So you’re planning a big move. Maybe interstate. Maybe across town. Either way, you’ve landed on the idea of using a shipping container. Smart move.
But now you’re stuck on the big question. How much does it cost to move a 20ft container?
Honestly? There’s no single price tag. The cost to move a shipping container depends on a bunch of things. Distance. Location. The type of service you pick. Even the time of year matters. We’ve helped thousands of customers at Six Brothers Removalists pack up and relocate across Australia. So we know this stuff inside out. This guide breaks down every cost, every factor, and every option. No fluff. No guesswork. Just real numbers and straight talk. Let’s get into it.
What Is a 20ft Shipping Container and Why Use One for Moving?
A 20ft container is the standard unit in the shipping industry. It’s roughly 6 metres long. That’s enough space to fit the belongings of a typical 2-3 bedroom house.
Think of it like a giant steel box. It’s built to handle long distances on trucks, trains, and ships. That’s why it’s such a popular option for interstate moves and relocation jobs across Australia.
Why do people choose container transport?
A self-pack container is perfect if you want to handle the loading yourself. You pack it. The company picks it up. They deliver it to your new location. Simple.
Some folks also use a 20ft container for container storage. Maybe your new place isn’t ready yet. You store it at a facility until you need it. We see this all the time with customers moving from Sydney to Melbourne or Sydney to Brisbane.
There are also 40ft sizes available. But for most household moves, a standard 20ft does the job. It fits furniture, boxes, equipment, and all those random items you forgot you owned.
As the old saying goes, “don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” But with a 20ft container? You kind of can. And it works.
Average Cost to Move a 20ft Container Across Australia
Let’s talk numbers. Because that’s what you’re really here for. The average cost to move a 20ft shipping container in Australia sits between $2,000 and $7,000. That’s a wide range, we know. But it depends on where you’re going and what service you choose.
Here’s a rough breakdown by route:
Short distance (under 100km): $800 – $2,000 Mid-range (100–500km): $2,000 – $4,000 Interstate container moves (500km+): $3,500 – $7,000+ Remote area delivery: $5,000 – $9,000+
These prices typically include basic container hire, transport, and delivery. But extra fees can stack up fast. Insurance, loading assistance, parking permits. We’ll cover all those shortly. The rate also shifts based on fuel costs. When diesel prices spike, container transport gets more expensive. That’s just how logistics works in this industry.
Pro tip: Always compare at least 3 quotes before booking. The price difference between providers can be huge. We’re talking hundreds of dollars. Sometimes thousands.
At Six Brothers Removalists, we offer a free quote with no strings attached. Ring us on 1300 764 372 or shoot an email to info@sixbrothersremovalist.com.au. We’ll give you an honest number.
Key Factors That Determine Shipping Container Moving Costs
Why is the price so different from one quote to the next? Because every move is unique. Here are the main factors that determine your total moving costs.
Distance Is the Biggest Cost Driver
This one’s obvious. The further you go, the more you pay. A container move from Sydney to Canberra costs way less than Sydney to Adelaide. Long distances mean more fuel, more driver hours, and more wear on equipment. Interstate moves always cost more than local ones. That’s just math.
Your Pickup and Delivery Location
Where exactly is the container going? City centre? Easy. Remote farmland two hours from the nearest highway? That’ll cost extra. Access matters too. Can a truck fit down your street? Is there parking for a large vehicle? Tight areas or steep driveways might need special equipment. That bumps up the rate.
Type of Service You Choose
A basic container hire where you self-pack is the most affordable option. But if you need professional removal help with loading and unloading, expect to pay more. Full-service moving services include packing, loading, transport, and unpacking. Convenient? Absolutely. But convenience comes at a price.
Time of Year and Demand
Summer is peak moving season in Australia. December through February gets crazy busy. Prices go up. Availability goes down. If you can plan your move for a quieter period, you’ll likely score a better rate. Autumn and winter moves tend to be cheaper.
Container Condition and Type
Are you hiring a new container or a used one? New units cost more. Some companies offer different types of containers. Standard, high-cube, refrigerated. For most household moves, a standard 20ft container does the trick.
Interstate Container Transport: What You Need to Know
Moving interstate is a whole different ball game. It’s not just about distance. There’s planning, logistics, and a bunch of rules to follow.
Interstate container transport across Australia usually involves road freight. A truck picks up your container and drives it to your new state. Some companies also offer rail transport for long distances. It’s slower but sometimes cheaper.
Popular Interstate Routes and Estimated Costs
| Route | Estimated Price Range |
| Sydney to Melbourne | $3,000 – $5,500 |
| Sydney to Brisbane | $2,800 – $5,000 |
| Sydney to Adelaide | $4,000 – $6,500 |
| Sydney to Canberra | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Melbourne to Brisbane | $4,500 – $7,000 |
These are ballpark figures. Your actual quote will depend on the factors we just talked about.
Interstate moves need more planning ahead. You’ll want to book at least 2-4 weeks in advance. Especially during busy periods. Last-minute bookings often come with a premium charge.
Here’s something people miss. Interstate container moves sometimes require permits. Oversized loads on certain routes need government approval. Your provider should handle this. But always ask.
At Six Brothers Removalists, we specialise in interstate removals right across Australia. From Sydney to Wollongong or Sydney to Port Macquarie. We’ve got the routes covered.
Door-to-Door Container Delivery vs Depot-to-Depot
You’ve got two main options here. And the one you pick affects your budget big time.
Door-to-Door Service
This is the convenient choice. The company delivers the container to your door. You pack it. They pick it up and deliver it to your new address. Easy.
Door-to-door delivery saves you time and stress. No need to drive to a depot. No need to hire extra help. It’s the most popular option for families and busy professionals.
But it costs more. You’re paying for that convenience. The driver needs to navigate to your specific location. Twice.
Depot-to-Depot Service
With this option, you drop your belongings at a depot or facility. The company transports the container between depots. You pick up at the other end.
It’s cheaper. But you’ll need your own transport to get stuff to and from each depot. Plus the loading and unloading is on you.
Which one should you choose?
If you’re moving a whole house interstate, door-to-door makes life easier. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind the extra effort, depot-to-depot can save you a fair bit.
Self-Pack Container Services: Are They Worth It?
Is doing it yourself actually cheaper? Let’s find out.
A self-pack container service means you handle the packing and loading. The company handles the transport. You save on labour costs. They handle the heavy lifting (literally, the driving part).
Pros of Self-Pack
- Lower price. No paying for packers or loaders.
- You pack your belongings your way.
- You control the timeline. Pack over a weekend or a week.
- Your items stay in one secure container the entire trip.
Cons of Self-Pack
- It’s hard work. Especially with heavy furniture.
- Bad packing can lead to damage. No professional assistance.
- You’ll need packing materials. Boxes, tape, blankets, straps.
For a 20ft container, expect the self-pack option to cost $1,500 – $4,500 for interstate moves. Compare that to full-service removal which can run $5,000 – $10,000+. That’s a solid saving. But only if you pack properly. A poorly packed container is a recipe for broken stuff. And broken stuff is expensive stuff.
Our take? If you’ve got the time and some mates to help, a self-pack container is a brilliant option. If you’d rather not risk it, our team at Six Brothers Removalists can handle everything for you.
Hidden Fees and Extra Charges You Should Know About
Nobody likes surprise fees. Yet they pop up in almost every moving quote. Here’s what to watch for.
Fuel Surcharges
Most companies add a fuel surcharge on top of the base rate. It fluctuates with diesel prices. Ask your provider if fuel is included in the quote.
Parking and Access Fees
Need a container dropped on a busy street? You might need a parking permit from your local council. That’s an extra fee. Some areas charge $50-$200 for temporary parking. If access is tricky (narrow streets, low-hanging trees), special equipment might be needed. That costs extra too.
Insurance
Basic transit insurance is sometimes included. But it might not cover everything. If you’re moving valuable items or furniture, consider purchasing additional cover. Transit insurance for a 20ft container typically runs $150 – $500 depending on the value of your belongings.
Storage Fees
Need your container stored at a facility before delivery? Storage rates vary. Expect $20 – $60 per week for container storage at most locations in Australia. Long-term storage gets discounted at some facilities. But it still adds up.
Loading and Unloading Help
If you booked a self-pack but realise you can’t handle the loading, extra labour is usually available. But it’s charged separately. Typically $50 – $80 per hour per person.
Permit Fees
Some interstate routes and remote areas require special permits. Your company should tell you upfront if you need a permit. The fee varies by state and route.
Bottom line: Always ask for a detailed breakdown. A good company won’t hide charges from you. At Six Brothers Removalists, our quotes are transparent. What we quote is what you pay.
How to Compare Container Moving Quotes the Right Way
Getting multiple quotes is smart. But comparing them the wrong way wastes your time.
What to Look for in a Quote
Not all quotes are created equal. Here’s how to compare like a pro.
1. Check what’s included. Does the quote cover container hire, transport, delivery, and insurance? Or are those separate line items?
2. Compare the same service type. Don’t compare a door-to-door quote with a depot-to-depot one. Apples to apples.
3. Look at the fine print. Are there cancellation fees? Weight limits? Extra charges for remote areas?
4. Read customer reviews. A cheap quote from a dodgy provider isn’t a bargain. It’s a headache.
5. Ask about the timeline. How long will the container move take? Some companies offer faster delivery at a premium. Others are slower but cheaper.
Quick Comparison Checklist
Here’s what to compare across each quote:
Would you buy a car without test-driving it first? Same logic applies here. Don’t commit without doing your homework.
We encourage every customer to compare us against other providers. We’re confident our rates and service stack up. Get your free quote at 1300 764 372.
Do You Need a Permit to Move a Shipping Container?
Short answer? Sometimes.
It depends on your location, the route, and the size of the container. Here’s the deal.
When You Might Need a Permit
Who Handles the Permit?
A professional moving company should handle permit requirements for you. That’s part of the service. If a provider expects you to sort it out yourself, that’s a red flag.
At Six Brothers Removalists, we take care of all permit needs. We’ve been doing this long enough to know every route and every requirement across Australia.
What Does a Permit Cost?
Permit fees range from $30 to $250 depending on the council and the duration. Some areas are stricter than others.
Do you really need a permit if the container is only there for a few hours? Maybe not technically. But getting caught without one means fines. And fines are always more expensive than the permit itself.
Always play it safe. Let your provider handle it.
Tips to Reduce Your Container Transport Costs
Want to keep costs down? Here are some practical ways to save money on your next container move.
1. Book early. Last-minute moves cost more. Plan ahead and lock in your rate at least 3-4 weeks out.
2. Move off-peak. Avoid December through February. Winter moves are almost always cheaper. Less demand means lower prices.
3. Declutter before you pack. Less stuff means a smaller container. Or more efficient packing. Either way, you save. Don’t pay to move junk you’ll toss later.
4. Pack smart. Use every bit of space in the container. Stack boxes tight. Fill gaps with soft items like blankets and pillows. Efficient packing means fewer container moves.
5. Compare quotes. We said it before. We’ll say it again. Get at least 3 quotes and compare them properly.
6. Ask about backloading. Interstate backloading is when a truck is returning from a delivery and has empty space. You fill that space at a discount. It’s one of the most affordable ways to move interstate.
7. Handle loading yourself. Self-pack to skip labour costs. Just make sure you pack safely and secure everything properly.
8. Bundle services. Some companies offer discounts when you bundle transport with container storage or packing materials. Ask about package deals.
9. Check for seasonal offers. Companies sometimes run promotions during slow periods. Keep an eye out.
10. Choose the right container size. Don’t hire a 20ft if you only need half the space. Some providers offer smaller options. The right fit keeps your budget in check.
Container Storage Options Before or After Your Move
Sometimes your move doesn’t line up perfectly. Your new place isn’t ready. Or you need time to sort things out. That’s where container storage comes in.
How Container Storage Works
Your packed container gets dropped at a secure storage facility. It stays there until you’re ready for delivery. Simple. Most facilities offer short-term and long-term storage. Short-term is anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Long-term can stretch to months.
What Does Container Storage Cost?
Storage rates depend on the location and facility. Here’s a rough guide: Some providers include a few days of free storage in the quote. Always ask.
Is Your Container Secure in Storage?
Good facilities have 24/7 security, CCTV, and controlled access. Your belongings should be as secure in storage as they are in your own home. Maybe even more so. What if you need to access your stuff while it’s stored? Some facilities allow it. Others don’t. Check before you commit.
At Six Brothers Removalists, we offer flexible container storage across multiple locations in Australia. Whether you need a week or a few months, we’ve got you covered. Our storage facilities are secure, clean, and affordable.
Why Choose Six Brothers Removalists for Your Container Move?
Look, we know you’ve got options. There are plenty of moving companies out there. So why pick us?
We Know Container Transport Inside and Out
We’ve been in the removal and relocation business for years. We handle everything from studio apartment moves to full interstate relocation jobs. Container transport is one of our core services.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. No sneaky charges. When we give you a quote, that’s the price you pay. We certify every quote with a detailed breakdown so you know exactly where your money goes.
Australia-Wide Coverage
We service over 600 locations across Australia. From Sydney to Gosford. Sydney to Orange. And everywhere in between. Metro, regional, and remote areas. We deliver.
Professional Team
Our drivers are experienced. Our equipment is maintained. Our customer service team actually picks up the phone. We handle your belongings like they’re our own.
Flexible Options
Need door-to-door? Done. Self-pack? Easy. Container storage? Sorted. We offer every type of service to match your needs and budget.
Real Reviews from Real People
Don’t just take our word for it. Our customers consistently rate us as one of the most reliable and affordable moving providers in the industry. That’s the kind of trust you can’t fake.
Ready to get moving? Call us on 1300 764 372 Email: info@sixbrothersremovalist.com.au Visit us: Suite 1, Level 5, 58/60 Macquarie St, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia Get your free quote today. No pressure. No obligation. Just honest pricing and professional service.
Plan Smart, Move Smarter
Moving a 20ft container across Australia doesn’t have to drain your wallet. The key? Know what affects the cost. Compare your options. And choose a provider you can actually trust. Whether you’re moving interstate from Sydney to Melbourne, shifting to a remote area, or just need temporary container storage, there’s a service and a price point that fits.
At Six Brothers Removalists, we make container transport simple, affordable, and stress-free. We’ve helped thousands of customers across Australia. We’d love to help you too. As they say, measure twice, cut once. The same goes for moving. Do your research. Get your quotes. And when you’re ready, give us a call. Six Brothers Removalists Phone: 1300 764 372 Email: info@sixbrothersremovalist.com.au Address: Suite 1, Level 5, 58/60 Macquarie St, Parramatta NSW 2150, Australia
