Did you know that nearly 2 in 3 Australians say moving house is highly stressful, with some even saying it’s more stressful than losing jobs? One of the biggest factors influencing that stress? Packing. It is one of those moving tasks that seems simple until you’re knee-deep in bubble wrap, cardboard boxes, and last-minute panic. With that in mind, many people face the dilemma between hiring professional movers in Melbourne or taking a day off to do the packing themselves.

But how would you know which one is right for you?

Understand the pros and cons of each approach and how to decide which would be best for you with our expert movers at Jake Moves in this guide.

DIY Packing: The Pros and Cons of Handling it All Yourself

Pros of packing yourself

For individuals and businesses preparing to move, the idea of self-packing often starts with one motivation: control. Packing on your terms can offer several practical advantages, provided you’re prepared, of course.

1. Cost control and budget flexibility

Without a doubt, DIY packing is the cheaper option. You won’t have to charge for labour, so your only expense would be packing materials. Even then, you also have cost-saving options such as free packing boxes or household items that can double as packing materials. 

However, being thrifty can also have its risks:

• The durability of the free moving boxes may not be sufficient. During the move, they may break easily or cause damage to the items within. Also, they may not be the cleanest.
• Improvised padding materials such as blankets, clothes, and tape wrapping may not protect your items as well as professional wrapping and packing materials.

Aside from these, it’s important to factor in the hidden costs of potential breakages if packing isn’t done properly.

2. Personal oversight and custom organisation

When you pack yourself, you can pack whenever and however you desire.

You can pack at your own pace with complete control over how items are grouped, labelled, and prioritised.

For example, business owners moving sensitive documents, electronics, or client materials can structure packing in alignment with internal processes. Similarly, families may prefer to pack essentials separately for easy access on arrival.

This approach helps reduce huge disruptions in your daily routines and can result in greater efficiency, especially when unpacking at your next destination.

3. Opportunity for inventory and asset review

Packing yourself creates a valuable opportunity to audit your belongings or business assets. You can make informed decisions about what to keep, what to donate or discard, and what may require secure handling. 

For businesses, this can double as a compliance or operational audit. For families, it can be the first step in a more intentional home setup.

Cons of packing yourself

While packing your own move may seem straightforward at first glance, the reality is often far more complex. From logistical blind spots to physical strain and insurance limitations, DIY packing can introduce avoidable risks, especially for those without experience. 

1. Time-intensive and labour-heavy

Packing an entire home or office isn’t just a weekend job. It takes detailed planning, significant time investment, and physical endurance. A standard three-bedroom home, for instance, can take three to five days to pack. 

If you underestimate your packing time, you might end up haphazardly throwing everything into one big box at the last minute, resulting in a catastrophe.

2. Risk of damage

Most homeowners don’t have the packing expertise and training that professional packers and movers are equipped with, which can result in incorrectly packed items. 

Without proper materials, techniques, or stacking strategies, fragile items like electronics, glassware, and artwork are more likely to sustain damage in transit. 

3. No coverage for packing-related damage

Most removalist insurance policies, whether offered directly by your movers or through third-party providers, only cover professionally packed items. Self-packed boxes that arrive damaged may not be eligible for any claims.

Professional Packing Services by Movers in Melbourne

Pros of letting the experts handle it

While it may seem like a luxury, outsourcing this stage of your move to experienced movers can streamline the entire process. Here are some benefits you can enjoy:

1. Expert handling of fragile and high-value items

Professional packers are trained in best-practice packing techniques, using industry-grade materials to protect your belongings during transit. 

Whether they’re handling fragile glassware and artwork to office servers and AV equipment, they understand how to wrap, cushion, and box items for maximum protection.

This dramatically reduces the risk of in-transit damage, especially over long distances or in unpredictable weather conditions common in Melbourne.

2. Time efficiency and minimal disruption

A professional packing crew can complete what might take you days or even weeks in just a few hours. They also know how to optimise space in packing boxes so it could all fit into one trip.

This means you can focus more on logistics, change-of-address notices, and other critical admin.

3. Insurance coverage and peace of mind

One of the biggest advantages of using professional packers or movers in Melbourne is eligibility for full transit insurance. This way, your belongings are not only packed to the highest standard, but they’re also protected in case issues arise.

4. High-quality packing materials

Professional movers in Melbourne are equipped with custom cartons, anti-static wraps, reinforced boxes, protective padding, and even custom crating for irregularly-shaped or delicate items. This ensures every item is packed for durability and stackability.

5. Extra services

Professional packers and movers in Melbourne also offer a variety of complementary services. This includes disassembling your furniture, creating custom containers for oddly-shaped or delicate items, and even unpacking services.

Cons of hiring professional packers

While professional packers offer clear advantages, they may not perfectly fit every relocation for a few reasons

1. Higher upfront costs

The most immediate drawback of professional packing services is cost. While prices vary depending on volume, complexity, and location, professional packing can add anywhere from 10–25% to your total moving budget.

2. Less control over how items are packed

You may have specific preferences about how certain items are grouped, packed, or prioritised for access. However, this may differ from the mover’s methodology.

3. Scheduling and availability constraints

Professional packers or movers in Melbourne need to be booked in advance, especially during peak moving periods (late spring to early autumn). This can be a limiting factor, especially if you need flexibility or last-minute changes.

4. Risk of impersonal or inconsistent service

Not all moving companies hold the same standards. Choosing an under-qualified provider may result in rushed packing, careless labelling, or poor material use. 

That’s why you must work with trusted movers in Melbourne who are trained, insured, and reviewed positively for their packing services.

How to Decide: A Quick Self-Assessment

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to packing for a move. More often than not, the right choice depends on your priorities, resources, and tolerance for risk. Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you decide which route to take.

• Do you have time to pack properly?

If you’re working full-time, managing a family, or preparing a business handover, realistically assess whether you can commit the hours required. If not, professional help could save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.

• Do you own fragile, high-value, or sentimental items?

Antiques, electronics, artwork, servers, and sentimental keepsakes all require specialised packing techniques. If you’re unsure how to do it, professional help is ideal.

• Is budget a major constraint?

If you’re on a tight budget, DIY packing might be the most viable option. You can also go for hybrid packing, where you do the packing basics and outsource the rest.

• Are you physically able to pack and lift safely?

This is especially important for older individuals, people with injuries, or businesses where lifting may breach workplace safety standards.

• Are you moving during an unpredictable season?

Melbourne’s weather can throw curveballs. If you’re relocating during storm season, heatwaves, or high humidity, are you confident your DIY packing will withstand the outdoor elements?

• Are you packing for storage or transit only?

Items bound for storage (especially long-term) need to be packed differently from items going straight into a new home or office. If storage is involved, professionals can help preserve item integrity for the long haul.

• Are you comfortable with strangers handling your belongings?

Professional packers follow strict protocols, but if you’re packing confidential records or sentimental items, this can still feel intrusive. If privacy matters, you can pack sensitive items yourself and outsource the rest.

Pack Your Way 

Packing is more than a box-ticking task. It’s the first and arguably most important step in a successful relocation.When you’re deciding whether to do it yourself or let the professionals handle it, base your decision on realistic expectations, your unique moving conditions, and the value of your time and belongings.

Let Jake Moves handle your packing; we ensure flexible packing solutions tailored to your needs, whether that’s full-service packing, partial assistance, or expert advice to support your DIY efforts.

Get in touch with us today and let’s make your move as seamless as possible.