If you’re planning a trans-Tasman move, one of the first things you might be thinking is: “How much will it cost me to move from New Zealand to Australia?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Costs depend on how much you’re moving, where in Australia you’re headed, and what type of shipping service you choose.
Ausmove breakdown the key factors, typical price ranges, and some smart ways to keep your relocation budget under control.
What Affects the Cost of Moving from NZ to Australia?
Several variables determine your final price. Understanding these factors will help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected expenses, here’s a summary:
Volume of belongings
More items means more container space. A couple of boxes is very different from a full 3-bedroom house plus a car. On a pro rata basis the more you ship the cheaper it is by volume rate.
Type of service
Groupage/shared containers are cost-effective, while sole-use containers offer speed and privacy. Air freight is faster but significantly more expensive. Ideal for priority items your household needs whilst the sea freight is enroute.
Destination city
Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne will be cheaper than shipping to Perth, Northern Queensland, or Tasmania because of distance and logistics.
Customs & quarantine
Australia’s biosecurity rules mean inspections are mandatory, which can add fees if items need treatment. We include these in our quotations for peace of mind or a no surprises approach.
Packing Services
Packing, storage, unpacking, or insurance all increase the total bill, but its best to have a professional company, like Ausmove do the packing to avoid more invasive customs and quarantine inspections.
Vehicles
Shipping a car or motorbike adds cost, though often it can be combined in the same container as household goods. Hybrid cars can be shipped too but via Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) service.
Typical Moving Cost Examples
While every move is unique, here’s what you might expect to pay for different move sizes:
| Move Size | Estimated Cost (NZD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small shipment (boxes, personal effects) | $1,500-$4,000 | Usually sent via groupage/shared container. Best for students, singles, or small volume loads. |
| 2–3 bedroom household | $6,000-$15,000 | May require a 20ft container. Costs vary depending on packing, insurance, and destination. |
| Full house + vehicle | $15,000+ | Likely to need a 40ft sole-use container. |
These figures are estimates only. The best way to know your exact cost is to request a personalised quote based on your inventory and destination.
FAQs: Moving from NZ to Australia
How much does it cost to move a household from New Zealand to Australia?
A typical 2–3 bedroom home usually costs between $6,000 – $15,000 NZD, depending on container size, destination, and extra services like packing and insurance.
What’s the cheapest way to move to Australia from NZ?
The most cost-effective method is groupage shipping, where your belongings share space in a container with other shipments. You only pay for the volume you use, but it may take a little longer to arrive, so plan well in advance.
How long does shipping take from New Zealand to Australia?
Most sea freight shipments typically take 6-8 weeks door-to-door, depending on the service chosen, customs clearance, and final delivery location. Using a sole use container can reduce this down to four weeks.
Can I ship my car to Australia along with household goods?
Yes. Many movers, including Ausmove, can ship your vehicle and personal effects in the same container, which can save both time and money. Hybrid vehicles are shipped via Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) service.
How to Save Money on Your Move
Moving doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right planning and choices, you can significantly reduce your relocation costs while still enjoying a smooth, stress-free experience. Here are some of the most effective ways to keep your budget under control.
Declutter first
Sell or donate items you don’t need. Shipping less saves you money.
Choose groupage shipping
If you’re not moving an entire house, this option is far cheaper.
Be flexible with dates
Avoid peak moving seasons if you can.
Transferring funds
We refer you to the experts at Xe who guarantee better bank rates. The savings are real and have covered the cost of moving in some circumstances.
Compare services
Not all quotes include the same extras, so check carefully.
Bundle goods and vehicles
Shipping them together is often more cost-effective.
Get a Personalised Quote
To receive an accurate cost, you’ll need to provide details like:
- Your full inventory (furniture, boxes, special items)
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- Preferred dates
- Whether you’re including a car or boat
Ausmove’s team then tailors a quote to match your needs, giving you clear options for groupage or full container services.
Moving you to Australia from New Zealand
Planning a move across the Tasman takes preparation, but you don’t have to do it alone. With decades of experience, Ausmove specialises exclusively in helping Kiwis relocate to Australia. From costs and shipping options to customs and timelines, they understand every step of the process and make your move easier.
Ready to find out your exact cost? Request a FREE quote from Ausmove or call (09) 360-4777 today.
