Moving house or office can be one of the most exciting times in your life—but it can also be one of the most stressful, especially if you choose the wrong moving company. Whether you’re moving across the street in Melbourne or relocating to another suburb or state, picking the right movers can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to choosing a moving company in Melbourne that’s trustworthy, affordable, and just right for your needs.
Why Choosing the Right Movers Matters?
Imagine this: you’ve packed your entire house, the moving truck shows up late, the team is careless, your sofa gets scratched, and a box of your favorite kitchenware goes missing. Not fun, right?
That’s why choosing the right moving company matters so much. A professional mover will:
- Arrive on time
- Handle your items with care
- Pack and unpack efficiently (if needed)
- Save you time and stress
- Offer fair prices with no hidden surprises
Let’s look at how you can choose the right movers the easy way.
Step 1: Do Your Research (Google is Your Friend)
Start by searching on Google for moving companies in Melbourne. Type in things like:
- “Best movers in Melbourne”
- “Affordable moving company near me”
- “Reliable movers in [Your Suburb]”
Look at the top 5–10 results. Visit their websites and read about their services. You want to find movers who:
- Offer the exact services you need (local move, interstate move, packing, storage, etc.)
- Have professional-looking websites
- Have clear contact details (phone, email, address)
Pro Tip: Make a shortlist of 3–5 companies to compare later.
Step 2: Read Online Reviews (And Pay Attention to the Bad Ones Too)
Customer reviews are like report cards for moving companies. They help you see what the experience is really like.
Look at Google reviews, Facebook, and local platforms like:
- Oneflare
- HiPages
- Airtasker
- Word of Mouth Online (WOMO)
Check for companies with:
- At least 4 stars or higher
- Consistent positive feedback (not just one good review)
- Praise for things like politeness, punctuality, and care for items
Also, don’t ignore bad reviews. See how the company responds. If they’re rude or blame the customer, that’s a red flag.
Step 3: Know What Services You Need
Not all moves are the same. Before you pick a company, know what you actually need. Ask yourself:
- Do I need help packing or just moving?
- Am I moving across Melbourne or to another state?
- Do I have large items like pianos or pool tables?
- Will I need storage for a few days or weeks?
- Am I moving a home, office, or apartment?
Some companies offer full service (packing, loading, moving, unpacking), while others just move your boxes. Choose a company that fits your needs.
Step 4: Ask Questions Before You Book
Once you’ve made a shortlist, contact the companies. Good moving companies will be happy to answer questions like:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you charge by the hour or offer fixed prices?
- Is there a minimum booking time?
- Do you charge extra for stairs, heavy items, or long distances?
- What happens if something breaks during the move?
- Do your movers bring their own tools and protective gear?
Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. This helps you spot the pros from the amateurs.
Step 5: Compare Quotes—But Don’t Just Choose the Cheapest
Once you’ve spoken to 3–5 companies, ask for detailed quotes. A good quote should include:
- Number of movers
- Size of the truck
- Hourly or fixed rate
- Estimated total cost
- Extra charges (stairs, travel, weekends, etc.)
Beware of very cheap quotes. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Some movers offer low prices upfront, then surprise you with hidden charges later.
Pay attention to value—not just price.
Step 6: Check Equipment and Moving Trucks
The best movers in Melbourne invest in quality trucks and tools. This means:
- Clean, well-maintained trucks
- Trolleys, straps, blankets, and ramps
- Protective gear for fragile or heavy items
- GPS tracking for interstate moves
A company that cares about their equipment is more likely to care about your belongings too.
Step 7: Meet the Movers (If You Can)
If it’s a big move, ask if you can meet the team before the big day, or at least speak to the person who will be in charge. It helps to feel comfortable with the crew handling your things.
You can also ask:
- How long they’ve been doing moves
- Whether they are in-house staff or contractors
- If they’ve done similar moves before
Experienced, polite, and professional movers will always make your day easier.
Step 8: Make Sure They’re Fully Insured
Accidents can happen. Make sure the company has:
- Public liability insurance (if someone gets hurt)
- Goods in transit insurance (if something breaks or goes missing)
- Workers’ compensation for their staff
Ask for proof if you’re unsure. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Step 9: Get Everything in Writing
Before the move, get a written confirmation that includes:
- Date and time of the move
- Pickup and drop-off locations
- Agreed price (hourly or fixed)
- What’s included (truck size, number of movers, services)
- Cancellation or delay policy
This protects both you and the moving company. No surprises.
Bonus Tips for a Smooth Move
- Declutter before the move – Don’t pay to move stuff you don’t need
- Label all boxes clearly – Helps with unpacking
- Keep valuables and documents with you – Just in case
- Pack a first-night box – Include clothes, toiletries, chargers, snacks, etc.
- Notify your utilities and change your address – Set up internet, electricity, and more
Final Thoughts: Take Your Time and Choose Wisely
Choosing the right moving company in Melbourne doesn’t have to be hard. Just follow the steps in this guide:
1. Do your research
2. Read reviews
3. Know what you need
4. Ask the right questions
5. Compare quotes
6. Check insurance
7. Get it in writing
Taking a little time to choose the right movers will save you a lot of stress later. And when moving day comes, you’ll feel confident knowing your belongings are in good hands.
Looking for a Reliable Moving Company in Melbourne?
At Best Ozi Movers, we provide professional, friendly, and affordable moving services across Melbourne and interstate. Whether you’re moving a house, office, or apartment—we’ve got you covered with the right truck, the right team, and the right attitude.
Call us today for a free quote or advice about your move. We’re happy to help you every step of the way.
