Interstate Cost Comparison: Taxi Box vs Backloading vs Premium Removalists

Are you moving states soon? Interstate moves are becoming increasingly popular. In fact, in March 2024, Australia recorded the highest number of interstate moves since 1996, with 116,000 Aussies relocating across the country!

Your decision on which moving method to use when relocating interstate starts with analyzing different transportation options and, of course, comparing their prices. As a business owner who has been helping Aussies move across the country for the past four years, I consider myself an expert in interstate moving costs and pricing, and I’m here to guide you through the best options available.

In this article I’ll provide an interstate cost comparison with the pros, cons, and expenses of the three most common moving approaches: Taxi Box, Backloading and Traditional Removalists. At North Removals we are expert interstate removalists. Let´s look deeper into your intestate move and explore the best options for you!

Understanding Your Moving Options

1. Taxi Box

The Australian company Taxi Box deliver storage portable units to your location, usually dropping the units in your front or back yard for easy access.This allows you to pack at your own pace however you’ll have to pack the unit by yourself or ask friends for help. Once you’re ready, the company transports the unit to your new interstate destination or stores it until you’re ready for delivery. 

2. Backloading

Backloading allows multiple customers to share transportation space inside the same truck when moving toward the same general destination. The available space on returning trucks allows removalists to provide cost-efficient solutions and save some money. Backloading services operate based on truck availability and routing needs, so that could affect the flexibility of your moving date. 

3. Traditional Premium Removalists

Traditional premium removalists like us manage the entire moving process, from providing packing boxes if needed to loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings at your destination. This option is ideal for those who require full-service moving, a specific moving date or are relocating to regional areas. However, it comes at a higher cost compared to alternative solutions.

Overview of Each Moving Method

Choosing a moving method for an interstate relocation depends on your financial situation as well as your timing requirements and specific demands. Here are further details on the main moving methods:

Aspect	Taxi Box	Backloading	Traditional Removalists
Cost	This approach provides financial efficiency since you pay for the number of utilised units while avoiding unnecessary costs for unused space.	This solution provides cost-effective services because customers pay solely based on how much space their cargo requires.	This option stands as the most expensive choice because it includes extensive assistance services.
Flexibility	You have full control over packing speed while keeping the option to schedule when you need your items collected.	The flexibility for scheduling is limited because moving dates depend on truck availability and routes which necessitates quite adaptable planning.	The company provides personalised moving timelines which align with your individual needs.
Professional Assistance	Self-service packingincreases the risk of damage to fragile items during transit. Without professional packing assistance, improper loading or insufficient padding can lead to breakages.	Limited professional assistance; primarily transportation with minimal packing help. Moderate risk of breakage during transit.	The assistance includes professional packing services together with expert handling of personal belongings, and also unpacking.
Security	The unit has its own padlock system which allows you to keep your storage area secure.	The security level is low because your items share transport containers with other people´s belongings.	High security; professional handling and exclusive truck use vastly reduce the risk of damage or loss.
Ideal For	The service meets the needs of people who want flexible packing options along with scheduling flexibility and temporary storage.	Cost-conscious individuals with smaller loads who can be flexible with moving dates.	This solution works best for people who need complete moving support while also requiring specific date and time arrangements.

You´ll need to have an idea of the estimated costs for various relocation methods before arranging an interstate move between Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Newcastle or Adelaide. The following section details costs for the three main moving services.

Interstate Cost Comparison Table for a Three-Bedroom House:

The prices listed in this chart are estimates only and should not be considered a final quote. Actual moving costs may vary based on property access, seasonal demand, fuel prices, and other conditions. For an accurate quote, please contact us directly.

As you see, after analysing all the interstate moving methods, the best option if you are looking to save some money is backloading. For example if you’re moving Melbourne to Adelaide, Sydney to Newcastle, or Adelaide to Sydney prices start at $520 for shorter routes like Sydney to Newcastle and going up to $3,900 for Adelaide to Newcastle.

When moving a three bedroom house Taxi Box offers a mid-range solution, allowing you to pack at your own pace before transport. It’s a good option for those needing storage, with costs ranging from $1,200 for Sydney to Canberra to $4,160 for Adelaide to Newcastle.

For a stress-free move, premium removalists provide full-service packing, transport, and unloading. While more expensive, ranging from $2,600 to $7,150, it’s the most reliable choice for moving Melbourne to Sydney, Melbourne to Newcastle or Adelaide to Canberra, ensuring dedicated truck space and scheduled delivery.

Whether you’re moving interstate for work or a lifestyle change, understanding these options will help you plan your relocation effectively.

Pros and Cons of Each Moving Method

Moving Method	Pros	Cons
Taxi Box	Taxi Box offers flexibility to pack at your own pace.Suitable for gradual moves. Taxi Box provides you storage solutions in their facilities which is secure and affordable.	The taxi box has limited access to belongings during transit.Without professional packing assistance, poor loading and insufficient padding can cause breakages.
Backloading	This method is cost-effective when sharing truck space. Backloading is environmentally friendly by maximising the use of the truck.	This method has less control over programming.This method has possible delays due to shared loads.Backloading has limited space for large moves and limited packing assistance increasing the risk of breakages.
Traditional Removalists	Full professional service that includes: packing, transportation, unpacking and even delivery of boxes. More flexible to suit your times and avaiability. Don’t have restrictions of space, more suitable for larger moves.	Generally more expensive.

Beware of Delayed Delivery Times: A Real Customer Experience

I still remember the year 2022, right after the pandemic, when many people were moving interstate. One of my clients, Anna, was relocating for the second time. She had first moved from Melbourne to Sydney and was now moving back to Sydney from Melbourne.

During the move, we had a conversation about her previous bad experience with backloading. She told me that when she moved to Sydney, she had chosen a backloading service to save money. However, the company ran into issues with another customer sharing the truck, which caused a significant delay in the delivery of her furniture.

Anna ended up waiting two weeks in a hotel, stuck without her belongings, while the company tried to resolve the issue. I still remember how distressed she was when she told me about the experience.

This is why I strongly advise being cautious if choosing a backloading service, first read their Google reviews!. While it may seem like a cost-effective option, you don’t have control over your delivery timeline since your belongings are dependent on other customers schedules and potential issues. If you need reliable, on-time delivery, it’s always better to choose a premium interstate removalist who can guarantee when your items will arrive.

Others Factors Influencing Interstate Moving Costs

The factors affecting your final moving expenses should be identified before you plan a move so you can set a budget and make strategic choices. Examine the essential elements below which determine costs during a move.

1. Distance Between Origin and Destination

Local residential moves are typically charged by the hour, while long-distance and interstate moves are calculated based on a combination of factors, including distance and the volume of belongings. Interstate moving cost calculators often consider weight, volume, and travel distance. The greater the distance, the higher the costs due to increased fuel expenses and labor fees, ultimately leading to a higher final moving price.

2. Volume and Weight

The expenses increase according to the total size and heaviness of items being transported. The size of trucks needed for the transport, along with manpower costs, will rise when you carry multiple or heavy items. The process of decluttering before a move will help to minimise both volume and weight, thus your moving costs.

3. Additional Services

Your total moving expenses increase if you choose packing and unpacking assistance, together with the cost of disassembling furniture and its subsequent reassembly, as well as what you pay for packing materials. Getting full-service moving assistance provides great ease but demands higher fees.

4. Time of Year and Demand for Moving Services

Your decision regarding when to move also affects how much you will pay for the service. Prices for moving services tend to rise during peak periods (that fall within summer months) or beginning or ending of the month. Lower moving expenses are likely during periods when demand is lower, which includes both mid-month and the winter months.

When choosing a moving company, it´s good practice to obtain at least three quotes from different service providers. Through multiple quotation requests you can compare moving services while checking both final costs and availability to select the solution that best matches your requirements. Make sure to check the company’s Google reviews to avoid any bad experiences!

At North Removals we’ve achieved 600 + five-star reviews from happy customers since 2019 (and counting); our dedicated team works tirelessly every day to support your interstate move safely and efficiently.

Why Cutting Costs on an Interstate Move Can Be Risky

Now that we’ve compared the options, let me share my professional recommendation based on five years of experience in the industry. 

My professional opinion is that if your budget allows it, you should never try to cut costs on an interstate move. How many times will you moving interstate in your lifetime? Likely no more than two or three. I always compare moving interstate to a wedding, it’s one of the most important days of your life, and hiring professional removalists ensures a safe, stress-free experience.

That say I always recommend choosing traditional removalists, as this is the most secure option. With our premium interstate moving service, your belongings will not share truck space with other people’s items. You’ll also benefit from professional packing, including high-quality blankets, protective materials, and secure strapping to prevent damage during transit. Additionally, our service provides full flexibility, allowing us to adapt to your schedule and availability.

However, I’m aware of the rising cost of living in Australia and how difficult the situations of some families are. Then the next best option I would recommend is Taxi Box. This method offers affordable and secure storage, making it a cost-efficient choice for transporting your furniture interstate. That said, I do not recommend Taxi Box if you can stretch your budget slightly, because self-packing increases the risk of damage. 

As I mentioned before, I’ve worked with many customers who previously moved with Taxi Box and found that their belongings shifted and broke inside the unit due to the lack of professional packing and strapping, something that we always ensure in our interstate moves.

Lastly, my least recommended option is Backloading. In my opinion, it combines the worst aspects of both budget-friendly alternatives. While it’s the cheapest option, it comes with major downsides: you don’t get professional packing assistance, you have no flexibility in choosing your moving date and your belongings will share truck space with other people’s items. This increases the likelihood of movement and damage during transport, making it a high-risk choice.

Call the Interstate Moving Pros

I hope you’ve enjoyed this article and that the information I’ve shared from my years of experience moving people helps you make the best decision for your interstate move. If you finally decide that a professional premium interstate removalist is the right choice for you and you need to move Melbourne to Canberra or any other interstate route, feel free to reach out to North Removals.

Our team is dedicated to providing a secure, efficient and professional moving experience to make your transition between states as easy as possible. Also before you go I recommend you to check our moving interstate checklist, really useful if you are moving states anytime soon!

Interstate Moving FAQs

What is the cheapest way to move interstate?

The cheapest way to move interstate is backloading, where you share truck space with other customers, reducing costs. However, it offers less flexibility on moving dates.

How much does it cost to move a three-bedroom house interstate from Sydney to Melbourne?

Interstate moving costs vary depending on distance, volume, and service type. For a three bedroom house prices range from $650–$2,990 for backloading, $3,000-$3,500 for Taxi Box storage, and $4,550–$5,850 for premium removalists.

Is backloading a good option for interstate moves?

Yes, backloading is a budget-friendly option, but it requires flexibility with moving dates since it depends on truck availability.

What is the difference between backloading and traditional removalists?

Backloading involves sharing space on a truck returning to its base, making it cheaper but less flexible. Traditional removalists offer full-service moves with packing, transport, and unpacking but at a higher cost.

How do I choose the best interstate moving company?

Compare at least three quotes, check online reviews, confirm insurance coverage, and choose a company with experience in long-distance moves.

How long does it take to move interstate?

Interstate moves can take anywhere from 1 to 7 days, depending on the distance, transport method, and service availability.

Is moving with a Taxi Box cheaper than hiring a removalist?

Yes, a Taxi Box is generally cheaper than a full-service removalist since you handle packing and loading yourself. However, it may not be as cost-effective for large moves.

Can I move interstate on a budget?

Yes, you can move on a budget by decluttering, choosing backloading, moving during off-peak seasons, and packing your items yourself to avoid extra labor costs.