Best Moving Company in Australia – Guide to Hassle Free International Relocation
Best Moving Company in Australia – Your Complete Guide to Hassle -Free International Relocation
Relocating to a new country is one of life’s biggest transitions. Whether you’re moving for work, family, education, or a lifestyle change, choosing the best moving company in Australia is critical to ensuring a smooth, stress-free move.
From packing and shipping to customs clearance and delivery, international relocation involves a range of complex logistics. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know when moving abroad from Australia including how to evaluate international moving companies, what to expect from relocation services, and how to find trusted movers near you.
Why You Need the Best Moving Company in Australia for International Moves
An international move isn’t just a bigger version of a local move it requires far more expertise and coordination. Customs requirements, shipping laws, packing for ocean freight, and delivery timeframes all play a role.
Hiring the best international movers and packers ensures that:
- Your belongings are packed securely for long-distance travel
- Customs paperwork is handled correctly
- Your goods arrive safely and on time
- Insurance and tracking options are available
With rising global mobility, Australia has become a hub for international relocation services, with specialized companies offering tailored solutions for families, professionals, and students alike.
What to Look for in International Moving Companies Australia
Not all international moving companies in Australia offer the same level of service. When researching options, ask the following:
1. Are They AFRA Accredited?
The Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA) regulates the moving industry. AFRA-accredited companies follow high standards in packing, transport, and customer service.
Visit AFRA to view a list of certified international movers.
2. Do They Offer Door-to-Door Services?
The best movers handle the full journey:
- Packing at your current location
- Shipping via air or sea freight
- Delivery and unpacking at your destination
This eliminates the stress of coordinating multiple vendors.
3. Are Customs and Insurance Included?
International relocation requires detailed customs documentation. Reputable movers guide you through:
- Import/export regulations
- Item declarations
- Quarantine inspections
- Transit insurance options
4. Do They Provide Storage Options?
Many overseas moving companies offer secure storage facilities ideal if your new residence isn’t immediately ready.
Top Services Offered by International Movers Near Me
Looking for international movers near you? Here’s what full-service relocation companies typically provide:
Pre-Move Planning
A consultant assesses your inventory and provides a detailed quote and timeline.
Professional Packing
Using international-grade materials, they pack delicate and bulky items with care, including furniture, electronics, and artwork.
Transport Logistics
You’ll choose between air freight (faster, more expensive) or sea freight (slower, more economical).
Customs Clearance
They manage all documentation to prevent delays or fines at the border.
Delivery & Unpacking
Door-to-door delivery with optional unpacking and debris removal.
Insurance Coverage
Transit insurance protects against loss, theft, or damage during international shipping.
How to Choose the Right International Relocation Services
Whether you’re relocating to the UK, USA, Europe, or Asia, choosing the right international relocation services involves more than comparing prices.
Research and Compare:
- Check reviews on ProductReview.com.au
- Ask for referrals in expat or relocation Facebook groups
- Request quotes from at least 3 companies
- Evaluate responsiveness and clarity in communication
Questions to Ask:
- Do you offer a fixed quote or hourly rate?
- What countries or cities do you specialize in?
- How long will the shipping process take?
- Are there any items you won’t ship?
- What happens if my goods are delayed?
Popular Routes for Australians Moving Abroad
Some of the most common destinations Australians relocate to include:
- 🇬🇧 United Kingdom
- 🇺🇸 United States
- 🇨🇦 Canada
- 🇳🇿 New Zealand
- 🇸🇬 Singapore
- 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates
Companies with experience in these regions are more likely to offer tailored overseas relocation services that meet your specific customs and logistical needs.
Cost of Overseas Moving Company Services
Hiring an overseas moving company can cost anywhere from AUD $3,000 to $15,000+, depending on:
- Distance to destination
- Volume of goods (measured in cubic meters)
- Type of transport (air vs. sea freight)
- Additional services (packing, insurance, storage)
Example Pricing:
| Origin | Destination | Approx. Cost (3-Bed Home) |
| Sydney | London | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Melbourne | Los Angeles | $7,500 – $11,000 |
| Brisbane | Auckland | $3,000 – $5,000 |
Tip: Use the World Freight Rates calculator to estimate your international moving cost.
Relocation Services Australia: Additional Services to Expect
Beyond transporting your belongings, many relocation services in Australia also offer:
Home Search Assistance
Help with rental or property search in the new country.
School Search
Finding appropriate schools for expat children.
Visa & Immigration Support
Assistance with visa applications, renewals, and compliance.
Tax and Financial Advice
Managing cross-border finances and taxes.
These services are especially useful for corporate or diplomatic relocations.
Moving Abroad from Australia: Step-by-Step Timeline
3 Months Before
- Hire a certified moving company
- Declutter and sell/donate unwanted items
- Start visa or permit process
2 Months Before
- Schedule in-home survey and confirm booking
- Begin document gathering (passport, lease, insurance)
- Notify your landlord or sell property
1 Month Before
- Begin packing non-essentials
- Notify schools, employers, utility companies
- Arrange final cleaning and pet relocation
1 Week Before
- Pack essentials in a suitcase (clothes, documents)
- Confirm delivery dates and customs paperwork
- Hand over keys and begin your new adventure!
International Movers and Packers: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Full-service convenience
- Proper customs handling
- Reduced risk of damage
- Insurance and tracking available
Cons:
- Higher cost than DIY options
- Long shipping time (especially sea freight)
- Customs delays can occur
Verdict: For most families and professionals, hiring international movers and packers offers peace of mind that far outweighs the cost.
Best International Moving Companies Australia (Top Picks)
Here are some of the top-rated international moving companies based in Australia:
1. Grace Removals
- AFRA-accredited
- Over 100 years in the business
- Offers pet relocation, storage, and fine art transport
2. Allied Moving Services
- Global network in over 40 countries
- Virtual home survey available
- Excellent corporate relocation services
3. Chess Moving
- Locations in every major Australian city
- Affordable options for small shipments
- Customs brokerage included
4. WridgWays
- One of the oldest removal companies in Australia
- Extensive experience with USA, UK, NZ relocations
- Partnered with Santa Fe Relocation
FAQs About Moving Overseas from Australia
Q: How long does international shipping take?
A: Sea freight can take 6–12 weeks depending on the destination. Air freight usually arrives in 7–14 days.
Q: Is insurance mandatory?
A: It’s not legally required, but highly recommended due to the risk of loss, theft, or damage.
Q: Can I ship my car overseas?
A: Yes, but vehicle import laws vary by country. Some countries have strict emission standards or prohibit certain car types.
Q: Are there things I can’t take with me?
A: Prohibited items often include:
- Perishable food
- Live plants and seeds
- Aerosols or flammable liquids
- Firearms without licenses
Always check your destination country’s regulations.
Conclusion | Choose the Best Moving Company in Australia for Peace of Mind
Moving overseas is exciting but it’s also full of potential headaches if not managed properly. Choosing the best moving company in Australia ensures your journey starts on the right foot.
With expert international movers, tailored relocation services, and thorough preparation, you can relocate with confidence, comfort, and peace of mind. Whether you’re shipping a few boxes or an entire household, the right partner can make all the difference.
