moves

• Sometimes moving dates do not line up neatly.

You may be waiting on settlement, renovating, downsizing or moving interstate. Short or long-term storage can help bridge the gap between pickup and delivery.

If storage may be needed, it is best to mention it early so the move can be planned properly.

How to get a more accurate quote

To help us quote your move clearly, it helps to provide:

Pickup and delivery locations

A list of what needs to be moved

Photos or notes of larger items

Access details at both properties

Packing or storage needs

Any fragile, heavy or high-value items

The better the information, the better the plan.

Planning your move properly

Every move is different. A clear quote starts with understanding what is being moved, where it is going and what details matter most.

At Southern Removals & Storage, we take the time to understand those details before moving day, so our team can plan properly, communicate clearly and handle your belongings with care.