In an effort to save money, many Australians consider tackling their next move themselves – borrowing a ute, hiring a truck, or enlisting a few friends. At first glance, a DIY move could seem cheaper. But once the real costs start adding up, many people discover it can be far more expensive (and stressful) than expected.
Before you grab the packing tape and start lifting heavy furniture, it’s worth understanding the hidden costs of a DIY move and why choosing an AFRA-accredited removalist is often the smarter and more cost-effective choice.
1. Truck Hire Fees Add Up Quickly
Truck hire might seem cheap at first, but the real-world costs often include:
- Fuel (especially for large trucks)
- Kilometre limits and excess charges
- Insurance add-ons
- Extra-day fees if the move takes longer than expected
- Equipment hire such as trolleys, straps, or blankets
Professional removalists already have purpose-built vehicles and all the equipment needed, no add-ons required.
2. Lost Time = Lost Money
A DIY move usually takes far longer than a professional one. Most people underestimate:
- How long it takes to pack efficiently
- How many trips are needed
- How much slower untrained people load and unload
- The time required to clean up afterwards
Instead of spending days or even a full weekend moving, a professional removalist can often finish the job in a single day.
Your time has value, don’t spend it struggling with furniture instead of focusing on work, family, or settling into your new home.
3. Risk of Damaging Furniture (or Yourself)
Improper lifting or moving heavy items without the right equipment can lead to:
- Back injuries
- Damaged walls and doors
- Scratched or broken furniture
- Dropped appliances
AFRA removalists receive proper training in safe handling techniques, ensuring your belongings, and your body stay protected.
A single broken TV or damaged dining table can cost more to replace than hiring a professional removalist in the first place.
4. Insurance Gaps Can Be Costly
When you move yourself, many people assume their home insurance covers any damage. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Most policies do not cover goods in transit unless moved by a qualified, insured professional.
AFRA members can explain your insurance options clearly and offer additional coverage for increased financial protection of your items during the entire moving process.
5. Stress Has a Cost Too
DIY moves are often chaotic boxes that aren’t labelled, fragile items are rushed, friends cancel last-minute, or the truck doesn’t fit everything. The emotional and mental toll can be huge.
Hiring an AFRA removalist means:
- Professional packing
- A planned, organised move
- Less back-and-forth
- A smoother moving day from start to finish
Instead of dealing with stress, you can focus on settling into your new space.
The Bottom Line
A DIY move might look cheaper on paper, but once the hidden costs, risks, and time commitment are considered, hiring a professional AFRA-accredited removalist is the better investment.
You save money. You save time. And you gain peace of mind knowing your belongings are handled by trained, insured experts.