Choosing the right removalist at the right time can make a huge difference to your moving experience. Whether you’re moving home, relocating a business or downsizing, timing plays a key role in cost, availability and overall ease. While many people focus on selecting the right company, understanding when to book them is just as important.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best times to hire a removalist and how smart timing can make your move smoother and more affordable.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Peak Periods
Like most services, the removalist industry has peak seasons and off-peak times. The busiest times to move are during the summer months, public holidays and the end of the month. These periods often book out quickly and come with higher rates due to demand.
If you can avoid these peak times, you’ll have more options when it comes to choosing a removalist and could save money too. Off-peak periods—such as mid-week days during the school term or colder months—tend to offer more flexible schedules and competitive pricing.
Booking your move in advance, especially if you’re moving during a busy time of year, can secure your preferred date and give you more control over the process.
Mid-Week Moves Offer More Flexibility
Most people prefer to move on Fridays or weekends so they have time to settle in without missing work. However, this demand makes weekends more expensive and harder to book. Moving mid-week—especially on a Tuesday or Wednesday—can be a great alternative.
Removalist companies are often more flexible on these days, which may allow you to choose a time slot that suits your schedule. You’re also more likely to get extra support or attention from the crew, as they aren’t juggling multiple moves in one day.
If you can take a day or two off work, you may find the mid-week move less stressful and more cost-effective.
Consider School and Work Calendars
If you have children, school holidays can seem like the perfect time to move. Kids are home, and you don’t have to interrupt their schooling. However, this is also when many families choose to move, which drives up demand and pricing.
If you want to avoid peak family moving periods, try to move just before or after the holidays. Some families also choose to move during term with minimal disruption by scheduling the move for a Friday and settling over the weekend.
For professionals, coordinating your move with your work schedule is essential. Planning for a quieter time at work or taking leave will allow you to focus on the move and reduce stress. The more time you can devote to the transition, the better your overall experience.
Factor in Settlement Dates and Lease Expirations
For homeowners, the settlement date is a major factor in choosing when to hire a removalist. Aim to align your move with the handover of your new property. Some people move a day or two after settlement to give themselves time to clean or make minor repairs before bringing in their belongings.
For renters, timing your move with the end of a lease is crucial to avoid paying double rent or breaching a contract. Know the date your current lease ends and work backwards from there to schedule a removalist in time.
If you’re in between properties, consider using short-term storage solutions offered by some removalist companies. This allows you to move out on time and store your items securely until the new home is ready.
Give Yourself Enough Time to Prepare
One of the biggest mistakes people make when moving is leaving everything to the last minute. Hiring a removalist too late may mean you have to settle for your second or third choice—or face higher fees.
Give yourself a buffer of at least two to four weeks when booking your removalist, depending on the time of year. This ensures you’re not rushed, have time to pack and can manage your move with less pressure.
If you’re downsizing or have complex needs like moving fragile or bulky items, more preparation time is recommended. It’s also worth asking the removalist about packing and unpacking services to help streamline the process.
The Right Removalist at the Right Time
Hiring a removalist isn’t just about moving boxes from one place to another. It’s about creating a stress-free, organised experience during one of life’s most disruptive events. By choosing the right time to book and move, you’ll gain better control over the process, avoid high demand periods and possibly save money.
Every move is unique, so think about your own schedule, budget and circumstances. Consider what works best for your family, work commitments and lifestyle. Timing your move with these factors in mind helps ensure everything goes smoothly from the first box packed to the last item unpacked.
To get the best value and service, speak with a trusted removalist early. Planning ahead gives you access to better choices and helps you settle into your new space with minimal stress.
