7 Hidden Costs of Moving in Canberra (And How to Avoid Them)
June 25, 2025
Let’s be honest: moving sucks. It doesn’t matter if you're packing up a studio apartment or relocating your entire office—the chaos, the heavy lifting, the time pressure... it all adds up fast. And if you're living in Canberra, you know the weather can turn on you without warning and parking can be a nightmare depending on the suburb. So if you're planning a move and want to avoid nasty surprises, this post is for you.
Here are 7 hidden costs of moving in Canberra and how choosing the best Canberra removalists can save you from them.
A lot of removalist companies charge by the hour. What they don’t always tell you is that travel time to and from your job is often included. So if you’ve booked a team from the other side of town, you’re paying extra just for them to show up.
Avoid it: Hire a local team who knows Canberra’s layout and doesn’t rack up unnecessary drive time. The best Canberra removalists, like Doctor Move, are based right here and won’t burn the clock before they start the job.
Got a steep driveway in Red Hill? Narrow stairwell in Braddon? A lift that only works in 20-minute time slots? These things can delay the move—and if you're paying by the hour, that's money out of your pocket.
Avoid it: Be upfront about tricky access and make sure your movers are prepared. Local removalists who've worked all over Canberra know how to deal with these challenges fast.
Some companies advertise cheap hourly rates, then hit you with a bill for moving your fridge, going up stairs, or carrying boxes down a long driveway. It adds up real quick.
Avoid it: Always ask for a breakdown of potential extra charges. Good companies are transparent from the start.
One gouge in your hallway wall or a scratched-up coffee table can cost more than you think. Some budget movers don’t use proper padding, don’t protect doorways, and don’t take responsibility if something goes wrong.
Avoid it: Choose movers who come with experience, insurance, and the right gear—trolleys, blankets, and protectors. This is where paying a little more upfront saves you down the track.
Ever seen a moving team that stands around scratching their heads, wondering what to do next? That’s what happens when the company doesn’t plan properly. And if you're paying hourly, it's your money they're wasting.
Avoid it: Look for movers who offer pre-move check-ins or inspections and come with a clear plan. At Doctor Move, we scope things out ahead of time so move day runs smoothly.
You think you’re ready to go, then realise you need more boxes, bubble wrap, tape... and suddenly you're at Bunnings spending $100 you didn’t budget for.
Avoid it: A good moving company can provide packing materials ahead of time—and often at better prices. Better yet, many offer full or partial packing services.
Maybe your settlement gets delayed or your new office isn’t ready. Suddenly, you need to store everything for a few days (or weeks) and scramble to find space.
Avoid it: Ask your removalist if they offer storage solutions. The best ones do—and they make the handover seamless.
Okay, not technically a financial cost, but burnout from a bad move can affect your work, your sleep, and your sanity. When things don’t go smoothly, it trickles into the rest of your life.
Avoid it: Book early, hire local experts, and work with people who actually care. Doctor Move has helped hundreds of Canberra locals move without losing their minds.
A few smart decisions can protect you from the most common (and costly) mistakes Canberra movers make. Choose a removalist who knows the city, doesn’t sneak in fees, and values your time.
If you’re after one of the best Canberra removalists, get in touch with Doctor Move. We’re local, experienced, and here to make your next move your easiest one yet.
