Moving costs
The best (and cheapest) time to move house
By the Outer Space Removals teamUpdated November 2026 5 min read
When you move can change the price as much as how much you own. The day of the week, the time of the month and even the time of day all affect the rate, how easy parking is and how smoothly the day runs. Here’s how to pick a date that costs less.
In this guide
The cheapest day of the week
Most removalists charge more on weekends because that’s when most people want to move. Ours is no different: a truck and two movers cost less from Monday to Thursday.
| Day | Our rate (truck + 2 movers) | 3-hour move |
|---|---|---|
| Mon–Thu | $154/hr | $462 |
| Fri–Sat | $165/hr | $495 |
| Sunday (on request) | $184/hr | $552 |
The best time of the month
- The middle of the month is usually easiest to book. Leases and settlements cluster at the end of the month, so the last few days fill first.
- If your lease ends on the 30th, ask whether you can move a few days earlier. Overlapping by a day or two often costs less than the stress of a same-day move-out and clean.
- Settlement days are fixed, so if you’re buying, book the removalist as soon as you have the date.
The best time of day
- Start in the morning. You have the whole day if something takes longer, and you can unpack the essentials before dark.
- Apartment buildings often set moving hours. Book the lift for the start of your time slot, not the middle.
- Avoid peak hour on the drive between homes when you can: on an hourly move, traffic is on the clock.
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Seasons, holidays and events
- Summer is popular, and the heat makes the day harder. Pack a cooler with water and keep the fridge empty and clean.
- Rain doesn’t stop a move, but it slows the carry. Clear a dry spot inside the door for boxes.
- School holidays, Christmas and the new year are busy for families. Book earlier if you need those dates.
- Big events close streets and fill parking. In Sydney think of the City2Surf and New Year’s Eve; in Melbourne, games at the MCG and Marvel Stadium and the Grand Prix around Albert Park.
How far ahead to book
Two to four weeks ahead is enough for most midweek moves. For a Friday, a Saturday or the last days of the month, book four to six weeks ahead. If your date is flexible, tell the removalist: they can often offer a cheaper midweek slot.
Helpful next steps
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From $154/hr, GST included, or one fixed price. No obligation.
