The Ultimate Guide: Finding the Best Time to Move House in Perth
Moving house in Perth is an exciting new chapter. Whether you’re shifting to a beachside suburb like Cottesloe, a vibrant inner-city spot like Leederville, or a family-friendly area like Willeton, the timing of your move can make a world of difference. It can impact everything from your budget and stress levels to the sheer physical effort required.
So, when is the best time to move house in Perth?
The short answer is that it depends on your priorities: cost, convenience, or weather. But the best answer is a bit more nuanced. This comprehensive guide will break down the pros and cons of every season, day of the week, and time of the month, helping you choose the perfect window for a smooth and stress-free move.
The Big Picture: A Seasonal Breakdown for Moving in Perth
Perth’s distinct seasons play the biggest role in planning your move. From the scorching summer sun to the crisp winter mornings, each period offers a unique set of challenges and benefits.
Moving in Autumn (March – May): The Sweet Spot
Many Perth locals and removalists agree that autumn is the gold standard for moving. The intense heat of summer has subsided, and the winter rains are yet to arrive.
- Pros:
- Perfect Weather: You’ll enjoy mild, sunny days with average temperatures sitting comfortably in the low-to-mid 20s. This makes lifting boxes and moving furniture significantly less strenuous and safer for your moving crew.
- Lower Demand: The frantic peak season of summer is over, meaning it’s easier to book a reputable removalist company at a more reasonable price.
- Stable Conditions: There’s less risk of extreme weather events like heatwaves or major storms disrupting your moving day.
- Cons:
- Public Holidays: Be mindful of Easter and ANZAC Day. Moving on or around these holidays can be more expensive, and some services may be closed.
Verdict: If you can align your move with autumn, particularly in March or April, you’re setting yourself up for the most pleasant experience possible.
Moving in Winter (June – August): The Budget-Friendly Option
If your primary concern is saving money, winter is your best friend. This is the off-peak season for the moving industry in Perth.
- Pros:
- Lowest Prices: With lower demand, removalists often offer their most competitive rates and special deals during winter. You’ll have more bargaining power and a wider choice of available dates.
- More Flexibility: It’s much easier to book your preferred moving company, even at short notice.
- No Heat Stress: You won’t have to worry about overheating or sunstroke, making the physical work far more manageable.
- Cons:
- The Rain: Perth winters can be wet and unpredictable. Protecting your furniture and boxes from downpours is essential. A good removalist will have this covered, but it’s an added logistical challenge.
- Shorter Days: Less daylight means you have a smaller window to get everything done before it gets dark.
Verdict: For the budget-conscious mover who doesn’t mind a potential shower, winter offers fantastic value and flexibility.
Moving in Spring (September – November): The Popular Choice
As the city bursts into colour with wildflowers, many people get the urge for a fresh start. Spring is a beautiful time to move, but its popularity is on the rise.
- Pros:
- Pleasant Weather: Similar to autumn, the weather is generally mild and enjoyable, perfect for a day of physical activity.
- Ideal for Selling: If you’re selling your old home, the garden will be looking its best, which can boost curb appeal.
- A Fresh Start: The energetic feel of spring can make the entire moving process feel more positive and exciting.
- Cons:
- Rising Demand: As the weather improves, demand for removalists begins to climb, and so do the prices. You’ll need to book further in advance.
- The Fremantle Doctor: Perth’s famous afternoon sea breeze can be particularly strong in spring, making it tricky to move large, flat items like mattresses or panels.
Verdict: Spring is a fantastic alternative to autumn, but be prepared to book early and pay slightly more than you would in winter.
Moving in Summer (December – February): The Hottest and Busiest Time
Summer is, without a doubt, the most challenging and expensive time to move house in Perth. It’s the peak season, driven by the long school holidays.
- Pros:
- School Holidays: For families, this is the biggest draw. You can move without disrupting the school year, and older kids may be able to help.
- Long Daylight Hours: You have plenty of time to get the move done, from early morning until late evening.
- Cons:
- Extreme Heat: Perth summers are famously hot, with temperatures regularly soaring above 35°C. This is not only uncomfortable but can be dangerous for you and your movers. It can also damage sensitive items like electronics and wooden furniture if left in a hot truck for too long.
- Peak Prices: This is the busiest time of year for removalists. Expect to pay a significant premium, and you’ll need to book months in advance to secure a good company.
- High Competition: Everyone else is moving too, making everything from booking a ute to changing utilities more stressful.
Verdict: Unless you are absolutely tied to the school holiday schedule, it is highly recommended to avoid moving in the Perth summer if possible.
Beyond the Seasons: Nailing the Exact Timing
Choosing the right season is only half the battle. To truly optimise your move for cost and convenience, consider the specific time of the month and week.
Best Day of the Week to Move in Perth
- Best (Tuesday – Thursday): Moving mid-week is the smartest choice. Removalist rates are typically lower, and there’s less traffic on the roads. You’ll also find it easier to get things like utility connections and key handovers sorted during standard business hours.
- Okay (Friday): Friday is a very popular day to move, as it gives people the weekend to unpack. Because of this, it’s often more expensive, and removalists get booked out quickly.
- Worst (Saturday & Sunday): The weekend is the most expensive time to move. Many companies charge penalty rates, and availability is scarce. Furthermore, if you run into any issues (e.g., a problem with your electricity connection), it’s much harder to get it resolved over the weekend.
Mid-Month vs. End-of-Month Moving
The vast majority of rental leases end on the last day of the month. This creates a massive surge in demand for removalists during the last week of the month and the first few days of the next.
To avoid this rush and save money, schedule your move for the middle of the month (roughly between the 8th and the 22nd). You will find that removalists have much more availability and are often able to offer better rates.
The Verdict: The Absolute Best Time to Move House in Perth
So, let’s put it all together.
- For the Best Overall Experience (Weather, Cost & Availability):
A weekday (Tuesday-Thursday) in the middle of March or April. - For the Lowest Possible Cost:
A weekday (Tuesday-Thursday) in the middle of June, July, or August.
Final Tips for a Smooth Perth Move
No matter when you decide to move, these tips will help make the process easier:
- Book Early: As soon as you have your moving date, book your removalist. The best companies in Perth get booked up weeks, or even months, in advance, especially during peak periods.
- Declutter First: Don’t pay to move things you don’t need. Sell, donate, or discard items before you start packing.
- Stay Hydrated: This is critical, especially if you’re moving in the warmer months. Keep plenty of water on hand for yourself and your moving team.
- Notify Your Utilities: Arrange for your electricity, gas, internet, and water to be disconnected at your old address and connected at your new one. Do this well in advance.
- Pack a “First Night” Box: Include essentials like toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, phone chargers, toilet paper, snacks, and the kettle. Keep this box with you in your car so it’s the first thing you can access.
Choosing the right time to move in Perth can transform a potentially stressful ordeal into an exciting and manageable adventure. By planning around the seasons and picking your date wisely, you can save money, avoid the worst of the weather, and start life in your new home on the right foot.