Yes — many furniture removal services offer packing and unpacking services. What differs is whether it’s included as standard, the quality of the packing materials used, and the level of expertise behind the service. These differences can vary significantly between companies and often have a greater impact on the move than people initially expect.
With more than 45 years of experience delivering local, interstate, and international relocations, we know that packing and unpacking is not simply an add-on. When done properly, it is one of the most critical components of a successful move.
Is Packing and Unpacking Included in Furniture Removal Services?
In most cases, packing and unpacking is offered as an optional service. Clients may need to request it separately, and packing materials are often charged in addition to the move itself.
At Palmers Relocations, this differs for international moves. All export relocations include professional packing and packing materials as part of our standard service. International moves require export-grade packing to protect household goods during long periods in shipping containers, exposure to changing climates, and constant movement at sea.
For local and interstate moves, packing and unpacking services can be tailored to each client’s preferences — whether they choose to pack everything themselves, pack only selected items or rooms, or have the entire move professionally handled.
Why Professional Packing Makes a Difference
Packing is a skilled trade. While anyone can fill a box, packing correctly requires experience, training, and an understanding of how goods behave in transit.
Palmers Operations Manager, John Bryant (“Stretch”), brings over 35 years of industry experience. His approach to packing is simple but uncompromising: cartons should be packed to a standard that protects contents even under significant movement.
That level of packing doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from decades of hands-on experience, the correct use of materials, proper weight distribution, and consistent training — all of which directly impact the safety of your belongings.
“If a carton is packed correctly, you should be able to drop it from 2–3 metres and the plates won’t break.”
This level of expertise is also reflected in pricing. Quality packing requires time, training, and the right materials — but it significantly reduces the risk of damage and the stress that often comes with moving.
How to Identify a Removal Company That Packs Properly
One of the biggest challenges clients face is knowing who actually packs well. Not all packing services are equal, and the differences are not always obvious upfront. When comparing providers, here’s what we recommend looking for:
Accreditations matter
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AFRA accreditation for Australian moves
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FIDI and FAIM accreditation for international relocations
Export-grade packing is critical for overseas moves. For local relocations, packaging quality is just as important — including the strength of cartons. The number of ply used can determine whether boxes hold their shape or collapse under weight during transit.
Client reviews, particularly those that include photos, can also be helpful.
While reviews provide useful insight, they don’t always reflect packing quality alone. A lack of breakages or positive feedback may relate to communication or the overall experience. In our experience, industry accreditations remain one of the strongest indicators of professional standards, training, and compliance.
Real-World Experience: When Packing Changes the Move
Many clients planning an overseas relocation underestimate how time-consuming packing can be. Between sorting belongings, selling items, organising documentation, and managing day-to-day life, packing often becomes overwhelming.
We regularly hear clients say they assumed they would need to pack everything themselves — and when they find out we pack for them, the reaction is almost always the same: relief. It’s often the moment the move starts to feel manageable rather than daunting.
We also see a high number of returning clients who choose full packing and unpacking services after experiencing it once. The reduction in stress, time, and disruption is significant — and often decisive.
Does Packing and Unpacking Affect the Cost?
For international moves with Palmers, packing and materials are already included, so there is no change to the price.
For local and interstate moves, costs will vary depending on:
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Whether clients supply their own boxes or will use Palmers packing materials
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The size and layout of the home
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Additional areas such as sheds, attics, wine cellars, or storage spaces
What many clients don’t expect is how efficient professional teams are. What might take a household one or two weeks to complete, our crews can often pack, move, and unpack within a day or two, depending on the scope of the move.
Packing Fragile and High-Value Items
Certain items require additional protection. Where appropriate, custom crating may be recommended. If crating is not required or preferred, items are carefully wrapped, packed using suitable materials, clearly labelled, and positioned securely for transport.
Every decision is made with the same objective: ensuring your belongings arrive safely, regardless of distance.
The Key Benefit: Less Stress, Greater Peace of Mind
Packing is one of the most time-intensive and stressful parts of moving. Professional teams manage this process every day, allowing clients to focus on planning rather than packing.
While full-service packing may not be the lowest-cost option, clients consistently value the experience, care, and confidence it provides — and the peace of mind that comes with knowing the job has been done properly.
Final Advice from a Professional Removalist
Most people only realise how much work packing involves once they begin.
Clients who experience professional packing once almost always choose it again — because it delivers what matters most during a move: less stress, professional handling, and peace of mind.
Ready to learn more and tailor a move to your needs? Fill out the form below for an obligation-free quote, and one of our relocation specialists will be in touch.