DIY vs Cheap Interstate Removalists: Which Option Saves More?

When it comes to long-distance relocations, many Australians are torn between two popular strategies: doing it all themselves or opting for cheap interstate removals. On the surface, both approaches appear cost-effective—but what you save upfront could cost you later in time, stress, or even unexpected expenses.

So, which is the smarter choice when you’re balancing your budget, your sanity, and the safety of your belongings?

We looked into both options and came across insights from Ashraf Hajaj, operations manager at National Removalist, who has seen just about every moving scenario play out—smoothly, or not so smoothly.

“The cheapest option isn’t always the most cost-effective. People often underestimate how much time and energy it takes to coordinate a DIY move, especially across state lines.”

Let’s break down the true pros, cons, and hidden costs of both options to help you decide what works best for your next big move.

DIY Moving: What It Really Involves

At first glance, a DIY move seems like a straightforward way to save money. Rent a truck, load your stuff, and hit the road. But what many people don’t realise is how many moving parts (literally) are involved.

What You’ll Need:

• A rental truck large enough for all your items
• Packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap, blankets, straps)
• A full tank—or two—of fuel
• Tolls and insurance coverage
• Willing friends or family to help load and unload

Pros of DIY:

• Full control over your timeline and packing
• Potential savings on labour costs
• Flexibility to make stops or detours during the trip

Cons of DIY:

• Physical labour and risk of injury
• Driving large vehicles across unfamiliar terrain
• Fuel, insurance, and hidden truck rental fees
• Extra time off work or daily responsibilities

“People don’t always factor in the fatigue that comes with driving a loaded truck for 10+ hours,” Hajaj notes. “And that’s before you even start unpacking.”

Cheap Interstate Removalists: A Different Kind of Value

Hiring budget-friendly movers doesn’t mean compromising on quality—it just means being savvy about what you need and what you’re willing to pay for. Many cheap interstate removals providers offer shared load services, flexible scheduling, and cost-effective packages.

What’s Typically Included:

• Loading, transport, and unloading
• Basic transit insurance
• Experienced handling of furniture and valuables
• Optional packing/unpacking services

Pros of Budget Removalists:

• Reduced physical effort and injury risk
• Professional packing and moving equipment
• Predictable timelines and logistics
• Frees up your time for other relocation tasks (setting up utilities, changing addresses, etc.)

Cons of Budget Removalists:

• Less control over exact pickup/drop-off times
• Risk of delays with shared loads
• Some very low-cost providers may cut corners—do your research

“Cheap doesn’t have to mean low quality,” says Hajaj. “But it does mean you need to check reviews, verify insurance, and understand what you’re actually getting.”

Hidden Costs: What You Might Be Missing

Whether DIY or using a cheap removalist, unexpected costs can quickly stack up.

DIY Move Hidden Costs:

• Fuel inefficiency of large trucks
• Excess mileage fees from rental companies
• Road tolls between cities
• Overnight accommodation if the drive is too long
• Lost time if something goes wrong (like a flat tyre or broken-down vehicle)

Budget Removalist Hidden Costs:

• Stair or access fees if your property isn’t ground-level
• Extra charges for last-minute changes
• Limited insurance that may not cover damages to all belongings
• Delays if your load is part of a shared or backload service

Being aware of these costs upfront can help you make a smarter decision—not just a cheaper one.

The Stress Factor

One of the biggest things money can’t always account for is the emotional and physical stress of a move. Packing up an entire home, coordinating logistics, and facing the unknowns of the road can be overwhelming.

DIY:

• High stress due to responsibility for every step
• Physical exhaustion from lifting, loading, and driving
• No professional backup if things go wrong

Budget Removalists:

• Lower stress—professionals handle the heavy lifting
• Better risk management (especially if insured)
• Peace of mind knowing someone experienced is managing the logistics

“You really start to appreciate experienced movers when your couch doesn’t fit through the front door, or the fridge needs to be tilted a certain way to come down the stairs,” Hajaj adds.

Who Should Consider DIY?

DIY moving may still be a viable choice if:

• You have minimal furniture or belongings
• You’re moving from a one-bedroom apartment or studio
• You’re comfortable driving a large vehicle
• You have friends or family available and willing to help
• You’re on a tight schedule and need full flexibility

Who Should Consider Budget Interstate Removalists?

Hiring cheap removalists is often the smarter move if:

• You’re relocating a family home or full house
• You have fragile or bulky items
• You want to avoid the physical toll
• You value peace of mind and efficiency
• You’re working with a moderate budget and tight timeline

Making the Final Call

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your situation, priorities, and tolerance for stress. While DIY might save you a few hundred dollars up front, the physical labour, time off work, and risk of things going wrong may outweigh the benefit.

In contrast, cheap interstate removals—when done right—can save you time, energy, and headaches, especially if you choose a team that communicates well and has proven experience with long-haul logistics.

As Ashraf Hajaj puts it:

 “People often ask, ‘Is it worth paying someone to do this?’ I say—if you value your time, your safety, and your sanity… probably yes.

Final Thought

A long-distance move is more than just a change of address—it’s a big life event. However you choose to handle it, be honest about what you can manage yourself and what’s worth outsourcing. Sometimes, the best savings come from spending just enough in the right places.

If you’re preparing for your own interstate move, weigh the real costs—not just the dollar amount. Time, energy, and peace of mind are all part of the price tag.