Like many South Australians, trading in Adelaide’s historic architecture for the buzzing NSW capital may be something that you've been contemplating for a while. But knowing how to smoothly move interstate can be a challenge. This guide will give you all you need to know about moving from Adelaide to Sydney, from understanding Sydney's cost of living to finding the best interstate removalists to help get you there.
No matter your reason for moving, consider this guide your complete roadmap from Adelaide to Sydney.
Why are people moving to Sydney?
Home to some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, the city is flocked with new residents from all over Australia and the world every single day. But it's not just the Sydney Opera House or Harbour Bridge that's giving Sydney the largest population in Australia. Then what is, you ask?
Busy job market
As an economic powerhouse, many relocate to Sydney for it's thriving job market. There are countless multinational companies, start-ups and a diverse range of industries. There are lots of opportunity for those who are willing to take it.
The dream lifestyle
Sydney’s lifestyle options are also a great sales point for those wanting a fresh start. There's a diverse landscape in Sydney, and a variety of different living styles, from ocean ease to corporate rush. A perfected balance of lifestyle options, Sydney continues to capture the attention of so many.
The drawback? Cost of living
Despite the desirable lifestyle and career options, there is one main drawback of living in Sydney that should be considered first: The cost of living.
Unfortunately, high demand in Sydney means that housing prices and general living costs are greater. You'll see prices rise the closer you are to the coast, like in the Eastern Suburbs and Northern Beaches.
So, if you’re not ready to cut down on brunches or are after an apartment that doesn't cost you your week's wages, then you may wish to look at Sydney’s more affordable neighbourhoods in the west. The Western suburbs balance city connections with affordability, offering charming character and a buzzing cultural scene.
Knowing what Sydney suburbs meet your needs best will help you to create your dream life. It is also important to note that whilst the cost of living in Sydney is higher than that of Adelaide, the average salary is also higher.
How much does it cost to move from Adelaide to Sydney?
Creating a budget for your move from Adelaide to Sydney should be a top priority. Speaking directly with Adelaide removalists can help clarify how much it will cost to move from Adelaide to Sydney. Make sure to discuss the questions below that will affect the cost of your move:
- Do you have pets that will need relocating?
- Do you need a consolidated or VIP Service? (big moves or quick turnaround will usually need a VIP service)
- Will you need a car moved?
- Is it worth investing in a white glove removals service? (covering all aspects of your move)
- Will you need interim storage?
Adelaide to Sydney moving checklist
Now you know what life in Sydney and moving costs are like. Your next step is to break down what will need to do before your move from Adelaide to Sydney. One of the best ways to do this is to create a full moving checklist. Whilst this should be tailored to your specific needs, all checklists should include:
- Booking in Interstate Removalists
- Organising pet transfer (some removalists can do this for you)
- Finding new doctors/ schools in your area
- Booking in storage
- Booking flights/organising personal travel
- Updating addresses on important documents e.g. driver's license/ medicare card
- Notify utility providers
- Booking interstate vehicle transfer
- Packing or setting up for professional packers (if using packing services)
- Saying farewell to loved ones
Your checklist should help you navigate the process so that when you’re two weeks out from moving and can’t remember what you had for breakfast, you’ll have a detailed checklist to refer back to.
The best interstate removalists
Your interstate removalists can be the make or break your transition from Adelaide to Sydney. Knowing what to look for in good Adelaide interstate removalists can be tricky - there are so many to pick from!
The fastest ways to know a good removalist from a bad one is by checking for:
- AFRA-accreditation: Only reputable companies in Australia will be AFRA-accredited, with professional training and accountability.
- Experience and customer reviews: Are there plenty of positive customer reviews, especially from people who have done the same interstate relocation as you?
- Cheapness: For an interstate move, you want to weigh up the pros and cons of opting for a cheaper moving company. Often the pricier ones are the more experienced, trustworthy removalists.
Choosing a cheap removals company is like choosing a budget airline. Yes, you may you've cut back a few dollars by booking the cheapest flights possible. But, this often comes with unforeseen costs (like a $35 bottle of water and soggy sandwich) and even disruptions to your journey.
The truly dependable companies may cost a little more upfront, but it's usually a full-service journey: no surprise extra fees, no soggy sandwiches and certainly no damage or disruption along the way. Seems like a no-brainer doesn’t it?
Flying vs driving
Adelaide removalists will be able to move anything from a piano to an antique art collection, but what they can’t move, unfortunately, is you.
Just as you've weighed up all your options for relocating your home, it's important to weigh up how you will get there yourself. Flying and driving both have their own pros and cons.
| Flying | Driving | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Saves a lot of time | Don't have to pay for flight tickets or car transfer |
| Cons | Can't bring pets or car | 14-hour, unpredictable drive |
What’s next
With a thorough plan made and all transportation covered, all that is left is to start setting up your new life in Sydney. If you are arriving in Sydney with a car the main thing that needs to be organised is transferring the rego over from SA to NSW.
How to register a car in NSW from interstate
Here are three key steps to register a car in NSW. For all state-specific guides, check out how to change your drivers licence to another state.
- Organise a blue slip inspection.
- Buy compulsory third-party (CTP) insurance
- Go to Service NSW or motor registry in NSW with personal identity documents and fees required.
Once your car is registered in NSW you will be free to drive around and begin exploring your new home. It’s a good idea to get out and connect with the community as early as you can to help settle in and begin building a new life.
Final thoughts
Moving interstate is not easy, but by considering these important factors, you can ensure that your move will be stress-free and straightforward. Choosing the right interstate removalists to help you on your way will make the journey to your new home one you can truly enjoy.
Get a quote today for your move from Adelaide to Sydney or give us a call on 1300 066 327 and speak to one of our moving experts to find out more.
