Can you move house with a trailer?
Absolutely, and it's often the most cost-effective option for apartment or bedroom moves. Hiring a trailer can work out cheaper than a removalist. The trade-off is that you do the packing, loading, and driving yourself.
What size trailer do you need?
The right trailer size depends on how much stuff you're moving:
- Studio or single bedroom: an 8×5 cage or box trailer can handle a one-bedroom move, especially if you do it in two or three loads.
- Two-bedroom: a 10×5 trailer or two loads with an 8×5. Consider the weight of beds, wardrobes, and appliances, and check the trailer's compliance plate or ask the owner what it can carry.
- Three bedroom+: multiple trips or a large enclosed trailer. Alternatively, hire a small truck.
What to hire: cage vs enclosed?
A cage trailer works for many moves. You can load from the top, and it's easier to manoeuvre furniture. Use an enclosed trailer if it's raining on moving day or if you have fragile or valuable items that need protection.
How to load a trailer for moving
- Heaviest items first, lowest: fridge, washing machine, and heavy furniture go in first, directly over or near the axle.
- Furniture standing upright: mattresses and large flat items leaned against the sides save floor space.
- Fill gaps with boxes: pack boxes tightly to prevent shifting.
- Tie everything down: use ratchet straps over the top of your load. Even short distances can see unsecured items shift. There are rules about restraining loads and they differ between states, so check with your state road authority.
How long do you need the trailer?
A single-bedroom move can take half a day with help. Book the trailer for a full day. It gives you buffer time if things run over. For larger moves, book for two days so you're not rushing.
Save money tips
- Book midweek. Hire can be cheaper outside the weekend, and each owner sets their own price, so the listing shows the current one
- Do one big load rather than multiple small trips to save fuel
- Borrow a friend's ute for small items and use the trailer only for large pieces
- Disassemble flat-pack furniture to maximise space