Relocating from the UK to Australia is a significant life decision — whether you’re chasing the sunshine, returning home, or joining loved ones. But what about the cost?
International removals involve a series of expenses beyond shipping alone. This detailed guide breaks down those costs and outlines how John Mason International can help make your move smooth, cost-effective, and stress-free.
Shipping Options: What’s Right for Your Move?
Your shipping method plays a major role in determining the overall cost and logistics.
Shared Container (Groupage): If you’re not shipping enough to fill an entire container, your items can be consolidated with other customers’ goods headed to the same destination. This is a cost-effective option for smaller moves, but keep in mind that transit times can be longer due to the need to coordinate multiple shipments.
Sole-Use Container: For larger households, a 20ft or 40ft container offers exclusive use. This gives you greater flexibility in terms of packing, departure dates, and delivery. It’s more expensive than groupage but ideal for families or customers wanting a more direct service.
Typical Shipping Costs from the UK to Australia:
- 1-Bedroom Flat: £1,500 – £3,200
- 2-Bedroom House: £3,000 – £5,500
- 3-Bedroom House: £4,500 – £6,500
- 4-Bedroom House: £5,800 – £9,000
- 5-Bedroom House: £9,000 – £14,400
Estimates will vary depending on your origin, final destination, and any added services.
Packing Services: Time-Saving vs. Cost-Saving
How you choose to pack will affect both cost and risk.
Self-Packing: While cheaper up front, this option can be time-consuming. You’ll need to source materials, label everything accurately, and be aware that damage to self-packed items is often not covered by insurance.
Professional Packing: John Mason International’s trained packing crews ensure your belongings are properly protected for their long journey. Professional packing reduces the risk of damage and speeds up customs processes — especially valuable for fragile or high-value items.
Customs and Quarantine: Essential Rules for Entry
Australia enforces strict biosecurity laws. Preparing your items in advance can prevent costly delays or fines.
Customs Clearance: Most household goods are exempt from import duty if they’ve been owned and used for more than 12 months. You’ll need to complete a customs declaration (UPE form) and submit a clear inventory.
Quarantine Inspection: Outdoor gear, wooden furniture, sporting goods, and anything with soil or organic material is subject to inspection by the Department of Agriculture. These items may need to be professionally cleaned or treated, at your expense.
Restricted or Prohibited Items: Avoid packing fresh food, untreated wood, seeds, and cultural artefacts without checking their import status. John Mason International will advise on what can and can’t be shipped.
Insurance: Cover for What Matters Most
Even the best international removals companies can’t control every factor — from port delays to unpredictable weather. Insurance is your safety net.
Comprehensive Insurance Cover: John Mason International offers tailored insurance options that protect your belongings from door to door. Our team will explain the available cover levels so you can choose what’s right for you and your shipment.
Additional Costs to Keep in Mind
Visa Fees: Visa applications can range from AUD $485 (Working Holiday) to over AUD $7,700 (Partner or PR visas). It’s important to factor this into your moving budget.
Flights: Flights from the UK to Australia typically cost between £500–£1,000 one way, depending on season and booking time.
Temporary Accommodation: If your shipment takes several weeks to arrive, you may need short-term housing. John Mason International can help you coordinate your timeline to reduce the need for extended accommodation.
Storage: Short or long-term storage in the UK or Australia can be arranged if your move-in date doesn’t line up with your shipment. This service is fully secure and flexible.
Cost of Living Adjustments: Cities like Sydney and Melbourne have a high cost of living. Make sure you account for temporary higher spending in your early months, especially if you’re job hunting.
Why Choose John Mason International?
With over 140 years of experience, John Mason International is one of the UK’s most trusted names in overseas removals.
We offer:
Personal Move Managers to guide you throughout your relocation
Accurate quotes using virtual home surveys
Transparent, customised pricing with no hidden fees
Industry-leading standards with FIDI FAIM, BAR, and IAM accreditation
Expertise in shipping to Australia, including door-to-door solutions
We’re not just movers — we’re part of your journey. Whether you’re sending a small shipment or relocating your whole home, we treat your move like it’s our own.
Moving to Australia from the UK is a big leap — emotionally, logistically, and financially. But with the right planning and a specialist international removals partner, it can be a confident and positive experience.
John Mason International is here to take care of the details, so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
Wherever we take your world, you’re at the centre of ours.
