How to Choose the Best Time to Move in Melbourne

1. Consider the Melbourne Climate

Melbourne is known for its unpredictable weather, often changing several times within a single day. While the city's temperate climate can be appealing, it also means that the weather can have a significant impact on your move. You’ll need to factor in the seasons when deciding the best time to move.

a. Spring (September - November)

Spring is often regarded as one of the best times to move in Melbourne. The weather is relatively mild, not too hot or cold, which makes moving more comfortable. Additionally, spring in Melbourne often brings more sunny days and longer daylight hours, allowing you to work for longer periods.

However, spring is also a popular time for many people to move, which can make removalist services busier and more expensive. If you decide to move in spring, be sure to book removalists well in advance.

b. Summer (December - February)

While Melbourne’s summer can offer great weather for outdoor activities, it can also bring extreme heat, with temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C (86°F). Moving in hot weather can be uncomfortable, and it can be challenging to keep your belongings safe, especially delicate items like electronics, artwork, or wooden furniture.

Summer is also a peak season for moving, so removalist companies may charge higher rates, and availability might be limited. If you choose to move during summer, it’s important to schedule the move early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat of the day.

c. Autumn (March - May)

Autumn in Melbourne offers cooler but still mild temperatures, making it another great time to move. The weather is typically more predictable than in the spring, and the city isn’t as crowded as during the peak summer months. During autumn, the city sees fewer tourists, and removalist companies are less in demand compared to the busier summer months, meaning you might find better deals and availability.

Additionally, autumn is a good time for those who are looking to settle before the end-of-year holidays. It's a great season for clearing out the old to make space for the new.

d. Winter (June - August)

While winter in Melbourne is relatively cold, it rarely experiences the freezing temperatures seen in other parts of the country, making it a viable option for moving. However, there is a higher chance of rain and wind during these months, which can make moving more challenging. On the upside, winter is the off-season for removalist companies, which means you’re more likely to find discounts or lower rates for your move.

If you’re flexible with your move date and can handle the potential wet weather, winter can be the most budget-friendly time to move.

2. Availability of Removalists and Moving Companies

The availability of professional removalists is another key consideration when determining the best time to move. The demand for removal services fluctuates throughout the year, and the timing of your move can affect how easily you can secure a removalist.

a. Peak Moving Season

The peak season for moving in Melbourne tends to be during the summer months, particularly in December and January. This period coincides with school holidays, university break, and the end of the financial year, all of which contribute to a higher demand for moving services. If you plan to move during peak season, make sure to book your removalists well in advance to secure your preferred moving date. Prices are also generally higher during these months due to the increased demand for moving services.

b. Off-Peak Moving Season

Autumn and winter are generally considered the off-peak season for moving. During these months, removalists are less busy, meaning you’ll have a greater chance of securing last-minute bookings, and the overall cost of moving is likely to be lower. If you’re flexible with your dates and willing to work around potentially cooler or wetter weather, moving during the off-peak months can help you save money while still ensuring a smooth moving process.

c. Midweek Moves

If you have flexibility regarding the day of the week, consider scheduling your move during the middle of the week—either on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Weekends are typically the busiest times for removalists, with many people preferring to move when they don’t have work commitments. By choosing a midweek day, you can often secure better rates, more available removalists, and an overall less stressful experience. The earlier in the day, the better, as moving in the morning tends to be more efficient.

3. Traffic and Accessibility in Melbourne

Melbourne’s traffic can be notorious, especially during rush hour, and can significantly affect the time and ease of your move. It’s essential to consider how traffic might impact your move, both in terms of time and costs.

a. Avoiding Peak Traffic Hours

Melbourne’s peak traffic hours typically occur between 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM on weekdays. If your move requires using busy roads like the Monash Freeway, West Gate Bridge, or CityLink, be sure to plan around these busy periods to avoid delays. Consider starting your move as early as possible, ideally before 7:30 AM, or schedule it later in the day when traffic is lighter.

b. Access to Your New Home

In addition to traffic, you’ll also want to consider the accessibility of your new property. For example, many Melbourne properties are located in inner-city areas with narrow streets, limited parking, and busy traffic. If your new home is in a congested area, it’s advisable to check with your removalists about parking restrictions, permits, or the need for a smaller moving vehicle.

For apartment moves, you may need to coordinate elevator access, especially if you’re moving during peak hours. Plan ahead to avoid delays during these critical moments.

4. Personal Factors: Budget, Work Schedule, and Family Needs

Finally, choosing the best time to move in Melbourne also depends on your personal circumstances. Several factors should be considered in relation to your family, budget, and work schedule.

a. Work Schedule and Family Commitments

If you have a job with fixed work hours, or if your children are in school, you may want to plan your move during a time when your schedule is least disrupted. School holidays, long weekends, and public holidays may seem convenient, but they can often lead to higher moving costs. If possible, plan your move during a time that is more flexible and doesn’t interfere with important family or work commitments.

b. Budget Considerations

Your budget should also play a role in determining when to move. If you’re trying to save money, consider moving during the off-peak months (autumn or winter) when removalists often offer discounted rates. Additionally, moving midweek can be more cost-effective than on weekends.

5. Check Melbourne’s Event Calendar

Melbourne is a bustling city that hosts numerous events throughout the year, from festivals to major sporting events, concerts, and conferences. These events can impact the availability of removalists, the cost of parking, and road traffic. Before finalizing your move date, check the local event calendar to ensure there are no major events (such as the Australian Open, Grand Prix, or Moomba Festival) that could disrupt your plans.

Conclusion

Choosing the best time to move in Melbourne is about balancing several factors: weather, removalist availability, traffic conditions, and your personal circumstances. For most people, the sweet spot is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and removalists are less likely to be busy. However, if you’re looking to save money, consider moving during winter, even though the weather can be less predictable. By planning ahead, being flexible with your moving date, and considering both the practical and personal elements of the move, you’ll ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation to your new home in Melbourne.