Best Removalists in Brisbane: Top 3 Movers Compared
Planning a move in Brisbane and wondering how to get your belongings from your old home to your new one? Whether you’re relocating in popular suburbs like New Farm, Chermside, or Toowong, or heading further out to Carindale, Indooroopilly, or Stafford, you’ve got two great options: hiring a removalist or taking control with a DIY truck rental.
In this guide, we compare Brisbane’s top 3 removalists for those who want a hands-off move—plus, why renting a truck could be the smarter (and cheaper!) choice for local moves. Let’s break down the best way to get you settled in your new home.
DIY Move vs. Hiring Removalists: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re looking to save money and keep control of your move, renting a truck and handling the relocation yourself could be the perfect solution. DIY moves are typically far cheaper than hiring professional removalists – especially for local relocations – since you’re only paying for the truck rental and fuel, not labour. Additionally, you enjoy total flexibility in terms of timing, packing, and loading, eliminating the need to wait for a removalist’s schedule. Everything stays in your hands, from fragile items to last-minute changes.
In Australia, a standard car licence (Class C) lets you rent and drive a removal truck with up to 20 cubic metres of cargo space – plenty for a single person, couple, or small family moving a 2-3 bedroom home. No special permits or heavy vehicle licences are needed for most moving trucks, making DIY an accessible and budget-friendly option.
Of course, if you’d rather leave the heavy lifting to the pros, Brisbane has excellent removalists too—let’s compare the top choices.
Our Top 3 Brisbane Removalists Compared
1. Blue Truck Removals: Best for Affordable, No-Fuss Moves
As an independent local business (rather than a national franchise), Blue Truck Removals emphasises personalised service and attention to detail in their moves.
Pros:
✅ Operates as a smaller, Brisbane-based team
✅ Great for personal moves
✅ Standard service includes two movers, truck, and moving equipment
✅ Focuses on transparent pricing with all-inclusive quotes
✅ Clients like their clear communication, punctuality, and helpful packing crew
Logistics:
🚚 Advises booking 2–4 weeks in advance for preferred availability
🚚 Services most Brisbane suburbs
Website: bigbluetruck.com.au
2. Ben Moves Brisbane: Premium Service with Local Expertise
Operating for over 20 years, Ben Moves Brisbane has established itself as a long-standing removalist service in the region. The company emphasises experience and local knowledge in handling furniture and household moves.
Pros:
✅ Well-established removalist with two decades of Brisbane removalist operations
✅ Great for family and corporate moves
✅ Full-service moving solutions including packing and transport
✅ Clients frequently mention careful handling of fragile items and efficient service
Logistics:
🚚 Services cover Greater Brisbane and surrounding areas
🚚 Weekend and weekday availability (subject to booking)
Website: benmovesbrisbane.com.au
3. Two Men and a Truck: National, Full-Service Removalist
A national franchise operation with extensive resources across Australia, including over 85 trucks and 150 staff members. Their Brisbane branch brings large-scale logistics capabilities to local moves.
Pros:
✅ Full-service moving company with nationwide coverage
✅ Large fleet availability for flexible scheduling
✅ Clients note streamlined processes suited for complex or interstate relocations
Logistics:
🚚 Standard service includes truck, equipment, and crew
🚚 Offers both residential and commercial moving services
Website: twomen.com.au
How to Choose the Right Removalist for Your Move
Finding the right removalist comes down to understanding your specific needs.
Start by evaluating your budget. While DIY truck rentals offer the most affordable option for local moves, professional services provide convenience at varying price points, from local independents to national full-service companies.
To request an instant quote for a DIY moving truck, visit our booking form or call us 1300 13 14 29.
Next, consider the nature of your move: a small apartment relocation has different demands than an office move or interstate transfer, where logistics and specialised equipment matter more.
The value and fragility of your belongings also play a role. If you’re moving heirlooms, delicate art, or high-end electronics, you may prioritise removalists with proven packing expertise and insurance coverage. For standard furniture, most general services will suffice.
Finally, think about your comfort and fitness level—do you prefer hands-on control over loading and transport, or would you rather leave it to professionals? Don’t overlook your own willingness to tackle the move. If you (and a few helpful mates) don’t mind dedicating a weekend to packing, loading, and unloading, a DIY move can be a rewarding experience! Take into consideration the size of your move: heavy furniture, awkwardly shaped items, or multiple flights of stairs can turn enthusiasm into exhaustion. For those tougher scenarios, professional movers can be a worthy investment.
Before deciding, compare quotes carefully, read recent customer reviews, and clarify what’s included (like packing materials, travel fees, or insurance). A little research upfront ensures your move stays smooth, whether you’re driving the truck yourself or entrusting it to experts.
Brisbane Removalist FAQs
1. How far in advance should I book a removalist in Brisbane?
Most companies recommend booking 2–4 weeks ahead, especially during peak seasons (summer, end of month). Last-minute moves may limit options. A truck for a DIY move can usually be booked for the next day.
2. What’s the average cost of hiring removalists in Brisbane?
Local moves for a 2–3 bedroom home typically range $300–$800, depending on distance, volume, and services (packing, insurance). Always request itemised quotes. For comparison, a one-day truck rental starts at AU$150.00 / day.
3. Can I pack myself to save money?
Yes, but check if the removalist offers “loading-only” rates. Note: Self-packed items may not qualify for damage coverage.
4. Do Brisbane removalists handle interstate moves?
Many do, but national companies (e.g., Two Men and a Truck) often have dedicated interstate logistics. Confirm transit times and costs upfront. Interstate moves are usually a lot more expensive than local moves.
5. What size truck do I need for a DIY move?
A 3.5-tonne truck, which can be driven on a standard car licence, suits most 1–3 bedroom homes (standard licence required). Larger homes may need multiple trips or a bigger truck.
6. Are fragile items (e.g., pianos, artwork) covered by insurance?
Usually not automatically—declare high-value items beforehand and ask about specialty packing or extra coverage.
7. How do I avoid hidden fees?
Request all-inclusive quotes and confirm charges for stairs, long carry distances, or parking delays.