Removals to Australia from the UK, Your Complete Relocation Guide by Reloux®
- reloux®-GB
- Dec 9, 2025
- 13 min read
Moving from the UK to Australia is one of life’s biggest and most exciting decisions. Whether you're relocating for work, lifestyle, family, retirement, or a sun-soaked fresh start, planning an international move to the other side of the world requires precision, organisation and a trusted partner. At Reloux®, we specialise in removals to Australia from the UK, delivering safe, seamless and expertly managed door-to-door moves for households of every size.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: shipping options, expected timelines, customs requirements, essential packing advice, estimated costs, and why thousands of families choose Reloux® for their UK to Australia removals.
Why Move to Australia? A Land of Lifestyle, Opportunity & Sunshine
Australia continues to rank as one of the world’s most desirable destinations for British expats. With its outdoor lifestyle, booming job market, iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes, the appeal is undeniable. Many UK residents choose Australia for:
Stable economy & strong job sectors – healthcare, tech, construction, mining, engineering, education and public services.
Exceptional quality of life – clean cities, low pollution, world-class infrastructure.
Warmer climate – Sydney summers, Queensland sunshine, Perth’s stunning coastline.
Family-friendly culture – safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a relaxed work–life balance.
Shared language & easy cultural integration – making the transition far smoother than many other long-haul destinations.
Reloux® understands the emotional and logistical weight of such a major move, and our mission is to ensure your start in Australia is stress-free, organised and enjoyable.
Planning Your Move to Australia: What You Need to Know
Moving internationally is very different from a domestic relocation. Long-haul shipping, customs clearance, biosecurity inspections and container logistics add extra steps—and that’s where professional guidance becomes essential.
Below is everything you should consider when planning your move to Australia from the UK.
1. Shipping Options for Removals to Australia
Reloux® offers flexible and cost-efficient transportation, depending on your volume and timeline.
A. Full Container Load (FCL)
Perfect for full households, families, or moves where you want fast dispatch times.
20ft container – ideal for 1–2 bedroom properties.
40ft container – recommended for 3–4+ bedroom homes.
Fastest transit because the container belongs solely to you.
Door-to-door service including packing, customs guidance and delivery.
B. Shared Container / Groupage Service (LCL)
A cost-effective option if you have a smaller volume of items.
Ideal for studio or 1-bedroom shipments.
You only pay for the space you use.
Flexible departures across the year.
Perfect for shipping selected furniture, boxes, bikes, luggage and personal effects.
C. Air Freight (Fastest Method)
If you need items urgently—such as documents, essential clothing, IT equipment or baby essentials—air freight is the quickest route.
Transit: 7–14 days
More expensive than sea freight
Highly secure and priority-handled throughout transit
Reloux® will recommend the most efficient option after assessing your volume, timeframe and destination city.
2. Transit Times from the UK to Australia
Transit times depend on the port, shipping line schedules and customs processing.
Typical door-to-door timeframes:
Destination City | Average Door-to-Door Transit |
Sydney | 8–12 weeks |
Melbourne | 8–12 weeks |
Brisbane | 9–13 weeks |
Perth | 7–11 weeks |
Adelaide | 8–12 weeks |
Customs and biosecurity inspections are extremely strict in Australia—this is often the only factor that may extend delivery by a few days.
3. Australian Customs & Biosecurity Requirements
Australia has some of the world’s strictest import regulations to protect its fragile environment. Reloux® ensures full compliance, guiding you step-by-step.
Items Requiring Extra Inspection
Outdoor furniture
Gardening tools
Bicycles
Sports and camping equipment
Vacuum cleaners
Shoes with soil traces
These items must be clean, free of dirt, mud or organic matter.
Prohibited or Restricted Items
Food items (fresh, dried, tinned without declaration)
Plants, soil, seeds, untreated wood
Weapons, replica weapons, some knives
Certain medications without documentation
Animal products
Flammable liquids or hazardous substances
Reloux® provides a full pre-move checklist so you know exactly what is allowed.
Customs Documentation Required
Copy of passport
Australian visa or entry permit
Completed B534 Unaccompanied Personal Effects (UPE) form
Inventory list (provided by Reloux®)
Delivery address (temporary or permanent)
We complete the shipping paperwork and guide you through the entire process.
4. Packing Services for Moves to Australia
Packing for an international move must meet higher standards than domestic packing. Containers experience movement at sea, humidity changes, and temperature shifts. Poor packing leads to damages—and is the #1 reason people regret using non-specialist movers.
At Reloux®, we provide:
Professional Export Packing
High-grade materials
Special export-wrap for furniture
Custom wooden crating for fragile or high-value items (glass, ceramics, fine art, marble)
Numbered inventory log
Secure labelling for customs accuracy
Specialist Handling
Pianos
Artwork and sculptures
Large mirrors & glass tables
Antiques
Gym equipment
Motorbikes & bicycles
Eco-Friendly Packing Options
Sustainable materials and recyclable crates are available upon request.
Investing in professional packing dramatically reduces the risk of breakage during the 10,000+ mile journey.
5. How Much Does It Cost to Move to Australia from the UK?
Costs vary depending on:
Typical guideline ranges:
Groupage (Shared Container)
Small shipments (5–10 boxes): £895–£1,550
5–10 CBM: £1,850–£3,200
20ft Container (FCL)
£6,500 – £9,800 depending on destination
40ft Container (FCL)
£8,900 – £14,800
Air Freight
From £12 – £18 per kg (volumetric weight rules apply)
Storage Options
Reloux® provides secure London storage facilities, ideal if your Australian home is not ready. Long-term and short-term storage available at flexible rates.
For an exact quote, Reloux® offers:
Free video surveys
Free home visit surveys
Instant online volume calculators
6. Insurance for Removals to Australia
While Reloux® uses top-grade materials and professional handlers, international shipping includes inherent risks such as weather, port handling, and long-distance travel. That’s why we offer:
Comprehensive Marine Transit Insurance
Covers full replacement value
Protection from collection to delivery
Optional pairs & sets coverage
Low excess options
Customer peace of mind is our priority.
7. Settling in Australia – What to Expect After Arrival
Whether you’re moving to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide, Australia offers an easy transition for UK expats.
Housing & Rentals
Competition varies by city. Most British movers secure short-term rentals first while waiting for their shipment.
Climate Differences
Australia spans tropical to desert climates—prepare accordingly.
Driving in Australia
UK driving licence accepted initially
Left-side driving (same as the UK)
Converting to an Aussie licence is straightforward
Healthcare
You may be eligible for Medicare depending on your visa type.
Schooling
High-quality education system with state, private and international school options.
Reloux® can arrange storage in Australia, delayed delivery, or split shipments to make your settling-in period easier.
8. Most Popular UK-to-Australia Moving Routes with Reloux®
Families choose Reloux® for reliable, transparent and competitively-priced moves to:
1. UK to Sydney Removals
Australia’s busiest port, fast transit, ideal for families and professionals.
2. UK to Melbourne Removals
Cultural capital, major expat hub with excellent education.
3. UK to Brisbane Removals
Warm climate, family-friendly suburbs, growing industries.
4. UK to Perth Removals
Shorter shipping time via Western Australia, stunning beaches.
5. UK to Adelaide Removals
Affordable housing, quiet lifestyle, popular with retirees.
Wherever you are heading, Reloux® delivers complete door-to-door support.
9. Essential Tips for a Smooth Move to Australia
Start Planning 8–12 Weeks Before Moving
International moves require coordination with shipping lines, export documentation and customs.
Minimise Your Belongings
Declutter early—Australia import fees depend partly on volume.
Prepare an Essentials Box
Include items you need during the weeks while your shipment travels at sea.
Clean All Outdoor Items Thoroughly
This reduces your chance of Biosecurity inspection and delays.
Take Photos of Valuable Items Before Packing
Useful for insurance and inventory accuracy.
Reloux®’s dedicated move coordinators walk you through each step.
10. Why Choose Reloux® for Removals to Australia?
Reloux® is trusted across the UK for safe, professional and personalised overseas relocations. Our commitment includes:
✔ Complete Door-to-Door International Moving Service
From packing in the UK to final delivery anywhere in Australia.
✔ Experienced Export-Packing Crew
High-skill teams trained specifically for long-haul International removals.
✔ Clear, Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. No last-minute surprises.
✔ Dedicated Move Coordinator
You get one point of contact for your entire journey.
✔ Global Partner Network Across Australia
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra and regional areas.
✔ Flexible Storage Solutions
In both the UK and Australia.
✔ Customs Documentation Assistance
Handled by experts to ensure fast, smooth clearance.
✔ Reputation for Care, Safety & Professionalism
We handle your home as if it were our own.
When shipping your life across the world, choosing the right moving company matters.
11. Frequently Asked Questions About Removals to Australia
1. How early should I book removals to Australia?
Ideally 8–12 weeks before your moving date. Peak seasons (summer & January) fill quickly.
2. Do I need insurance for shipping to Australia?
Yes. Reloux® provides comprehensive marine transit insurance to protect your belongings during sea or air travel.
3. Can I ship my car or motorbike to Australia?
Yes, but regulations vary by state. Reloux® can assist with compliance checks, cleaning requirements and import permits.
4. What items are not allowed?
Food, soil-contaminated items, untreated wood, hazardous materials, animal products, and some electronics depending on certification.
5. Do I need to be in Australia when my shipment arrives?
No, but someone must be authorised to accept delivery. We coordinate delivery around your relocation schedule.
6. Will customs inspect my shipment?
Australia has strict biosecurity laws. Random inspections may occur; Reloux® prepares your inventory to minimise delays.
7. Can I move pets to Australia?
Yes, but Australia has strict quarantine rules. Reloux® can put you in touch with specialist pet relocation partners.
12. Get Your Reloux® Quote – Fast, Precise & Transparent
Moving your entire life to Australia is a significant milestone. With Reloux®, you gain a trusted partner who ensures every detail runs smoothly—from professional packing to secure shipping and final delivery.
Request your personalised quote today:
Free home survey (UK nationwide)
Fast, accurate volume calculation
Clear price breakdown – no hidden extras
Whether you're shipping a few boxes or a full household, Reloux® provides a personalised, premium service built around your needs.
FAQ for Removals to Australia from the UK Reloux®
1. How much does it cost to move to Australia from the UK?
The cost of moving to Australia from the UK with Reloux® varies based on the total volume of your belongings, packing requirements, and destination city. As a guide, small shipments start from £2,700, while full household relocations typically range from £6,000–£11,000+.Your quote includes professional export packing, sea freight, customs clearance, and delivery to your new Australian address. Reloux® guarantees transparent pricing with no hidden charges, giving you complete confidence in your international relocation budget.
2. What is the average price for removals to Australia?
The average cost for UK-to-Australia removals with Reloux® usually falls between £6,500 and £9,000 for a standard two- or three-bedroom property. This includes export packing, container shipping, and delivery.Because every move is unique, Reloux® provides a free survey to calculate the exact volume and offer an accurate, fixed quotation tailored to your needs.
3. What is the cheapest way to ship belongings to Australia from the UK?
The most affordable method is groupage shipping, where your goods share a container with other Reloux® clients heading to Australia. This significantly reduces costs while maintaining full-service benefits such as export packing and door-to-door delivery.Reloux® operates regular groupage departures, ensuring fast consolidation times and reliable transit.
4. Is it cheaper to send a full container or share a container to Australia?
For smaller volumes, groupage (shared container) is usually the cheapest option because you only pay for the space you use.For full household moves, a dedicated 20ft or 40ft container offers better value per cubic metre and shorter transit times.Reloux® helps you choose the most cost-effective method based on your exact volume and schedule.
5. How much does a 20ft container cost from the UK to Australia?
A 20ft container to Australia typically costs between £6,900 and £10,500 with Reloux®, depending on destination city, seasonality, and packing requirements.This option suits 2–3 bedroom homes or clients with large furniture pieces.Reloux® manages the entire process — packing, loading, shipping, customs, and final delivery.
6. How much does a 40ft container cost from the UK to Australia?
A 40ft container usually ranges from £9,500–£14,500+, depending on the route and final delivery location.This is ideal for large households, families relocating together, or customers with bulky or high-volume shipments.Reloux® provides professional export packing and ensures secure loading so your items arrive safely.
7. How much does it cost to ship furniture to Australia?
Shipping furniture to Australia with Reloux® starts from around £1,200 for smaller consignments and can reach £3,500–£7,000 for full household furniture loads.We use specialist export packing, reinforced materials, and custom timber crates for delicate or high-value pieces.
8. Are door-to-door removals to Australia more expensive?
Door-to-door service is slightly higher in cost due to the extensive handling, customs processing, and final delivery included.However, with Reloux®, door-to-door is always the recommended option because it eliminates risk, removes complications, and ensures a seamless relocation experience from your UK home to your new Australian property.
9. What factors affect the price of shipping to Australia from the UK?
Several factors influence the final cost, including:
Total volume (CBM)Â of your shipment
Destination city (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, etc.)
Packing requirements
Service level (groupage or full container)
Customs or quarantine inspections
Storage needsReloux® provides a detailed breakdown so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
10. How much does groupage shipping cost to Australia?
Groupage (shared container) shipping starts from £450–£850 per cubic metre depending on your final destination and the size of your shipment.Reloux® provides weekly groupage consolidations, reducing waiting times and ensuring your shipment leaves the UK quickly.
11. How long does shipping take from the UK to Australia?
Standard sea freight to Australia takes approximately 9–12 weeks depending on the port of entry and vessel schedules.With Reloux®, you receive full tracking updates throughout the journey plus proactive communication from your dedicated move coordinator.
12. How long does door-to-door delivery take to Australia?
The full door-to-door timeline usually takes 10–14 weeks, covering:
Packing & loading
Container transport
Sea voyage
Customs & quarantine clearance
Local delivery in AustraliaReloux® ensures smooth coordination at every stage to avoid unnecessary delays.
13. What is the fastest shipping option to Australia?
The fastest option is a dedicated 20ft or 40ft container, which avoids waiting for consolidation and is shipped directly once packed.Certain high-priority shipments may also be eligible for air freight, which takes 5–12 days, ideal for urgent belongings.
14. How does groupage shipping to Australia work?
Reloux® collects and export-packs your items, transports them to our UK warehouse, and loads them into a shared container with goods from other clients moving to Australia.At arrival, our Australian partners handle:
Customs clearance
Quarantine inspections
Local delivery to your homeThis method is cost-effective yet fully managed by Reloux® from start to finish.
15. What is the process for removals to Australia from the UK?
The Reloux® international moving process includes:
Free home or video survey
Accurate fixed quotation
Professional export packing & inventory
Container loading & shipping
Customs and AQIS clearance in Australia
Final delivery, unpacking & furniture reassemblyReloux® handles everything, ensuring a smooth end-to-end relocation.
16. How early should I book an international removal to Australia?
It’s best to book 4–6 weeks in advance, especially during busy periods.However, Reloux® maintains flexible capacity, meaning we can also accommodate last-minute relocations whenever required.
17. What is the step-by-step process for moving to Australia?
The full Reloux® moving journey includes:
Pre-move consultation
Survey and volume assessment
Quotation & move planning
Packing day
Export customs preparation
Sea freight shipping
Australian customs & quarantine clearance
Final delivery into residenceReloux® provides continuous updates so you always know what stage your move is at.
18. How does a shared container service to Australia operate?
With shared container (groupage) shipping, you pay only for the cubic metres you use.Reloux® consolidates your goods with other shipments bound for the same ports in Australia. This reduces cost while still providing all the benefits of a full-service international move, including customs clearance and home delivery.
19. What are the customs rules for moving to Australia?
Australia has strict customs & quarantine requirements designed to protect its environment. Reloux® ensures full compliance by preparing all necessary documents, inventories, and declarations on your behalf. Most personal household goods enter duty-free if properly documented and owned for 12 months or more.
20. What items are prohibited when moving to Australia?
Australia prohibits or restricts:
Food items
Soil, plants & seeds
Animal products
Certain outdoor equipment
Untreated wood Reloux® will advise you before packing and exclude any items that may cause inspection delays or additional costs.
21. What documents do I need for removals to Australia from the UK?
You will typically need:
Passport copy
Australian customs form B534
Packing inventory (created by Reloux®)
Proof of residence/visa (if applicable)Reloux® prepares and submits all customs documents, ensuring a smooth transition through Australian authorities.
22. Do I need to complete a customs inventory when shipping to Australia?
Yes — Australian customs requires a detailed inventory of every item shipped. Reloux® produces a professional, barcoded inventory during export packing, which is accepted by Australian customs and ensures faster clearance.
23. What are AQIS requirements?
AQIS (Australian Quarantine Inspection Service) enforces strict rules to prevent contamination. Items such as outdoor furniture, sports equipment, garden tools, and bicycles must be thoroughly cleaned beforehand. Reloux® prepares your shipment to minimise inspection and cleaning charges upon arrival.
24. Do wooden furniture or items need fumigation for Australia?
Indoor, treated wooden furniture rarely needs fumigation.Outdoor wooden furniture or untreated items may require inspection. Reloux® assesses these items during the survey and will arrange treatment if needed.
25. Do I pay customs duty when moving household goods to Australia?
Most clients pay no customs duty when relocating used household goods, as long as items have been owned for more than 12 months. Reloux® completes all declaration forms to ensure your goods qualify for exemption.
26. How strict is Australian quarantine for personal belongings?
Australia has one of the strictest quarantine systems globally. Items likely to raise concern include:
Outdoor gear
Sports shoes
Bicycles
Tools
Wooden/bamboo décor Reloux® prepares your shipment to minimise inspection risk and avoid additional AQIS fees.
27. Can I send food or plants to Australia?
No — food, soil, and plants are strictly prohibited.Reloux® will remove any restricted items during packing to ensure compliance and avoid customs delays.
28. What happens if my shipment fails quarantine inspection?
If AQIS identifies a risk, they may order:
Cleaning
Fumigation
Heat treatment
Disposal Reloux manages the entire process on your behalf and keeps you informed. We always aim to prevent issues by packing correctly from the start.
29. How should I pack for a move to Australia?
All items should be export-wrapped for long-distance sea freight. Reloux® uses:
Multi-layer bubble wrap
Double-walled cartons
Custom-built crates
Foam protectionThis ensures your belongings arrive safely, even after a journey of 10,000+ miles.
30. Do I need export packing for removals to Australia?
Yes — export packing is essential for sea freight. Reloux® uses bespoke materials, including barrier wrap and reinforced cartons, giving your items maximum protection during the voyage.
31. Can I pack my own boxes when shipping to Australia?
Yes, you may pack your own boxes, but professionally packed boxes reduce the chance of customs inspection and insurance issues. Reloux® can repack any items that need additional protection.
32. What is the best way to pack fragile items for Australia shipping?
Reloux® recommends:
Double boxing
Foam cushioning
Custom crating for artwork and glass
Separating fragile items into smaller cartons Our export packers are trained to prepare delicate items for long-distance transport safely.
33. Do removals companies provide packing materials for Australia moves?
Reloux® provides all packing materials as part of the service, including cartons, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, tape, and wooden crates. We only use export-grade supplies designed for international transit.
34. Should I disassemble furniture before shipping to Australia?
Reloux® handles all dismantling and reassembly for you.We also protect each piece with export wrapping and provide additional bracing for fragile or oversized items.
35. What items are worth taking to Australia vs re-buying?
High-quality furniture, sentimental items, and personal belongings are usually worth shipping.However, large outdoor equipment, low-value furniture, mattresses, and cheap appliances may cost more to ship than replace. Reloux® provides personalised guidance during your survey to help maximise value while controlling shipping volume.
Start Your New Life in Australia With Confidence – Choose Reloux®
Moving to the other side of the world doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With expert planning, experienced teams and a dedicated move coordinator, Reloux® transforms your relocation into a streamlined, reassuring experience.
Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on your bright new beginning under the Australian sun.