Planning a move in Australia? Before you lock in a date, take a pause—because when you choose to move can dramatically affect how much you spend.
From the price of removalists to the availability of trucks and the chaos of traffic, every little detail counts. But what if timing your move strategically could save you hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars?
In this guide, we will break down exactly when the best time to move is if you’re looking to cut costs without cutting corners. Whether you're relocating across the street or interstate, these tips are backed by expert advice and real statistics.
Here’s the thing most people don’t realise: the moving industry operates a lot like the travel industry. Prices fluctuate based on demand.
In fact, according to Canstar, Australians spend an average of $1,600–$5,400 on moving costs depending on the distance and volume of belongings. The timing of your move can either push you to the lower end of that range—or blow up your budget completely.
So let’s talk about strategy.
This one’s a game-changer.
Weekends are a popular choice for moving because people want to avoid missing work. But since demand is high on Saturdays and Sundays, moving companies often charge more for those days.
If you book your move on a weekday—like a Tuesday or Wednesday—you’re more likely to get a better price, as those days are usually less busy for movers. Removalists are less busy midweek, meaning better availability, fewer delays, and often, discounted rates.
Some companies offer midweek specials, so always ask if your flexibility can earn you a better price.
Why it saves money:
As per a research by Finder, over 30% of Australians move during the summer months (December to February) It’s no surprise—its school holidays, people are off work, and the weather is ideal. But guess what? As a result, moving during these busy times usually comes with a higher price tag.
The cheaper alternative?
Move in winter or early spring.
From June to August, removalist companies generally see fewer bookings. Not only are their prices more competitive, but they’re also more likely to offer flexible scheduling and faster turnarounds.
Yes, the weather might be a little cooler. But if saving hundreds of dollars is on your radar, it’s well worth layering up.
Autumn (March to May) can also offer sweet spots if you avoid Easter and public holidays.
Not a morning person? This tip might cost you.
Most professional movers recommend starting early—around 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.
Here’s why:
Evening or late-afternoon moves can sometimes be cheaper, but they often come with hidden costs—like traffic delays, overtime fees, and tired removalists rushing to wrap up.
Unless you're moving very few items or within a short distance, morning moves are generally more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.
Rental agreements often begin or finish around the first or last week of the month. That means movers and trucks are in hot demand around the 1st and 30th of each month.
If you want to:
That’s why moving between the 10th and 20th of the month is often the sweet spot for availability and better prices.
Talk to your removalist about mid-month options. During this mid-month period, some movers even reduce their rates to encourage bookings.
If you have school-going kids, moving during the school holidays can be a clever move—if timed right.
Why it works:
But here’s the caveat: the start and end of school holidays are also busy periods for families who plan relocations. Aim for the middle of the break for lower rates and less chaos.
Australia’s weather is famously unpredictable—but planning around it can pay off.
Hot tip:
You don’t just save on stress. Wet or overly hot weather can also damage your belongings or delay transit—leading to more hours billed.
If you're set on getting the best deal, the earlier you book, the better. Most professional removalists allow bookings up to 3 months in advance—and they reward early birds with better pricing.
But if your schedule allows, ask about stand-by rates. Some movers offer cheaper slots if you can be flexible and fill in last-minute cancellations.
It’s a win-win: they fill a slot, and you save money.
Even if you choose the cheapest time to move, poor planning can cost you big.
Remember, most removalists charge by the hour. So if you're still packing when they arrive or if boxes aren’t labelled, you’re paying for their waiting time.
Here’s what you can do:
| Factor | Money-Saving Option |
| Day of the Week | Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) |
| Time of Year | Winter (June–August) |
| Time of Month | Mid-month (10th–20th) |
| Time of Day | Early morning (7 AM–9 AM) |
| School Holidays | Middle of holiday period |
| Booking Lead Time | At least 1–2 months ahead |
| Weather Condition | Mild, dry days over extreme heat/rain |
Let’s say your average move costs $2,000 in summer during the weekend. By moving mid-week in winter, you could realistically save $300–$600, depending on your location, volume, and services.
That’s money you could put toward:
While timing plays a major role in cutting costs, don’t overlook preparation and communication. The best strategy is a mix of good timing and smart execution.
By doing so, you won’t just save money—you’ll save your sanity too.
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