Planning a move can feel overwhelming and full of decisions. From careful packing to finding someone you trust with your belongings, every step matters. Some services promise a quick and simple shift while others offer full support for even the most complex moves. Whether you need local help or something much bigger, there are options that cover packing, storage and even international relocation. Curious which approach fits your needs and budget? The difference often comes down to experience, the range of services and a personal touch that turns moving from a headache into something you can manage with confidence.
Table of Contents
- Onyx Removals
- Grace Removals
- Allied Van Lines
- Kent Removals & Storage
- Chess Moving
- John Ryan Removals
- Bells Removals & Storage
Onyx Removals
At a Glance
Onyx Removals is a Melbourne-based moving and relocation specialist that prioritises stress-free, personalised planning and professional execution. Their full suite of services—residential, commercial and office moves—pairs practical extras like packing, cleaning and storage with a hands-on team that cares for your items as if they were their own. If you value clarity, flexible options and local expertise, Onyx is built to remove friction from every stage of your move.
Core Features
Onyx Removals centres its service offering on personalised planning for each job and flexible, tailored moving solutions to suit different household and business needs. Core features include comprehensive packing and unpacking, furniture assembly and dismantling, specialised plant transport, waste disposal and skip bin arrangements, and secure storage solutions. The website emphasises transparent pricing, seasonal discounts and concessions for seniors, while the platform supplies quotes and contact tools alongside customer testimonials and an informative blog to build trust.
Pros
- Experienced and professional team: Onyx’s crew are presented as skilled removalists who manage logistics and heavy lifting with care and consistency.
- Customisation options to suit individual needs: Services are tailored per move, allowing you to pick packing, storage or specialised transport as required.
- Additional services to streamline relocation: End-to-lease cleaning, waste disposal and furniture assembly reduce the number of contractors you need to manage.
- Transparent pricing with discounts and no hidden charges: Seasonal offers and senior discounts are highlighted to keep costs predictable.
- High customer satisfaction and positive testimonials: The site features client stories and detailed service descriptions that reinforce reliability.
Who It’s For
Onyx Removals is ideal for individuals, families and businesses in Melbourne who want a single trusted partner to manage a move from start to finish. Whether you’re a household relocating across town, a small business moving premises, or a property manager coordinating bond cleaning and storage, Onyx suits users who prioritise local knowledge, one-call convenience and tailored service rather than piecemeal solutions.
Unique Value Proposition
Onyx Removals stands out by combining local Melbourne expertise with a full-service portfolio designed to remove friction from relocation: personalised planning, flexible scheduling, and an integrated range of extras—packing, storage, cleaning and specialised transport—mean fewer vendors, clearer timelines and a single point of accountability. Their website’s emphasis on transparent pricing and client testimonials builds trust before you even book, and seasonal plus senior discounts signal value-consciousness. In short: Onyx isn’t just a van and two movers; it’s a curated moving experience that prioritises planning, protection and convenience, which makes it demonstrably stronger for Melbourne moves compared with fragmented alternatives.
Real World Use Case
A family relocating within Melbourne can engage Onyx Removals for a full-service package: personalised pre-move planning, packing fragile items and plants, dismantling and reassembling furniture, transporting belongings to storage if needed, and completing bond cleaning—resulting in a single, coordinated timeline and far fewer moving-day surprises.
Pricing
Seasonal offer at $109 per hour for full-service residential, commercial, and office moves; discounts for seniors; additional charges may apply for special items like pianos and pool tables; office and packing services at $109 per hour; bond cleaning starting at $150.
Website: https://onyxremovals.com.au
Grace Removals
At a Glance
Grace Removals is a national mover with presence and scale — over 50 branches across Australia — and a strong customer satisfaction record (4.7/5). They offer local, interstate and international moves plus storage, records management and specialised transport for high‑value items and pets. If you need a single supplier capable of handling everything from office relocations to fine‑art logistics, Grace is a compelling option. It’s reliable, comprehensive and geared toward clients who value experience and service breadth.
Core Features
Grace Removals provides end‑to‑end relocation and logistics services: local, interstate and international moves; secure storage for valuables; transport for pets and specialist items such as fine art, hotel FF&E and records; plus digital information management solutions. Their nationwide network of more than 50 branches and global partners supports complex corporate and residential relocations, while records management and digital services add a layer of continuity for organisations managing sensitive information.
Short. Clear. Useful.
Pros
- Extensive national footprint: With over 50 branches across Australia, Grace can coordinate moves from regional towns to major cities with local expertise and reach.
- Broad service range: They handle residential moves, interstate and international relocations, corporate moves and specialised logistics, giving you one supplier for diverse needs.
- Strong customer satisfaction: A reported 4.7 out of 5 rating indicates consistent positive experiences from a wide client base.
- Experience with complex relocations: Grace has handled office, healthcare and staff relocations, showing capability for regulated and large‑scale moves.
- Digital and records solutions: Their information management and digital offerings help organisations maintain continuity and compliance during transitions.
Cons
- No explicit negatives listed: The provided content offers no specific service faults or recurring complaints, which limits transparency for critical evaluation.
- Potentially higher costs for full service: Given the comprehensive services and national coverage, customers should expect that full‑service moves may come at a premium compared with budget carriers.
- Limited public pricing detail: The available information lacks clear pricing or detailed service packages, making upfront budgeting and direct comparisons harder.
Who It’s For
Grace Removals suits businesses and households that need a reliable, full‑service mover with nationwide reach — especially companies planning interstate or international office relocations, families wanting secure storage and packing, and organisations requiring records management. In short: you, if convenience, experience and a single point of contact matter more than chasing the lowest possible price.
Unique Value Proposition
Grace’s strength lies in scale plus specialisation: a large national network combined with capabilities for specialist logistics (fine art, hotel FF&E, pets) and digital records management. That mix makes them a practical partner for complex moves where logistics, security and continuity are priorities.
Real World Use Case
Imagine a mid‑sized company shifting its head office interstate: Grace coordinates packing, secure transport of sensitive records, storage of surplus assets, and installation at the new site, while managing the logistical and compliance elements through their digital records services. One supplier. One plan. Less friction.
Pricing
Not specified in the provided content.
Website: https://grace.com.au
Allied Van Lines
At a Glance
Allied Van Lines is a long-established full-service moving company with over 95 years of experience and a large mover network. They deliver local, long-distance and international moves with 24/7 customer support and a promise of transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Bottom line: if you want a reliable, full-service removalist that can handle complex interstate and overseas moves, Allied is a safe, well-supported choice — though exact pricing often requires a personalised quote.
Core Features
Allied offers end-to-end moving services: packing, loading, transporting and unpacking, with customisable options to match individual needs. Their network supports local, long-distance and international relocations, and they provide virtual surveys for remote move assessments. Allied also highlights transparent pricing and round-the-clock customer support to keep you informed throughout the process.
Pros
- Deep industry experience and wide coverage: With over 95 years in the business and a large mover network, Allied can reliably cover diverse routes and move sizes.
- Comprehensive, end-to-end service: They handle everything from packing to unpacking, reducing the number of vendors you need to manage during a move.
- Customisable options: Services can be tailored to your specific household or office requirements, so you pay for what you need rather than a fixed package.
- Transparent pricing promise: Allied emphasises no hidden fees, which helps you plan your budget with greater confidence.
- International moving expertise: Their global experience is beneficial if your relocation crosses borders or requires international logistics knowledge.
Cons
- Pricing details are not published upfront on the website, which can frustrate shoppers wanting quick comparisons.
- International and other specialised services frequently require contacting Allied for personalised quotes, which can delay immediate pricing clarity.
- Some guaranteed or custom rates require phone contact, making fully online booking and instant pricing less straightforward.
Who It’s For
Allied Van Lines is suited to individuals, families and organisations planning local, interstate or international moves who want a single provider to manage the entire process. Choose Allied if you value experience, a large operating network and 24/7 support — especially when your move involves long distances or overseas logistics.
Unique Value Proposition
Allied’s core strength is its combination of decades-long experience and a broad mover network, enabling them to deliver complex, full-service relocations with consistent customer support. The emphasis on transparent pricing and virtual surveys further positions them as a practical choice for customers seeking clarity and professional oversight.
Real World Use Case
A family relocating across the country would engage Allied for a full-service interstate move: a virtual survey to scope the job, tailored packing and loading services, interstate transport coordinated by Allied’s network, and unpacking at the destination — all supported by 24/7 customer service to manage timing and any questions.
Pricing
Quote-based; clients can get a free quote or contact Allied for customised estimates.
Website: https://allied.com
Kent Removals & Storage
At a Glance
Kent Removals & Storage is Australia’s largest removals and storage company, operating since 1946 and having moved more than 1 million Australians. Their offering spans local, interstate and overseas relocations with corporate services, storage and customs clearance — all backed by a long track record and a stated focus on safety and environmental responsibility. If you want a seasoned provider that handles complex door-to-door logistics, Kent is a solid option; if you need transparent pricing online, expect to ask for a quote.
Core Features
Kent combines deep experience (over 75 years) with nationwide coverage across metro and regional areas, plus overseas moving capability including customs clearance. Core services include packing, storage, corporate and employee relocations, and an emphasis on eco-friendly packing materials and an energy-efficient fleet to reduce environmental impact. Their operations are built around full-service, door-to-door logistics aimed at minimising customer effort — from packing your fragile items through to settling them in the new property.
Clear. Reliable. Experienced.
Pros
- Decades of experience: Kent’s more than 75 years in the industry and a track record of moving over a million customers provide confidence that processes and contingency plans are well established.
- Comprehensive, end-to-end services: The company handles packing, storage and overseas customs clearance, which simplifies complex relocations by keeping most tasks under one provider.
- Extensive geographic reach: With coverage across metro and regional Australia and overseas capabilities, Kent is a practical choice for moves that cross state lines or national borders.
- Customer service and professionalism: The data highlights award-winning customer service and professional staff, suggesting consistent, client-focused execution.
- Environmental focus: Use of eco-friendly materials and an energy-efficient fleet reduces the environmental footprint of your move and reflects modern sustainability priorities.
Cons
- Limited online pricing transparency: The website does not specify detailed pricing options, so you’ll need to contact Kent directly for an accurate quote.
- Unclear service packages: Specific service packages or customisation options are not detailed online, which can make it harder to compare offerings before speaking to a consultant.
- Potentially premium pricing: Given the brand’s scale and experience, costs may be higher than budget removalists, particularly for specialised or premium services.
Who It’s For
Kent is best for individuals, families or businesses that value reliability and a single-provider solution for complicated moves — especially interstate or overseas relocations and corporate transfers. Choose Kent if you prefer experienced teams, environmental considerations and full-service logistics over lowest-cost options.
Unique Value Proposition
Kent’s unique proposition is its scale and legacy: a nationwide, full-service mover with deep institutional knowledge, overseas customs capability and a stated commitment to safety and sustainability. That combination suits clients who need reassurance and a hands-off move.
Real World Use Case
A family moving from Melbourne to Sydney hires Kent to pack fragile items, transport belongings, provide short-term storage and assist with settling into the new home; Kent manages customs paperwork for overseas-bound items and coordinates timing to reduce household downtime.
Pricing
Quote-based — customers are encouraged to request a personalised quote directly from the company.
Website: https://kentremovalsstorage.com.au
Chess Moving
At a Glance
Chess Moving is a full-service removalist with national reach and international capabilities, offering moving, storage and asset-relocation services for both residential and commercial clients. Its strengths are a nationwide office network, strong security for stored goods and accreditation that signals high operating standards. If you need a single provider to manage interstate moves, international shipments and commercial inventory, Chess Moving presents a consolidated option — but expect quotes to be bespoke rather than off-the-shelf.
Core Features
Chess Moving provides online inventory listing for custom quotes, interstate and international moving with nationwide coverage, and a suite of ancillary services such as planning, pet transit, insurance, cleaning and storage. For businesses, it offers commercial storage and inventory services managed by the ARMS system, which supports national distribution and centralised asset management. The platform aims to combine local customer service with global reach and secure facilities.
Pros
- Nationwide network with local offices: Chess Moving’s presence in major cities means you’re likely to get localised support while still tapping into national logistics capabilities.
- High-security storage facilities: The storage options are positioned as secure, which is important when you’re moving valuable household goods or business assets.
- Accredited to international standards: FIDI/FIAM accreditation indicates adherence to recognised quality and operational benchmarks.
- Versatile service range: The company covers residential, commercial and specialised moves including asset transfers and pet transit, which reduces the need to manage multiple contractors.
- Online quoting and inventory management: An online inventory listing feature helps generate tailored quotes and improves transparency on what’s being moved.
Cons
- No publicly listed pricing: Specific pricing details are not provided, so you’ll need to request a bespoke quote to understand true costs.
- Broad service scope may require clarification: The wide range of services could mean you must confirm specifics for highly specialised or unique move requirements to ensure exact capabilities and exclusions.
- Quote dependency on online system: Because costs and scope are largely quote-based, there may be variable timelines between enquiry and confirmed pricing.
Who It’s For
Chess Moving is best suited to individuals and businesses planning interstate or international relocations who want a single provider for moving, storage and asset management. It also fits organisations that need national distribution or centralised inventory control and prefer accredited providers with secure storage solutions.
Unique Value Proposition
Chess Moving combines national coverage, international reach and a commercial-grade ARMS inventory system, offering an integrated service for both household and corporate moves. Its accreditation and secure facilities position it as a provider focused on reliable, standards-driven relocations rather than low-cost commoditised moves.
Real World Use Case
A company relocating office equipment between states could use Chess Moving to catalogue assets via the online inventory, secure short-term storage in high-security facilities, and manage interstate transport under a single contract — simplifying logistics, insurance and chain-of-custody concerns.
Pricing
Quote-based: Get a free quote online; pay only for the storage you use.
Website: https://chessmoving.com.au
John Ryan Removals
At a Glance
John Ryan Removals is a seasoned Melbourne removalist with more than 40 years’ experience in residential, commercial and international moves. Their FIDI Global Alliance certification and full door-to-door services mean they can handle complex interstate and overseas relocations that many local operators avoid. They offer contactless virtual quotations and maintain safety measures during health crises — practical benefits if you want low-contact planning. Bottom line: dependable and capable, though pricing and storage detail require direct contact.
Core Features
John Ryan provides end-to-end relocation support: complete packing and unpacking, interstate and international removal services, shared-container export options to the UK, NZ and USA, and full door-to-door worldwide moves. They also manage corporate and commercial relocations for offices, libraries, schools and warehouses, and offer storage solutions for short or long term. Virtual quotations enable contactless estimates, while their FIDI certification signals adherence to international moving standards.
Pros
- Deep industry experience: Over 40 years in business gives them institutional knowledge of logistics, timing and common pitfalls during moves.
- Wide service range: They cover local, interstate and international moves plus packing, unpacking and storage, reducing the number of vendors you need to coordinate.
- International shipping options: Shared container services to the UK, New Zealand and the USA make overseas moves more cost-effective for households and small businesses.
- FIDI Global Alliance certification: This independent accreditation supports credibility for international relocations and cross-border handling.
- Contactless quoting: Virtual quotations are available, which helps maintain continuity during health crises or when you prefer remote planning.
Cons
- Pricing not published: Specific costs and pricing tiers are not provided, so you must contact the company to obtain a quote and compare value.
- Storage details are limited: While storage is offered, information about facility types, security features and price points is not detailed in the available data.
- Customer support availability unclear: There’s no explicit statement about support hours or after-hours assistance, which may matter for time-sensitive commercial moves.
Who It’s For
This service fits individuals and businesses in Melbourne who need a reliable, experienced partner for moves that range from local house relocations to interstate and international transfers. Choose John Ryan if you value a single provider that can pack, ship and store — especially when exporting goods overseas or moving an office.
Unique Value Proposition
John Ryan’s unique strength is combining four decades of local knowledge with recognised international standards (FIDI) and shared-container shipping options, enabling door-to-door moves worldwide while keeping the process simple for clients.
Real World Use Case
A Melbourne family moving to another state or overseas can use John Ryan’s complete packing, transport and storage services: a virtual quote, professional packing, shared-container export if heading to the UK/NZ/USA, and short-term storage while settlement completes — all with safety measures in place.
Pricing
Quote-based: Please contact for a free quote.
Website: https://johnryan.com.au
Bells Removals & Storage
At a Glance
Bells Removals & Storage is a veteran Tasmanian mover with over 75 years of experience specialising in local, interstate and international furniture removals. They combine traditional know-how with a wide service set — packing, storage, insurance and cleaning — to offer end-to-end relocation support. If you value careful handling and a company embedded in the local moving ecosystem, Bells is an obvious contender. It’s thorough. It’s dependable.
Core Features
Bells provides comprehensive removal services for household and commercial clients, covering local, interstate and international moves. Core offerings include professional packing services, moving insurance options, house cleaning, and storage solutions — including container and module storage on secure premises. They also handle specialty items such as pianos and antiques and operate as a member of the Australian Movers Group, which extends their network and professional standards across relocations.
Pros
- Deep industry experience: With 75 years in the business, Bells brings institutional expertise that helps minimise surprises on moving day. Their longevity suggests reliable processes and trained crews.
- Full-service offerings: Bells supplies packing, storage, cleaning and insurance, meaning you can consolidate multiple moving needs under one provider for a smoother timeline.
- Trusted handling of valuables: The company emphasises careful handling of belongings, which is important if you’re moving fragile or sentimental items like antiques or pianos.
- Network membership: As a member of the Australian Movers Group, Bells benefits from an extended professional network that supports interstate and international logistics.
- Range of move types covered: They cater to residential, commercial and international moves, giving businesses and families flexible relocation options.
Cons
- Limited pricing transparency: Specific rates are not listed on the website, so you must contact Bells for a personalised quote rather than getting instant pricing online.
- Potentially higher cost for full-service moves: Because they offer full-service solutions, bills can be higher compared with DIY or partial-service options depending on the scale of your move.
- Few instant online tools: There are limited online self-service tools for instant quotes or detailed planning, which means more phone or email interaction to lock in logistics.
Who It’s For
Bells suits individuals, families and businesses in Tasmania (and beyond) who prioritise experience, comprehensive service and professional handling over the lowest possible price. If you prefer a single provider to co-ordinate packing, storage and final delivery — and want insurance and cleaning bundled in — Bells is tailored to your needs.
Unique Value Proposition
Bells’ unique strength is a long-standing, local presence combined with a broad service suite: you get decades of removalist experience plus integrated storage and ancillary services under one roof. That mix reduces coordination friction and gives peace of mind during multi-stage moves.
Real World Use Case
Imagine a family from Sandy Bay who must move into temporary storage between leases: Bells packs the household, places belongings into secure container storage, performs interim cleaning, then completes interstate delivery when the new property is ready. One provider. One timeline. Less stress.
Pricing
Quote-based — pricing not specified on the website; contact Bells for a personalised quote.
Website: https://bellsremovals.com.au
Moving Services Comparison
This table compares various moving companies based in Australia, highlighting their features, pros, cons, and pricing to assist you in making an informed decision.
| Company | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onyx Removals | Personalised planning, flexible solutions, packing, cleaning, storage | Experienced team, custom options, transparent pricing, high satisfaction | No cons listed | $109/hr for full-service; additional charges for special items |
| Grace Removals | Nationwide presence, local/interstate/international moves, records management | Extensive footprint, broad service range, strong satisfaction | Higher costs for full-service; limited upfront pricing | Not specified; contact for detailed pricing |
| Allied Van Lines | Packing, loading, local/interstate/international moves, virtual surveys | Deep experience, end-to-end service, transparent pricing | No upfront pricing; requires personalised quotes | Quote-based; free quotes available |
| Kent Removals | Local, interstate, overseas, customs clearance, eco-friendly options | Decades of experience, comprehensive services, environmental focus | Limited online pricing transparency | Quote-based; contact for personalised quote |
| Chess Moving | National/interstate/international, secure storage, asset management | Nationwide network, high-security storage, versatile services | No public pricing; requires bespoke quote | Quote-based; online inventory for tailored quotes |
| John Ryan Removals | Local/interstate/international, packing, storage, virtual quotes | 40+ years experience, FIDI certification, contactless quoting | Pricing not published; limited storage details | Quote-based; contact for free quote |
| Bells Removals | Local/interstate/international, packing, insurance, storage, cleaning | 75 years experience, full service, trusted handling | Limited pricing transparency; potentially higher costs for full-service | Quote-based; contact for personalised quote |
Seamless Interstate Moves Start with Personalised Planning
Moving interstate can feel overwhelming. You want clear timelines, reliable coordination, and trusted expertise to prevent costly delays or damage. The article highlights challenges such as managing multiple vendors, unpredictable pricing, and uncertain logistics that make interstate relocation stressful and complicated. If you seek to remove these barriers and focus on settling into your new home or office with ease, Onyx Removals has the locally focused solutions designed just for you.
Discover how Onyx Removals delivers tailored moving plans for residential and commercial clients backed by transparent pricing and a hands-on team who treats your belongings with care. Whether you need coordinated packing, storage, specialised transport or cleaning, our Melbourne-based experts ensure everything runs smoothly. Explore our business services to find out how we simplify office and commercial moves or head to our homepage for a full overview. Act now to get a personalised quote and take the guesswork out of your next interstate move.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best interstate moving services?
To choose the best interstate moving services, evaluate their experience, customer reviews, service offerings, and pricing transparency. Research several companies to compare their services and gather at least three quotes for a clearer picture of costs involved.
What should I look for in an interstate moving service contract?
When reviewing an interstate moving service contract, look for clear details on services provided, pricing, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies. Ensure all terms are explicitly stated to avoid surprise fees and understand your rights during the move.
How can I prepare for my interstate move?
Prepare for your interstate move by creating a detailed checklist that includes packing timelines, inventorying your items, and confirming arrangements with your chosen moving service. Aim to start packing at least three weeks in advance to minimize stress on moving day.
What factors affect the cost of interstate moving services?
The cost of interstate moving services can be affected by several factors, including the distance of the move, the volume of items being transported, and additional services like packing and storage. Request a quote that breaks down these factors to get a comprehensive understanding of total expenses.
Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of with interstate moving services?
Yes, some interstate moving services may have hidden fees related to fuel charges, packing materials, or special handling of items. Always ask for a detailed cost breakdown before signing any agreements to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected charges.
How far in advance should I book my interstate moving service?
It’s best to book your interstate moving service at least 4–6 weeks in advance, especially during peak moving seasons. Early booking allows you to secure your preferred dates and consider all available options for your move.
Recommended
About the Author
