Relocating to another country is an exciting chapter, but it also comes with plenty of financial planning. One of the biggest questions families face is: How much will it cost to move from Singapore to Australia?
While every relocation is different, having a clear idea of the main expenses involved can help you prepare, avoid unexpected surprises, and make smarter choices. In this guide, we’ll break down the typical costs of an international move and provide tips to help you budget effectively.
1. Shipping Your Household Goods
The largest cost in most relocations is shipping. From Singapore to Australia, you have three main options:
- Full Container Load (FCL) – Recommended for families moving a full household. A 20ft or 40ft container is reserved exclusively for your belongings. Costs generally range between SGD 7,000 – SGD 12,000, depending on the volume and destination city (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, etc.).
- Less than Container Load (LCL) – If you don’t have enough items to fill a container, your goods are consolidated with other shipments. Expect around SGD 3,000 – SGD 6,000.
- Groupage – A shared service where your belongings travel with shipments going in the same direction. This is usually the most cost-efficient but takes longer.
Beyond transport, factor in packing materials, professional handling, and insurance for added peace of mind.
2. Customs Duties and Quarantine
Australia has strict biosecurity rules, so all shipments are subject to inspection by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
- Quarantine inspection fees: Usually AUD 300 – AUD 600, depending on the size of the consignment.
- Customs duties and GST: Most personal and used household goods are duty-free if you’ve owned them for over 12 months. However, new items may attract GST (10%).
Pro tip: Always clean outdoor items (bicycles, camping gear, garden furniture) thoroughly before packing to reduce quarantine delays and costs.
3. Temporary Accommodation
When you first arrive in Australia, you may not move straight into your permanent home. Temporary housing costs vary widely depending on location and duration:
- Serviced apartments or Airbnbs: AUD 150 – 250 per night in cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
- Short-term rentals: Around AUD 600 – 1,000 per week.
Budget at least two to four weeks of temporary accommodation, as your shipment may take several weeks to clear customs.
4. Flights and Travel Costs
One-way economy tickets from Singapore to Sydney or Melbourne usually cost SGD 500 – SGD 900 per person. Multiply this by your family size, and don’t forget to include excess baggage fees if you’re bringing more than your allowance.
5. Settling-In Expenses
Even after your belongings arrive, you’ll face initial costs setting up your new life in Australia. These may include:
- Rental deposits: Typically 4 weeks’ rent, plus 2 weeks paid in advance. For a family-sized apartment in Sydney, that could be around AUD 6,000 upfront.
- Utilities setup: Electricity, gas, internet, and water deposits – about AUD 300 – 500.
- Furniture or appliances: Even with shipping, many families end up buying some new items locally.
6. Optional Costs: Shipping Your Car
If you’re considering shipping your car, be aware of the additional expenses:
- Shipping fees from Singapore: SGD 2,500 – 5,000.
- Australian GST & possible Luxury Car Tax.
- Compliance checks and modifications to meet Australian standards.
- Registration and insurance in Australia.
For many families, selling the car in Singapore and buying one locally in Australia is often more cost-effective.
7. Insurance and Professional Services
- Transit insurance: Around 2–3% of the declared value of your goods.
- Relocation services: Some families also budget for professional help with school searches, visa support, or settling-in assistance.
Sample Budget Breakdown: Family of Four (Singapore → Sydney)
- Shipping (FCL 20ft): SGD 8,500
- Quarantine/Customs fees: AUD 500 (~SGD 440)
- Temporary accommodation (3 weeks): AUD 4,500 (~SGD 3,950)
- Flights: SGD 3,200
- Rental bond & advance: AUD 6,000 (~SGD 5,270)
- Utilities & setup: AUD 400 (~SGD 350)
- Miscellaneous/new furniture: SGD 2,000
Estimated Total: ~SGD 23,500 – 25,000
Tips for Managing Your Relocation Budget
- Get multiple quotes: Costs vary across moving companies, so compare carefully.
- Ship strategically: Only take what you truly need – selling bulky, low-value furniture and replacing it in Australia can save thousands.
- Plan early: Booking in advance often secures better shipping rates.
- Keep an emergency fund: Always set aside at least 10–15% extra for unexpected expenses.
Moving internationally is a significant financial undertaking, but with careful planning, you can avoid surprises and stay in control. By breaking down the costs of shipping, customs, accommodation, and settling in, you’ll have a clearer picture of what to expect.
At CM Relocation, we provide transparent quotes and expert guidance for families relocating from Singapore to Australia. From packing to customs clearance, we’ll help you manage every detail so you can focus on the exciting journey ahead.
✅ Planning your move from Singapore to Australia? Get in touch with CM Relocation today for a tailored quotation and expert advice.