If you're preparing for a move in Melbourne and wondering, "Should I pack myself or let the removalists do it?" — you're not alone. This is one of the most common dilemmas for first-time movers, budget-conscious households, and even families with busy schedules...
| Criteria | DIY Packing | Professional Packing Services |
|---|---|---|
| Time Required | High – can take several weeks | Low – often done in 1-2 days |
| Cost | Cheaper upfront | Higher upfront, but time-saving |
| Effort | High – physically and mentally demanding | Low – hands-free experience |
| Risk | Higher risk of damage or poor packing | Lower risk – experienced techniques |
| Materials | Must source or buy your own | All materials provided by packers |
| Ideal for | Budget movers, organised planners | Busy families, downsizers, premium relocations |
Here are rough estimates for removalist packing services in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs:
Partial Packing:Materials like boxes, wrap, tape, and padding are usually included.
Want an exact quote? Click here for a free quote.
Need help with technique?
Explore packing & unpacking services here.
Full-service removalist packages can also include:
With two toddlers, a dog, and full-time jobs, the Smiths couldn’t find the time to pack...
Case 2: The Solo Mover in Ringwood EastJake was moving from a small apartment and had the flexibility to pack at night after work...
Families in Melbourne's eastern suburbs — from Heathmont to Kilsyth and beyond — often choose removalist packing help when time is tight...
If you’re on the fence about DIY vs professional packing, we’re happy to chat through your options. Visit:
DIY packing may seem cheaper upfront, but don’t be fooled — it often comes with hidden costs like buying your own materials, losing time from work or family, and risking damage to fragile items. While packing yourself works for some, many clients find it more cost-effective to pack general items themselves and use our professional packing services for high-risk areas like kitchens, glassware, and electronics. The result? Less stress, fewer breakages, and a smoother move overall.
Yes — and it’s one of our most popular offerings. Many customers opt for a hybrid approach where they handle clothes, books, and soft goods, while we professionally pack fragile items, artwork, and the kitchen. It’s an affordable way to lighten the load and protect what matters. Learn more about our flexible offerings at Packing & Unpacking Services.
Packing yourself can save money — but it also comes with risks. Many DIY packers underestimate the time needed and end up scrambling the night before the move. Incorrect packing leads to damaged goods, unbalanced boxes, and personal injuries. Worst case? You save $300 and lose $2,000 worth of items. If you’re short on time, have delicate valuables, or just want to skip the stress, our team’s got you covered.
Absolutely. We arrive with all the professional-grade materials you’ll need: double-walled boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, butcher paper, mattress bags, and more. You don’t need to hunt down supplies or worry about running out halfway through. Materials are included in our packing packages — it’s one less thing on your plate.
A 1–2 bedroom unit usually takes 3–4 hours. A standard 3–4 bedroom family home might take a full day. Larger homes may be split over two days depending on the size and contents. We’ll give you a time estimate before we begin, and we always send enough crew members to finish efficiently and safely.
We recommend packing personal documents, jewellery, medication, and a bag of essentials you’ll need right away (toothbrush, chargers, snacks, etc.). Everything else — especially breakables, TVs, mirrors, and kitchenware — is best left to the pros. Our trained team knows how to protect even the most fragile items.
Yes — items packed by our team are generally covered by transit insurance. That means if something breaks during the move, you’re protected. Items packed by you may not be covered unless they were clearly damaged by mishandling during the move. It’s one of the biggest benefits of choosing professional packing, especially for glassware, TVs, and antiques.
Costs vary depending on how much you need packed. Partial packing (like kitchen-only or just the fragile items) can start around $300–$500. Full house packing for a 3–4 bedroom home ranges between $700–$1,200. For a detailed quote based on your actual contents, use our Quick Quote form.
Yes — our unpacking service can help you settle in faster. From setting up the kitchen to unboxing essentials and removing all empty boxes, we make move-in day less overwhelming. Perfect for families with kids, time-poor professionals, or seniors relocating. Read more in our stress-free moving guide.
Want to know anything specific, such as moving time frames, costs and extra services?