I have done that trip both ways more than once, and unless your gear is quite valuable or has sentimental value sell or store it and buy that stuff again when you get up there.
Removal is very dear and being encumbered with an oversize vehicle when you hit town will suck just as much.
Our Darwin company had a mass exodus recently and this was the most popular option taken by far.
Cars are not cheap up there however so you ought to drive. Pity about the time of year...