The Removal Process - Using a Removalist vs DIY
Don't leave it until the day of the move arrives to decide how you will get your possessions from A to B.  If you're not afraid of hard work, hiring a van or trailer will save you a lot of money however you'll pay for it in sheer exhaustion at the end of the move (and probably wish you'd appointed a removalist).  Many people will leave the task to a removal company.

The following factors will influence your decision:

• Cost of using a removalist vs doing it yourself.

• Distance of the move i.e. how many trips would you need to make if you took on the task yourself.

• Quantity of belongings.

• Size of certain objects (Could you really carry that piano?).

• Accessibility of your new property (narrow hallway/stairs?).

Using a Removalist

• For peace of mind and to make sure your getting a good price, it is a good idea to approach three removal companies and get quotes.

• Any reputable removal company will probably visit your home to gauge an indication of your belongings (i.e. what type / how much / how difficult etc).

• Usually the quote will be based on the expected number of hours needed to complete the move, as well as extras, such as special requirements needed (i.e. moving particular items like pianos / potted plants etc, un/packing etc).

• Make sure any quotes are GST inclusive and ask them for an option for insurance that will cover goods for against accidental damage in transit.

DIY - Being your own Removalist
If you are considering moving home yourself, there are a number of things to consider:

• Firstly, make sure your contents insurance covers you for goods damaged during transit. Think about all your belongings for minute.  The likelihood that something will be knocked, dropped or broken is fairly high considering the quantity of belongings that most people own.

• Make sure you call a number of rental companies for a good quote on a van or light truck.

• Make sure your drivers license will be appropriate for the type of vehicle you hire. 

• Make sure that you take out insurance on any vehicle you hire and try to determine if the vehicle comes with a goods trolley to help you move heavy items. 

• In the event of rain, you want to make sure you've got a tarpaulin and rope.  Take into consideration the number of trips you need to make to and from.  Will it be more efficient getting a removalist to do the job in one hit rather than paying to fill up on petrol for 4-5 trips? 

• Make sure when you return the hire car that you fill up the petrol tank before you take the car back - don't let the hire company do it as they will more often that not charge a massive premium on the fuel.