Moving day
How long does a house move take?
By the Outer Space Removals teamUpdated November 2026 5 min read
On an hourly move, time is money, so it helps to know roughly how long yours will take. Here are the times we see most often by home size, what makes a move take longer, and what you can do to make it shorter.
In this guide
Typical times by home size
These are the time ranges we see most for local moves with a 4.5-tonne truck and two movers. Where you land depends on how much you have and how easy the access is.
| Home | Typical time | Truckloads | Weekday cost ($154/hr) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A Few Items or Studio | 2–4 hours | Usually 1 | $308–$616 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | 3–6 hours | Usually 1 | $462–$924 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | 5–9 hours | May need 2 truckloads | $770–$1,386 |
| 3+ Bedroom Home | 8–11+ hours | Likely 2–3 trips | $1,232–$1,694+ |
What makes a move take longer
- Stairs and walk-ups: every flight is climbed on every trip.
- A long walk from the truck to the door, when there’s no parking close by.
- Lifts that aren’t booked, or shared lifts with long waits.
- Things not packed, beds not stripped and appliances still connected.
- Bulky or delicate furniture that needs taking apart or extra wrapping.
- The drive between homes, especially in peak hour.
Want your exact price?
From $154/hr, GST included Not happy? You only pay cost price
How to make it faster
- Be completely packed, with boxes stacked by the door.
- Book the lift and loading dock, and hold a parking spot close to the entrance.
- Take beds and tables apart the night before if you’re comfortable doing it.
- Get rid of what you don’t need before the move.
- Use crates or full, strong boxes that stack quickly.
Want certainty instead?
If you’d rather not watch the clock, ask for a fixed price. It’s based on your list of items and the access at both homes, and it doesn’t change if the day runs long.
Helpful next steps
Get a free quote for your move
From $154/hr, GST included, or one fixed price. No obligation.
