One of the first questions people ask when they're thinking about moving to Australia is: how much is this actually going to cost? The honest answer is that it depends on your situation — the size of your home, what you're shipping, where you're going, and what services you need.
But here's what we can tell you: the moves that go smoothly are the ones where people budget for everything upfront, not just the obvious stuff. This guide walks you through every cost category so there are no surprises when you get your quote.
The Moving Costs — What Easy as™ Covers
Shipping — LCL or FCL
The biggest variable in your move cost is how much you're shipping. At Easy as™, we offer two container options — a shared container (LCL) for smaller moves, and a full container (FCL) for larger homes. The more you ship, the more it costs — which is why decluttering before your move is always a smart financial decision.
Professional Packing and Wrapping
At Easy as™, we pack everything professionally using industry-grade materials. This isn't just about protecting your belongings — it's also a requirement for your marine insurance to be valid. Our packing service is included as part of your move, so there are no surprises on collection day.
Customs Documentation
Preparing your B534 and supporting paperwork is part of what we do. This is included in your quote — no hidden documentation fees.
Delivery to Your Door
From the Australian port to your new front door, delivery is part of your Easy as™ service. Door to door means exactly that.
The Costs to Plan For Separately
Marine Insurance
Protecting your belongings during transit is strongly recommended. The cost depends on the declared value of your goods and the level of cover you choose. At Easy as™, we work with our insurance broker on your behalf and present you with a clear quote based on your actual inventory. Read more in our guide — Protecting Your Belongings.
Biosecurity Treatment Fees
If any items in your shipment require inspection or treatment by DAFF on arrival in Australia, those costs are your responsibility. The best way to avoid them is thorough cleaning before collection day and accurate declaration on your B534. At Easy as™, we help you prepare so this is rarely an issue.
Storage
If there's a gap between your collection day and your move-in date in Australia, you may need short-term storage on either side of the Tasman. This is something we can arrange — just let us know your timeline when you book.
The Arrival Costs — Budget for These Too
Temporary Accommodation
Unless you're moving straight into a permanent home, budget for temporary accommodation in Australia while you wait for your shipment to arrive and get settled. Hotels, serviced apartments, and short-term rentals are all options depending on your budget and timeline.
Bond and Rent in Advance
If you're renting in Australia, landlords typically require a bond of four weeks' rent plus rent paid in advance. In competitive rental markets like Sydney and Melbourne, having this ready from day one is essential.
Setting Up Your New Home
Even if you're shipping your furniture, there will be things you need to buy — cleaning supplies, pantry staples, linen, and items you chose not to ship. Budget a reasonable amount for this settling-in period.
The Cash Buffer — Don't Skip This
This is the one cost people most commonly underestimate. There will always be unexpected expenses in the first weeks of a new life — a gap between pay cycles, a cost you didn't anticipate, or simply the reality of two lives running simultaneously while you transition.
A solid cash buffer gives you breathing room. How much you need depends on your family size, lifestyle, and how quickly you expect to be earning in Australia — but the general advice is to have more than you think you'll need.
Get Your Quote — Then Budget Around It
The best starting point is a clear, itemised quote from Easy as™. Once you know your shipping cost, you can build your full moving budget around it with confidence.
Ready to know your numbers? Get in touch with us today.