Author: Jen Avelino

Starting a removals business is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to capitalise on the growing demand for relocation services. However, like any business venture, it requires careful planning and execution to ensure success. 

A couple of questions arise when starting a removals business. Do I need a license to start a moving company? What permits do I need to start a moving company? How do I find the right audience?

In this article, we’ll answer these questions, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to start a removalist business. We’ll also share valuable insights and tips to help you navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities in this industry.

• Step 1: Identify the market of your removals business
• Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the removals industry
• Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the removals industry
• Step 4: Explore funding options for your removals business
• Step 5: Develop a strategic removals business plan
• Step 6: Register your removals business
• Step 7: Hire your removalists
• Step 8: Invest in the right removal tools and equipment
• Step 9: Find clients for your removals business
• Step 10: Get paid for your removal services!
• Kickstart your removals business – join Oneflare today! 

Step 1: Identify the market of your removals business

Before you plan any further steps, it’s crucial to understand the market you intend to serve. In this stage, you need to understand the various types of moving services so you can choose the right niche based on your expertise, skills, and preferences.

Explore different types of removal and moving services

There are different types of removal and moving services, and each of them caters to a specific market segment.

Full-service moving

Full service moving offers a complete range of services from packing and loading to transportation and unloading at the destination. These services typically handle residential and commercial moves, catering to those who prefer a hassle-free experience and are willing to pay a premium so they don’t forget any important moving needs

Furniture moving 

Furniture moving is a specialised service that focuses solely on transporting large furniture items, such as sofas, beds, and wardrobes. It’s a suitable choice for customers who need to move only a few large pieces of furniture. For this service, you need to have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle bulky and heavy items.

Local removalist

As a local removalist, you would focus on providing services within a specific geographical area, typically a city or town. This type of business caters to customers who are moving locally and require assistance with packing, loading, transportation, and unloading. Local removalists can offer competitive pricing due to their focus on short-distance moves and familiarity with the local area.

Interstate removalist

An interstate removalist refers to a removals company or business that specialises in long-distance moves across different states or territories. These businesses typically have a fleet of large trucks equipped to handle long-haul transportation, as well as the necessary permits and licenses to operate across multiple jurisdictions. Interstate removalists cater to customers who are relocating to a new state or region, often for employment or personal reasons.

Regional removalists

Regional removalists offer moving services within a specific region or area, spanning multiple cities or towns. These businesses cater to customers who are relocating within a particular region, whether it’s for work, family, or other reasons. Regional removalists have a deep understanding of the local areas they serve, which can be advantageous in terms of route planning and navigating local regulations.

Office relocation services

Office relocation services are perfect for businesses and organisations that need to relocate their office premises. For this service, you need to be equipped with the right techniques for moving an entire office,  including disassembling and reassembling furniture, safely transporting office equipment and electronics, and minimising downtime to ensure business continuity. 

These services are often tailored to the client’s specific needs, considering factors such as the size of the office, the nature of the business, and any specific requirements or regulations that need to be met.

Packing and unpacking services

Packing and unpacking services involve professional movers handling the entire packing process and unpacking household or office items. The services include packing fragile items, disassembling and reassembling furniture, and ensuring that all belongings are securely packed for safe transportation. Packing and unpacking are useful for customers who want to save time and reduce stress during the moving process. 

Specialised removals

Specialised removals refer to services that cater to the relocation of specific types of items or belongings that require specialised handling, equipment, or expertise. Examples include moving a piano, fine art and antique items, pool tables, or hot tubs and spas. These niche services are typically offered by removalists who have received specialised training and have invested in the necessary equipment to handle such delicate or unique items safely and efficiently.

Storage and removals services

Storage and removal services combine the convenience of temporary storage solutions with the expertise of professional movers. These services are helpful for customers who need to store their belongings for a while during the moving process or for those who require additional storage space.

Removalists offering storage services often have secure and climate-controlled facilities where customers can safely store their household items, furniture, or office equipment. These storage units are available in various sizes to accommodate different needs and can be rented on a short-term or long-term basis.

Interstate backloading services

Interstate backloading services refer to a cost-effective way of transporting goods over long distances. Removalists often consolidate multiple smaller shipments into a single large truck or container, which is then transported to the destination. This allows customers to share the cost of transportation, making it more affordable for those moving interstate or across the country.

Backloading services are particularly useful for moving a smaller volume of goods, or a few pieces of furniture or household items, which is an essential part of any moving interstate checklist. Instead of paying for a full truck or container, they can take advantage of the available space in a larger shipment that is already scheduled to travel to their desired destination.

Choose your removals business niche

Now that you understand the different types of removal and moving services, it’s essential to identify your niche within the industry. This will help you solidify your specific role as a removalist, target the right customers, and differentiate yourself from competitors.

Specialised furniture and item removal business niche

Moving and removing specialised furniture items are perfect if you have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle bulky, delicate, or antique pieces. This niche allows you to cater to customers who value the safe and professional handling of their prized possessions, such as heirlooms, artwork, or high-end furniture.

• Pros: Ability to command higher prices for specialised services, the potential for repeat business from satisfied customers with prized possessions, and an opportunity to develop strong relationships with antique dealers, art galleries, or high-end furniture retailers as referral sources.
• Cons: Higher risk of damage to valuable items, specialised equipment and training may be required, smaller target market compared to general moving services.

Office and corporate relocation niche

If you prefer working with businesses and organisations, the office and corporate relocation niche could be an excellent fit. This specialised service caters to companies that need to relocate their entire operations, including office furniture, equipment, and sensitive documents.

• Pros: Potential for larger and more lucrative contracts, opportunity to establish long-term relationships with businesses as a trusted partner, steady workflow with scheduled office moves, potential for recurring business from clients expanding or downsizing.
• Cons: Strict deadlines and time constraints, need for specialised equipment and training for handling sensitive materials and equipment, potential liability for any downtime or disruption to client operations.

Interstate and regional removals business niche

An interstate and regional removal business can be a good option if you’re willing to take on long-distance moves. This niche involves transporting belongings across state or regional borders, often over significant distances. It caters to individuals, families, or businesses relocating to a new city or state.

• Pros: Potential for larger-scale moves and higher revenue, opportunity to establish a reputation as a reliable long-distance mover, ability to serve a broader geographic area, potential for recurring business from clients who move frequently.
• Cons: Longer travel times and increased fuel costs, need for specialised equipment and logistics for long-distance moves, the potential for delays due to weather or road conditions, and more complex scheduling and coordination across multiple locations.

Eco-friendly removals business niche

Catering to eco-conscious clients is a growing trend in the removal industry. This niche focuses on environmentally sustainable practices, such as using recycled or biodegradable packing materials, optimising transportation routes to reduce carbon emissions, and promoting responsible waste disposal.

• Pros: Appealing to a growing market segment of environmentally aware customers, the potential to differentiate your business and establish a unique brand identity, opportunities for cost savings through efficient resource utilisation, and aligning with corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Cons: Potentially higher upfront costs for eco-friendly materials and equipment, need for specialised training and certifications, additional logistical considerations for sustainable practices, smaller initial target market compared to traditional removal services.

Small-scale and local moves niche

Focusing on small-scale and local moves can be an excellent niche to consider, especially when starting out. This niche caters to individuals or families relocating within the same city or a nearby area.

• Pros: Lower overhead costs with shorter travel distances, the potential for a loyal local customer base, easier coordination and scheduling, opportunities for referrals and repeat business within the community, and reduced logistical complexities compared to long-distance moves.
• Cons: Limited revenue potential compared to larger-scale moves, increased competition from other local movers, need for effective local marketing and brand awareness, potential for seasonality in demand depending on the local housing market.

Decide on the service area for your removal business

Determining where to establish or expand your removal business is crucial for its success. By identifying regions with the highest demand for removal services, you can position yourself in areas where your business is more likely to thrive.

The table below highlights the demand for removal services across various cities in Australia, based on Oneflare’s job posting data from 2024. We’ll break down the demand in each city and explore the factors driving the need for professional removalists in these areas.

Australian cities with the highest removals job demand

Sydney leads the removals job market in 2024, capturing 20.78% of the total demand. This high share is driven by Sydney’s high population density and frequent relocations associated with job changes, urban migration, and rental turnovers in a competitive housing market. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle further necessitates professional removal services to streamline the moving process.

Brisbane follows with 16.77% of the total demand. Brisbane’s growing population and suburban expansion contribute to this high demand, as many families and businesses move within and around the area for better housing options and lifestyle improvements.

Melbourne ranks third with 12.71% of the total demand. The city’s significant share is due to its diverse population, which sees frequent residential shifts driven by education, job opportunities, and lifestyle changes, especially among younger professionals and international migrants.

Australian cities with lower removals job demand

While Perth and Newcastle show lower job demand, capturing 9.15% and 4.40% of the total market, respectively, they still present opportunities for removals businesses. Perth’s demand stems from its isolated geography, where professional services are often necessary to facilitate relocations, particularly for long-distance or interstate moves. Newcastle’s smaller market allows businesses to specialise, offering tailored services like handling bulky furniture or providing eco-friendly moving solutions.

For businesses operating in these regions, leveraging local community ties and offering niche services, such as affordable rates for regional moves or specialized packing solutions, can help them capture a loyal customer base in these smaller but steady markets.

Step 2: Plan for seasonal trends in the removals industry

Understanding seasonal trends in the removals industry is crucial for managing demand fluctuations and optimising your operations. Certain times of the year may see a surge in client requests, such as during the summer when people are more likely to move houses or during holiday periods when businesses relocate. Other times, demand may slow down.

By aligning your services with seasonal needs—like offering discounts during quieter months or promoting advanced bookings before peak seasons—you can maintain a steady revenue stream and ensure the long-term stability of your removals business, regardless of demand fluctuations.

Identify popular seasons for removals services

According to Oneflare’s 2024 data on the total job postings for each type of service, the top months for removals services in 2024 are January, June, and July.

The high demand in January is likely driven by the start-of-year relocation trends, where families and professionals move to align with the new work and school year. June and July show peaks due to mid-year transitions, often related to university moves, changes in rental leases, or seasonal employment shifts.

Peak season for interstate removalist jobs

Interstate removals experience the highest demand in January, December, and June. The surge in January is linked to New Year relocations, while December’s activity stems from end-of-year moves before holidays. June’s peak reflects mid-year adjustments by students and professionals.

Peak season for local removalist jobs

Local removals peak in January, June, and July. These months coincide with seasonal factors like rental turnovers, particularly in urban areas, and individuals taking advantage of the summer break for short-distance moves.

Peak season for regional removalist jobs

Regional removals see the highest demand in January, followed by June and July. These peaks are often driven by families and businesses relocating to suburban or rural areas during the school and financial calendar transitions

Plan strategies to adapt to seasonal fluctuations

To ensure that your business stays ahead of the curve and ahead of the curve and can effectively manage seasonal demand, consider implementing these strategies: 

Offer seasonal promotions and discounts for removal services

Offering seasonal promotions and discounts for removal services is an effective way to attract customers during slower periods and maintain a steady revenue stream throughout the year. 

Consider offering discounted rates or package deals during the off-peak months, such as February to May and September to November. These promotions can incentivise customers to book their moves during these quieter times, helping to balance out the workload and cash flow.

Focus on complementary services during slow seasons

During the slower periods in the removal industry, consider diversifying your offerings by focusing on complementary services. These could include storage solutions, packing and unpacking assistance, furniture assembly and disassembly, or even home organisation services. 

You can also explore partnerships with related businesses, such as real estate agents or property management companies, to cross-promote services and tap into new customer bases.

Promote advanced removal service booking

Encouraging customers to book their removal services well in advance can help you better manage your resources and staffing during peak periods. Offer incentives, such as discounts or priority scheduling, for customers who book their moves several months in advance. This ensures that you can meet the demand during the busiest times and allows you to plan your operations more efficiently.

Post on lead generation sites to secure recurring removals clients

Lead generation sites like Oneflare can be a valuable tool for securing recurring clients for your removal business. The platform allows you to advertise your services and connect with potential removal leads who are actively seeking your services.

One of the main advantages of using Oneflare is that you can potentially establish long-term relationships with customers who require recurring removal services. This could include businesses that frequently relocate employees, property management companies, or individuals who move frequently for work or personal reasons.

When you establish your online presence on Oneflare, you can build a reputable brand that can attract a loyal client base. With the platform’s review system, satisfied customers can leave positive feedback about your services, further enhancing your credibility and attracting new clients.

Register your removals business on Oneflare today and connect with clients searching for trusted removalists like you!

Step 3: Research market rates and analyse competitors in the removals industry

Understanding market rates and competitor strategies helps you position your services competitively and meet customer expectations. 

Understand the cost of common removal services

Determining how much to charge for moving services requires researching industry standards and analysing local competitors. Factors influencing how much a moving service costs include the type of service, distance, and the volume of items being moved. Offering competitive yet sustainable pricing ensures your business remains attractive to customers while covering operational expenses. 

Here’s how much most removal and moving services in Australia cost:

These cost ranges are intended as general estimates and may vary based on location, specific requirements, and individual service providers. Keep in mind that additional factors, such as special handling or last-minute bookings, may influence the final cost.

Decide how to charge for removal and moving services

When clients hire a removalist, most often, the first thing they want to know is how much it’s going to cost them. As mentioned above, the removalist labour hire​ prices may vary so it’s vital to have various pricing options to meet different customer needs and budgets.

Hourly rate for local moves with short distances

For local moves with short distances, many removalists charge an hourly rate. This pricing model is suitable for moves that don’t require extensive travel or a full day’s work. The hourly rate typically covers the cost of labour, fuel, and transportation for a specified number of movers and a truck. Additional fees may apply for extra services like packing, disassembly/reassembly of furniture, or handling specialty items.

Fixed quotes for long-distance or interstate moves

Many removalists provide fixed quotes based on the total volume or weight of the belongings, the distance travelled, and any additional services required (e.g., packing, storage). Fixed quotes offer customers transparency and predictability regarding the total cost upfront. 

To calculate an accurate fixed quote, you can conduct an in-home survey or virtual assessment to evaluate the scope of the move.

Per cubic metre pricing for transporting large or irregularly shaped items

Per cubic metre pricing is a common approach for removalists when transporting large or irregularly shaped items that don’t fit neatly into standard and free boxes or containers. This pricing model charges based on the total cubic volume of space the items occupy in the moving truck or container.

The key benefits of per cubic metre pricing include fairness, flexibility, and transparency. Here, you’ll need to carefully measure and calculate the total cubic space required for the customer’s items during the pre-move assessment. Factors like item fragility, handling requirements, and any necessary disassembly/reassembly can also impact the final per cubic metre rate you charge.

Per item or service-based charges for specialised removals

For certain types of specialised removals, removalists often charge per item or per service provided. This pricing approach is suitable when handling fragile, valuable, or oversized items that require extra care and specialised equipment or expertise.

The per item or service fee usually covers the additional labour, materials, and specialised equipment required to safely move or handle these items. You may also factor in the level of expertise and care needed to ensure the items are properly protected during the move.

Evaluate your unique selling points (USPs)

Another important factor to consider is your unique selling points (USPs) that differentiate your removal business from competitors. Perhaps you offer specialised services or maybe you provide eco-friendly packing materials and sustainable moving practices. Identifying and promoting your USPs can help attract customers who value those specific offerings.

Guaranteed damage-free relocation

One USP for a removal business could be offering a guaranteed damage-free relocation service. This assurance would provide customers with peace of mind, knowing their belongings are in safe hands and will arrive at their new location in the same condition they left. This could involve using specialised packing materials, customised crating for fragile items, and advanced equipment like air-ride trucks to minimise jarring during transport.

All-in-one moving solutions

Another compelling USP is offering all-in-one moving solutions. This comprehensive approach streamlines the entire relocation process for customers by providing a wide range of services under one roof. From packing and crating to transportation, storage, and unpacking at the new location, an all-in-one moving solution simplifies the logistics and reduces stress for customers.

Flexible scheduling and emergency moves

Customers often have specific timelines and constraints when it comes to moving, and the ability to accommodate their schedules can be a significant advantage. Flexible scheduling could involve providing evening, weekend, or even 24/7 availability for bookings and moves, ensuring that customers can plan their relocation at a time that’s most convenient for them.

Providing emergency move services can also be a valuable USP. Unexpected situations, such as natural disasters, landlord disputes, or sudden job relocations, can necessitate a swift and efficient move. With this unique offer, you can cater to customers in urgent need, providing a timely solution and reducing their stress during a challenging period.

Eco-friendly moving practices

As environmental consciousness continues to grow, offering eco-friendly moving practices can be a unique USP for a removal business. Customers are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions that minimise their environmental impact, and businesses that prioritise green initiatives can differentiate themselves from competitors.

One eco-friendly approach is to use reusable and recyclable packing materials, such as biodegradable packing peanuts, recycled cardboard boxes, and cloth blankets instead of plastic wrap. This reduces waste and appeals to environmentally conscious customers who want to minimise their carbon footprint.

Don’t forget to formalise agreements with a detailed removalist contract to avoid misunderstandings and ensure transparency with clients. Additionally, using a moving invoice template or a removal invoice template can streamline your billing process, keeping records organised and professional.

Step 4: Explore funding options for your removals business

Securing funding for your removals business is an essential first step, and it’s crucial to seek professional advice before making any financial commitments. Consulting with financial planners and local accountants can help you understand the implications of each option and choose the best fit for your business goals. 

Self-funding

Self-funding involves using personal savings or funds from family and friends. This approach allows full control over finances without needing to meet lender requirements, although it also involves using personal financial resources.

Small business loans

Australian banks and financial institutions offer small business loans designed for startups. These loans generally require a business plan, financial projections, and a good credit history. Small business loans can provide the capital needed for startup expenses, with set repayment terms and interest.

Secured and unsecured business loans

Both secured and unsecured business loans are small business loans that can be viable funding options for purchasing initial removals business supplies, equipment, and transportation assets. 

Secured loans offer manageable, low-interest rates, provided collateral is available. This collateral could include personal assets such as residential properties or assets associated with your removals business, like vehicles, removal and moving tools, and equipment.

Meanwhile, an unsecured loan offers businesses fast access to funds without collateral. However, they generally have higher interest rates with shorter loan terms than secured loans, so the monthly payments can be higher. 

Government and industry programs

Certain Australian states provide grants and financial support for small businesses, especially those with innovative or eco-friendly services. These programs are structured to assist with initial costs and often have specific application requirements and conditions.

The New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) is one of the government programs in Australia that supports job seekers who want to start small businesses. This offers new entrepreneurs mentorship, accredited training, and income support to help them sustain themselves while establishing their businesses without requiring immediate profit. However, NEIS does not directly fund business costs, so startup capital would still need to be sourced separately.

Equity Investment

Startup removals businesses can secure significant funds without taking on debt that needs immediate repayment through equity investment. It’s a funding option where investors provide money to a business in exchange for ownership shares to get a stake in the company.

There are two types of equity investors: angel investors and venture capitalists (VCs). Angel investors are typically high-net-worth individuals who invest their personal funds into early-stage companies in exchange for equity. Meanwhile, venture capitalists are firms or groups that pool funds from multiple investors to support high-potential businesses.

Step 5: Develop a strategic removals business plan

Starting a removals business requires a well-thought-out business plan. This plan will be your roadmap, guiding you through each stage of starting and running your business. 

It should include key elements, such as:

• Executive summary
• Company profile
• Business description
• Market analysis
• Services offered and pricing strategy
• Marketing strategies
• Budget and cash flow forecast
• Operations plan
• Risk mitigation strategy
• Long-term growth plan

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create a business plan tailored to your removals business.

Draft an executive summary

First, begin with the executive summary, which is a brief overview of your removals business and your goals. This section gives readers a quick sense of what your business is all about. Summarise what services you’ll offer, your target market, and what sets you apart from competitors. It’s often best to write this last so it truly reflects the rest of your plan.

Write your removals business description

Your removals business plan also needs a clear company description. In this section, outline the foundational details of your removals business, including its legal business structure (e.g., sole trader, company, partnership, etc.), ownership details, business name, and location. 

Moreover, your company description should describe your business’s vision, mission, and core values. This section will provide essential context as you move into the more operational and financial specifics of your business plan.

Describe your removals business niche and types of services

The next step is to define the focus of your removals business, whether it’s general residential moving, interstate relocations, furniture transport, or a specialised niche such as office relocations or eco-friendly moving services.

Clarify why you chose this niche and provide a brief description of your target market. For example, your target audience could include homeowners needing reliable local moves, businesses seeking large-scale office relocations, or clients looking for specialised offerings like sustainable packing solutions, fragile item transport, or 24/7 emergency removal services.

Analyse your market and define your customer base

Once you have completed writing your company profile and removals business niche, it’s time to define your customer base. First, you’ll need to conduct a market analysis to understand your target customers, local competitors, and industry trends. 

From there, outline who your ideal clients are, what they need, and how you plan to serve them better than competitors. This analysis will help you identify market gaps and inform your service offerings.

Outline your removals services and pricing strategy

Your business plan should also specify the types of removal services you’ll offer and your pricing approach. Consider the costs of supplies, labour, and other expenses to price competitively yet profitably. Plus, think about whether you’ll offer package deals, discounts for repeat clients, or seasonal promotions.

Detail your marketing and sales plan

For your marketing and sales plan, you need to map out how you’ll attract and retain clients. Detail your marketing channels—such as social media, SEO, or partnerships—and any customer loyalty or referral programs. Think practically about your initial steps to grow your client base and raise brand awareness in your target market.

Create a budget and forecast cash flow

The budget and forecast cash flow is a crucial part of your business plan. For this section, it’s wise to break down your startup costs, monthly operating expenses, and anticipated revenue. 

Include one-time expenses such as equipment and marketing materials, as well as recurring costs like supplies, transportation, and insurance. 

Then, project your cash flow to understand when you’ll reach profitability and how to manage finances through any seasonal ups and downs.

Establish an operations plan

The operations plan details how you’ll manage day-to-day operations, including hiring, training, and scheduling. Here, describe systems you’ll implement to maintain high-quality service, handle customer feedback, and manage bookings or billing. This section is key to ensuring smooth, efficient operations as your business grows.

Develop a risk mitigation strategy 

After the operations plan, develop a risk management plan to address potential challenges and safeguards for your business. Identify key risks when starting a removals business, such as damage to clients’ belongings during transit, injuries sustained while lifting or moving heavy items, and liability issues related to delays or miscommunication about services. Outline safety protocols and detail the types of business insurance coverage needed, like public liability insurance, or workers’ compensation insurance.

Conclude with a long-term growth plan

Lastly, conclude with a long-term growth plan to demonstrate your vision for the future and commitment to sustainable growth. In this section, you need to define both short-term and long-term objectives of your business, such as adding new removal services, increasing your client base, or expanding to new locations. Outline strategies to retain existing clients, such as loyalty programs, and how you plan to scale your marketing efforts. 

Step 6: Register your removals business

To start a removals business, you may need to obtain registrations, licenses and permits. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re compliant with all applicable laws and meet your tax obligations. 

For information about registering your business or applying for an ABN, we recommend you check out this helpful information from the Australian government.

Step 7: Hire your removalists

Building a reliable team for your removals business is essential for your company’s success and growth. Below, we’ll discuss how you can hire removalists and ensure that they meet your business’s needs.

Write job description

First and foremost, you need to create a job description that highlights your business and what you offer. Be transparent about job duties, hours, pay, employment type and any training opportunities. Describe specific tasks (such as packing and wrapping items, safely transporting furniture, assembling and disassembling furniture, or loading and unloading trucks) and any qualifications or technical skills required. This helps candidates understand expectations from the start and ensures a good match for the role.

Most candidates also appreciate knowing the pay range, benefits, or potential for growth within the company. If you offer flexible hours, a supportive team environment, or training for new employees, mention these aspects. This can make your ad stand out and attract applicants who genuinely want to be part of a stable, rewarding role in a growing company.

Use local Australian platforms to advertise your job

After crafting the job ad, post it on multiple platforms to maximise its visibility. To reach the best candidates and find the right removalists for your business, you may consider advertising on platforms that are popular and effective in Australia, such as:

• SEEK – Australia’s largest job board, ideal for professional job seekers across industries.
• Indeed Australia – a wide-reaching job platform, popular among full-time and part-time job seekers.
• Jora – a job aggregator that pulls listings from various sources, increasing visibility.
• Workforce Australia – a free job advertising service from the government, suitable for small business owners.

You might also consider posting on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram if you have a business page. For a local touch, posting on community boards or participating in job fairs can attract applicants in your area. 

Don’t overlook employee referrals, either—current employees often know reliable candidates, and offering a referral bonus can incentivise them to help bring in great new hires.

Screen and interview thoughtfully

As applications start coming in, review them carefully to find candidates with the right qualifications and experience. Conduct initial interviews with the most promising applicants to gauge their interest in the role, removal and moving skills, and alignment with your business. 

This is the perfect chance to ask questions that reveal their previous experience, problem-solving abilities, and reliability. For example, you might ask how they managed challenging removal projects in the past, dealt with narrow access points or difficult-to-move items, or met tight deadlines while ensuring safe transport and delivering excellent customer satisfaction.

It’s also helpful to perform criminal history checks and reference checks to ensure the trustworthiness of your candidates. This is particularly important if your removalists will work in sensitive environments like offices or schools. A quick call to past employers can provide insight into their reliability, history, and work quality. 

Make an offer and onboard your new hire

When you’ve selected your top candidate, make a clear and detailed job offer that outlines pay, benefits, work hours, and expectations. 

Once they’ve accepted your offer, the next step is running a smooth onboarding process to set up your new hires for success. Start with training sessions to introduce them to your removals business’s standards, client communication protocols, and the specific workflows or equipment they’ll use to ensure efficient and high-quality moving services.

If possible, have them shadow an experienced team member for their first few shifts so they can learn on the job. After their first week, check in with them and provide feedback to support their improvement and integration into the team.

Offer ongoing support and fair treatment

A supportive work environment promotes employee retention. Openly address concerns about shifts, workload, and safety. This initiative will help create a positive work culture that encourages loyalty and productivity among your staff. 

Step 8: Invest in the right removal tools and equipment

Having the appropriate moving tools and equipment ensures efficient and safe handling of clients’ belongings. With the right equipment, you can minimise the risk of damage, increase productivity, and ultimately provide a smoother and more professional service to your customers.

Each removals business niche requires specialised tools and equipment. Here’s a breakdown of key items, their estimated costs, and where to purchase them in Australia:

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailers, brands, and product quality.

Step 9: Find clients for your removals business

Once everything is set, it’s time to find clients for your business. This includes expanding your online presence so you can build your reputation and gather positive reviews from your clients. You will also need to be proactive in managing your bookings and quotes efficiently.

Expand your online presence

Having a strong online presence is crucial for removals businesses. Thankfully, there are various methods you can employ to expand your online presence and reach potential customers:

Build your removals business website

A website is essential for establishing your removals business’s credibility and providing clients with easy access to your services. It allows potential clients to learn about your offerings, view testimonials, and request quotes directly. Working with a web designer can ensure a user-friendly, optimised site that effectively showcases your services and improves search visibility.

To guide you, we’ve compiled examples of successful removals business websites that display the effectiveness of building a good website to boost brand credibility and improve customer experience. 

Advance Movers’ website

The Advance Movers website does a great job of keeping things simple and easy to navigate, which is perfect for anyone planning a move. It’s clear about what they offer—house moves, office relocations, and even packing services—and there’s a handy “Get a Free Quote” button right up front to make reaching out hassle-free. They also highlight key details like their no-hidden-fee policy and professional experience, which helps build trust. 

AAA City Removalist’s website

The AAA City Removalist website is clean, modern, and easy to navigate making it easy for visitors to find what they need. With clear service descriptions, pricing transparency, and simple online booking, customers can quickly see how the company makes moving easier. Trust is built through visible reviews and certifications, while straightforward calls-to-action (CTAs) guide users to take the next step. 

All in all, the website offers a smooth, stress-free experience that reflects the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

CutRate Removals’ website

The Cut Rate Removals website strikes a great balance between a professional look and engaging content. The homepage highlights the key services and benefits with visuals and clear messaging. Customer satisfaction is also their priority, with testimonials and a clear call to action that encourages users to take the next step. It’s easy to navigate, providing a positive and informative experience for anyone considering their services. 

Post on lead generation platforms

Posting on lead-generation platforms is one of the most effective ways for removals businesses to find clients. These platforms connect you directly with clients actively searching for removal services, providing an immediate source of leads. 

Oneflare, in particular, allows you to showcase your removal and moving expertise without upfront fees, making it easier to attract clients with minimal risk. This platform’s job posting system helps bring in quality leads and enables you to specify job types, budgets, and locations, so you can target projects that fit your capabilities and business goals.

Get started on Oneflare by registering your removals business today—connect with clients, post targeted jobs, and grow your business with ease!

SEO and paid search for visibility

SEO and paid search improve your website’s visibility in search engine results, attracting organic traffic. While effective, SEO requires regular updates and can be costly in competitive areas. Consulting an SEO specialist helps implement ranking strategies to boost your business’s online presence.

Social media advertising

Social media advertising helps you reach a wide audience and showcase your removal services and client works visually. Targeted ads on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok can attract local clients, but maintaining a presence requires ongoing posting and budget management. A social media manager can optimise your campaigns for consistent engagement.

The following sections provide samples to inspire you and give you an idea of how social media advertising works. They showcase effective strategies for boosting a removals business’s visibility on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

777 World Removals Pty Ltd – Facebook advertising

The 777 World Removals Pty Ltd Facebook page is all about keeping things informative and engaging. They post real visuals from their recent jobs, which helps build trust with their audience. The content is easy to read, offering tips or updates that are useful for anyone looking to move. Plus, their contact details are right at their fingertips, and with auto-reply in place, inquiries are acknowledged quickly. It’s a friendly, approachable page that makes reaching out and staying connected simple.

Crusader Removals – Instagram advertising

Crusader Removals’ Instagram page effectively engages followers by regularly posting customer reviews and showcasing how they support the community. Their consistent use of black and red business colours gives the page a strong, recognisable brand identity. The contact details and website links are easy to find, ensuring that potential clients can reach out or learn more quickly. 

Movalist – TikTok advertising

Movalist’s TikTok page stands out with engaging and interactive content. They feature interviews with people about moving, offer helpful tips, and share informative videos on moving preparations. The captions are engaging, and the variety of videos ensures the content stays fresh and interesting. Their location and contact details are easy to find, making it simple for followers to reach out while enjoying useful moving-related content.

Build your removals business’s reputation through reviews and referrals

A strong reputation is key to long-term success. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on your website or lead platforms like Oneflare to boost credibility and attract new removal clients. Consistent reviews on a platform ensure reliable feedback, helping potential clients trust your quality.

Take bookings and manage quotes efficiently

Responding quickly to quote requests can also help you win removalist jobs, as clients often select the first reliable response. In fact, Oneflare data reveals that 60% of winning quotes are submitted within 60 minutes of the job posting, highlighting that faster quotes significantly boost job success rates. 

Here are some tools that can help with automated booking and quoting:

• Calendly – Enables easy scheduling by allowing clients to book available time slots directly, reducing back-and-forth communication.
• Square Appointments – Provides booking, invoicing, and payment processing in one platform, helping streamline the client experience.
• Setmore – Offers online booking with customisable reminders, plus client management and integration with social media for easy appointment setting.
• HoneyBook – Combines booking, quoting, and invoicing, letting you automate responses and manage projects all in one place.
• Zoho Bookings – Integrates with Zoho CRM to manage client relationships, offers automated reminders, and allows for easy rescheduling.

These tools help you automate responses, manage quote requests, and follow up with clients, ensuring that no lead falls through the cracks. 

Step 10: Get paid for your removal services!

Now that you have everything set up, from choosing your business niche and setting up your service area, to finally finding your clients, it’s time to finally get paid for your removal services. Here’s how:

Choose a reliable accounting software

Managing payments is a lot easier with a dedicated accounting system. This will save you time, reduce errors, and give you a clear picture of your finances.

Some popular accounting software options commonly used in Australia are:

• Xero – easy-to-use software with invoicing, bank feeds, and reporting.
• MYOB – offers payroll, tax tracking, and inventory management.
• QuickBooks Online – handles invoicing, expense tracking, and payments.
• Reckon One – customisable and budget-friendly, with modules for payroll and invoicing.
• Sage Business Cloud Accounting – simple solution for expense tracking and payroll.

Create a removals business invoice 

Creating a professional invoice template is essential to get paid quickly. The invoice should clearly list your services, rates, and payment terms. 

Many accounting platforms offer customisable removal services invoice templates, but you can start with free templates and modify them as needed. Consider these free removal invoice templates as a guide:

Canva’s removal invoice templates

It’s easily customisable with fields for services, rates, and payment terms. You can also add your logo and other brand elements to maintain consistency across all client communications.

Conta’s removal invoice templates

It provides a customisable, downloadable template specifically tailored for different businesses, like a removals business. The good thing about these templates is that they’re compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and Excel, allowing you to easily tailor them as needed.

Microsoft Office’s removal invoice templates

It offers free invoice templates that are straightforward and professional and can be saved as a PDF. Even better, they have Excel-based templates that can automate calculations, streamlining the billing process and reducing errors.

Zoho’s removal invoice templates

The template offers a clean and organized layout, ensuring clarity and professionalism in client communications. It includes essential sections such as service details, additional charges, taxes, and terms and conditions, facilitating accurate and transparent billing.

Set up a bank account for business payments

Separating personal and business finances with a dedicated bank account makes it easier to track income, manage deposits, and handle reconciliations. Most banks offer online options specifically for businesses, streamlining all your financial needs in one place.

Offer digital payment options

Make payments easy and convenient for clients by providing digital options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, credit cards, and bank transfers. Many clients, especially those booking removal services through platforms like Oneflare, prefer the flexibility of paying directly from their devices. Offering digital payments not only enhances client satisfaction but also speeds up the payment process, helping you maintain a reliable cash flow.

Establish clear payment terms

Define your payment terms upfront to avoid confusion—include due dates, late fees, and preferred payment methods. Clear terms, such as a 14-day payment window, help maintain a steady cash flow and foster professional client relationships.

Kickstart your removals business – join Oneflare today! 

Starting a removals business requires careful planning, from understanding the type of services to offer to deciding on your pricing model. 

In this article, we’ve covered key steps like planning for seasonal strategies, exploring your funding options, and identifying unique selling points to set yourself apart. Remember that in business, the key is consistency and transparency. The more trustworthy you are, the more customers you will attract, regardless of the marketing strategies you use.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge, why not take the next step? Post your services on Oneflare to connect with potential clients and get your removals business moving forward. It’s time to turn your plans into action!

FAQs on how to start a removals business

How to handle fragile items during a move?

To handle fragile items, use high-quality packing materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and sturdy boxes. Carefully label these boxes as “fragile” to ensure movers handle them with extra care.

How long does it take to move a house in Australia?

The time it takes to move a house in Australia depends on the size of the home, the amount of belongings, and the distance. Typically, local movers take between 4 to 8 hours to finish a whole moving house checklist, while long-distance moves can take several days, depending on the distance and logistics.

How much does it cost to start a removals business?

The total cost of starting a removals business will ultimately depend on how big you want to start, but these are the general areas you will need to plan for. Generally, key expenses include the purchase or lease of suitable vehicles, securing proper licenses and insurance, acquiring necessary equipment, and covering operational costs such as staffing and marketing.