Best Time of Year to Move in Australia: A Complete Guide

Moving house is a monumental task. It consistently ranks as one of life’s most stressful events, right up there with starting a new job or planning a wedding. Between the packing, the admin, and the emotional upheaval, the last thing you want is to be battling scorching heatwaves, torrential rain, or peak-season prices. This is why when you move is just as important as how you move.

Choosing the right time of year for your relocation can save you money, reduce stress, and ensure a much smoother transition into your new home. But in a country as vast and climatically diverse as Australia, what works for a move in Hobart might be a nightmare in Darwin. This guide will break down everything you need to know to find the perfect moving date for your circumstances.

What is the best time of year to move in Australia?

The best time of year to move in Australia is typically during the shoulder seasons of autumn (March–May) and spring (September–November). These periods offer pleasant weather, lower demand for professional removalists, and more flexible booking options, striking an ideal balance between cost-effectiveness and comfort for a smoother move.

Key Factors That Affect the Best Time to Move

Before we dive into the seasons, it’s crucial to understand the main variables at play. The “best” time is subjective and depends on what you prioritise.

• Weather: Australia’s climate is no joke. Moving heavy furniture in 40°C summer heat is not only uncomfortable but also dangerous. Likewise, trying to keep your belongings dry during a winter downpour in Perth presents its own challenges. The weather directly impacts the physical difficulty and risk of your move.
• Costs: Like any service-based industry, the removals business has peak and off-peak seasons. The moving season in Australia typically aligns with summer and school holidays, driving prices up. If you’re looking for the cheapest time to move in Australia, you’ll want to avoid these periods.
• School Calendar: For families, this is often the deciding factor. Moving during school holidays can minimise disruption to your children’s education. However, this convenience comes at a premium, as it’s a high-demand period for removalists across the country.
• Real Estate Market: The property market has its own rhythm. Spring is traditionally a busy selling season, meaning more people are buying and subsequently moving. This can lead to increased competition for removalist services. Rental lease cycles, which often end at the start or end of the month, also create predictable busy periods.
• Personal Circumstances: Your own life is the most important factor. A new job offer, a change in family situation, or the end of a lease might mean you don’t have the luxury of choice. The goal is to find the best possible option within your unique timeline.

Moving in Summer (December – February)

Summer in Australia is synonymous with sun, holidays, and the festive season. It’s also the undisputed peak moving season in Australia. While it’s the most popular time to move, it comes with a distinct set of challenges.

The Pros of Moving in Summer

• Longer Daylight Hours: More daylight means you and your removalists have a longer window to get the job done without rushing against the sunset. This can be particularly useful for large or complex moves.
• Ideal for Families: The long summer school holidays provide the perfect opportunity to move without disrupting the school year. It gives kids time to settle in and explore their new neighbourhood before heading back to the classroom.
• The “New Year, New Start” Vibe: Many people relish the idea of starting a new year in a new home. It aligns with a sense of renewal and is often when new job contracts begin.
• Dry Weather (in most places): While hot, much of southern Australia experiences drier weather in summer, reducing the risk of your possessions getting water-damaged during transit.

The Cons of Moving in Summer

• Extreme Heat: This is the biggest drawback. Carrying boxes and furniture in temperatures soaring above 30°C or even 40°C is physically draining and poses health risks like heatstroke and dehydration for you and your moving crew. It can also damage sensitive items like electronics, artwork, and wooden furniture if left in a hot truck for too long.
• Peak Prices: Basic supply and demand. Because everyone wants to move in the summer, this is the most expensive time to hire removalists in Australia. Prices can be 20-30% higher than in the off-season, and booking well in advance is essential.
• Limited Availability: The best removalist companies are often booked out months in advance for December and January. You’ll have fewer choices and may have to settle for a less reputable or more expensive company if you leave it too late.
• Holiday Shutdowns: The period between Christmas and New Year can be tricky. Many businesses, including utility companies and property management agencies, operate on skeleton staff or close completely, which can delay connection services or key handovers.

Verdict: Summer is convenient for families, but it is the most expensive and physically demanding season to move. If you must move in summer, book far in advance and plan for an early morning start to beat the worst of the heat.

Moving in Autumn (March – May)

Many professional removalists will tell you that autumn is the best season to move house in Australia. It offers a welcome reprieve from the summer heat and the pre-winter rush, creating a “Goldilocks” scenario for moving.

The Pros of Moving in Autumn

• Pleasant Weather: The oppressive heat of summer subsides, replaced by mild, stable temperatures across most of the country. This makes the physical labour of moving far more comfortable and safer. The days are still reasonably long, and there’s generally less rainfall than in winter.
• Lower Prices: With the summer rush over, demand for removalists drops significantly. This leads to more competitive pricing and better availability. You’ll find it easier to book your preferred company on your desired date.
• More Flexibility: Removalists are less stressed and have more flexible schedules, which can be beneficial if you need to make last-minute changes.
• Post-Holiday Calm: The frenzy of the Christmas and New Year period is over. Utility companies, banks, and other essential services are back to normal operating hours, making the administrative side of your move much smoother.

The Cons of Moving in Autumn

• Public Holidays: Autumn is dotted with public holidays, most notably Easter and Anzac Day. Moving on or around these long weekends can be more expensive, and removalists may be unavailable. It’s best to avoid these specific dates.
• Shorter Days: As autumn progresses, the days get shorter. A move in late May will have significantly less daylight than a move in early March, so you’ll need to plan your timing carefully to avoid working in the dark.
• School Term Time: For families with school-aged children, moving during the term can be disruptive. It may require pulling kids out of school for a few days.

Verdict: Autumn is arguably the best time of year to move in Australia. The combination of comfortable weather and lower costs creates the ideal conditions for a low-stress relocation.

Moving in Winter (June – August)

Winter is officially Australia’s moving off-season. The cold weather, rain, and short days deter many people, but for the budget-conscious mover, this season presents a golden opportunity.

The Pros of Moving in Winter

• The Absolute Cheapest Time to Move: This is the headline benefit. With demand at its lowest, removalist companies offer their best rates to keep their trucks on the road. If your top priority is saving money, winter is your season. You’ll find it’s the cheapest time to move in Australia.
• Maximum Availability: You’ll have your pick of the best removalists, even at short notice. You can essentially name your date (as long as it’s a weekday) and be confident of securing a booking.
• No Risk of Overheating: The physical work of moving is much easier without the sun beating down on you. You can work up a sweat without risking heatstroke.
• Quieter Real Estate Market: Fewer people are buying and selling, which can mean less pressure during property negotiations and settlements.

The Cons of Moving in Winter

• Unpredictable Weather: Rain, wind, and even snow in some regions (like Tasmania, Victoria, and parts of NSW) can make moving miserable. Protecting your furniture, electronics, and boxes from water damage becomes a top priority. Slippery paths and driveways also increase the risk of accidents.
• Shortest Daylight Hours: The sun sets early, drastically reducing your working window. A delayed start could mean you’re still unloading the truck in the cold and dark, which is both difficult and unsafe.
• Heating Your New Home: Moving into a cold, empty house isn’t very welcoming. You’ll need to get the heating connected and working immediately, which can be an added stress on moving day.
• School Term Disruption: Like autumn, moving in winter means navigating the school term, which can be a challenge for families.

Verdict: If your budget is the primary concern, winter is unbeatable. Just be prepared to battle the elements and plan your day meticulously around the limited daylight.

Moving in Spring (September – November)

Spring mirrors autumn in many ways, offering another excellent window for a smooth and pleasant move. As the country thaws out from winter, the weather becomes beautiful, and the energy is positive.

The Pros of Moving in Spring

• Beautiful Weather: Spring brings mild, sunny days perfect for moving. It’s warm enough to be comfortable but not so hot that the work becomes exhausting.
• Good Availability and Pricing: While demand starts to pick up as summer approaches, spring is still considered a shoulder season. You can still find reasonable prices and good availability, especially if you book in early spring (September/October).
• Longer Daylight Hours: The days are getting longer, giving you more time to complete your move without the pressure of a looming sunset.
• A Fresh Start: Moving in spring allows you to get settled and enjoy your new home and garden just as everything is coming into bloom. It’s a wonderful time to explore a new neighbourhood.

The Cons of Moving in Spring

• The “For Sale” Frenzy: Spring is the busiest season for the real estate market. An influx of properties on the market means more people are buying and planning to move, so competition for removalists starts to ramp up towards the end of the season.
• Allergies: For hay fever sufferers, moving in spring can be an ordeal. High pollen counts can make a physically demanding day even more uncomfortable.
• Unpredictable Rain: Spring weather can be fickle, with unexpected showers, particularly in southern states. It’s always wise to have a backup plan for protecting your belongings. You can check the latest forecasts on the Bureau of Meteorology website.

Verdict: Spring is another fantastic option, running a close second to autumn as the best season to move house in Australia. To get the best of both worlds (good weather and lower prices), aim for early-to-mid spring.

Comparison Table: Moving Seasons in Australia

Other Timing Considerations to Save Time and Money

Beyond the season, the specific day you choose can have a big impact.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

• Weekdays (Monday–Thursday): This is the sweet spot for savings. Demand is lower, so removalists often offer better rates. You’ll also find it easier to deal with banks, utility providers, and real estate agents, as they are open and fully staffed. The downside is that you may need to take time off work.
• Weekends (Friday–Sunday): Weekends, especially Saturdays, are the most popular days to move. This means they are the most expensive and book out the fastest. Fridays are also very popular as people try to get a long weekend to unpack.

Start of the Month vs. Mid-Month

Most rental leases expire at the end of the month, creating a huge rush of people moving on the last few days and the first day of the new month. If you can, schedule your move for the middle of the month (e.g., the 10th to the 20th). Demand is significantly lower, and you’ll find better rates and more flexible scheduling.

Public Holidays

Avoid moving on a public holiday at all costs. Most removalists will charge a significant surcharge, if they are even available. Furthermore, almost all supporting services (banks, real estate agents, utility companies) will be closed, which could leave you in a lurch.

Expert Tips to Choose Your Perfect Moving Time

1. Book in Advance (Especially in Peak Season): If you have no choice but to move in summer or during school holidays, book your removalists at least 6-8 weeks in advance. For off-peak moves, 3-4 weeks is usually sufficient.
2. Be Flexible for the Best Price: If you’re looking for the cheapest time to move in Australia, tell your removalist company you have flexible dates. They may be able to offer you a “backloading” rate or fit you in on a quieter day at a discounted price.
3. Plan Around the Weather: A week before your move, start monitoring the weather forecast closely. This will allow you to prepare for heat (have water, sunscreen, and eskies ready) or rain (have tarps, old towels, and protective plastic for furniture).
4. Organise Your Utilities Ahead of Time: Don’t leave your electricity, gas, and internet connections to the last minute. Arrange for them to be connected at your new home the day before you move in. The last thing you want is to arrive in the dark with no power. Need help staying on track? Check out our Ultimate Moving House Checklist.

Conclusion: Your Best Move is a Well-Planned Move

While autumn and spring stand out as the best times of year to move in Australia, offering a perfect blend of good weather and affordability, the ideal time ultimately depends on your personal priorities.

If your budget is tight and you don’t mind braving the cold, a mid-week, mid-month winter move will be your most cost-effective option. If you’re tied to the school calendar, a summer move might be unavoidable—just be sure to plan meticulously and book well in advance to mitigate the heat and high costs.

Whatever season you choose, the key to a successful move is preparation. By understanding the pros and cons of timing your relocation, you can make an informed decision that saves you money, time, and a whole lot of stress.

Ready to plan your move? Don’t leave it to chance. Contact a team of trusted, professional removalists who can help you every step of the way.