Moving to Australia from New Zealand

Moving your things to Australia can be an expensive exercise. There are 3 main options:

Take your luggage on the plane

Advantages:

• You will have your items with you as soon as you arrive in Australia

Disadvantages:

• There are weight and size restrictions around how much luggage you can travel with.
• If you carry more than the weight allowance on your ticket, you will be subject to additional charges from your airline. These are not cheap at around $10-$15 per kg.

Some tips to help you travel with more items:

• Take luggage into consideration when booking your ticket. One airline may offer a cheaper ticket, but charge more for checked in luggage making it more expensive for you in the long run.
• Wear lots of clothes. If you've got a big heavy winter jacket that takes up lots of suitcase space, wear it to the airport rather than packing it.
• Take a big carry on bag. You're usually allowed up to 7kgs carry-on luggage.

*Note: Weight and size allowances can differ between airlines. Check your airline booking information for the exact amounts permitted.

Post things to yourself (or a friend) in advance

Advantages:

• A good idea if you've just got a few things that you want to take but can't fit them in your suitcase.

Disadvantages:

• The costs to post items can be high (see the NZ Post website for current rates)
• You will have to wait for the items to arrive
• Posting items is difficult if you do not have a place to stay when you arrive in Australia - obviously you will need an address to send the items to.

Have things sent over with a moving company

Advantages:

• Everything in your house can be packed up in one container and sent over
• Moving companies often provide packing services to make the process easier. This also ensures that the moving/shipping company is liable for any damages (make sure you check easy companies policy regarding this).

Disadvantages:

• High costs. This will vary on the number of items you wish to ship and the moving company you choose. Generally charges start at around NZD$1500
• It can take a long time for your belongings to arrive. This can range from 3-6 weeks.

The following companies provide removal services and most offer online quotes:

• Crown Relocations
• NZ Van Lines
• Aus Move
• Conroy Removals Ltd
• Grace

Some other important things to remember:

• Consider the cost of the items you are taking. Unless they hold sentimental value, you don't want to end up paying more to relocate the items than you would have to pay to replace them.
• Keep expensive and sentimental items with you on the plane so that you can ensure they don't get lost or stolen. If you are unable to do this, make sure that they are insured.
• If you're paying a relocation company, check their insurance policies. They may charge you more for insurance if you pack your items yourself.