How to Choose the Best Moving Company in Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

February 3, 2025

1. Canada Moving Industry Overview

The moving industry in Canada is multifaceted, shaped by the country’s vast geography and its high level of urbanization. This means that while moving trends can vary widely by region, key themes such as inter-provincial migration and urban growth are pivotal to the industry’s landscape.

Canadian Moving Trends

Canada’s moving industry has seen a variety of trends over recent years, with increased mobility driven by factors such as population growth, urbanization, and inter-provincial migration. According to Statistics Canada, around 14% of Canadians move annually. This includes both local moves within cities and long-distance relocations across provinces. Urban areas like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are seeing high levels of in-migration due to job opportunities, while other regions, like Alberta, are experiencing out-migration as people seek more affordable living in other parts of the country.

The growth of remote work has also influenced migration patterns, as Canadians have increasingly moved from larger cities to more rural areas, seeking lower costs of living or more space. Additionally, the rise of the gig economy has created demand for short-term relocations and niche moving services.

Key statistics that offer insight into the state of the moving industry include:

Approximately 1 in 7 Canadians move each year.
An average of 30,000 Canadians relocated between provinces in 2020 due to job opportunities or lifestyle choices.
Moving services are divided between residential, commercial, and specialty types.

Popular Moving Destinations

The most common destinations for movers in Canada include large metropolitan centers like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. These cities attract people due to their thriving job markets, diverse cultural environments, and educational institutions. Toronto, as Canada’s financial hub, consistently sees large influxes of residents from across the country, while Vancouver draws people for its temperate climate and outdoor lifestyle.

Calgary, on the other hand, is a destination for many who are relocating due to the energy sector or seeking affordable housing compared to major cities like Toronto. Ottawa, Montreal, and Edmonton are also notable relocation hotspots.

Local vs. Long-Distance Moves

Local moves are generally easier and less expensive, involving moving within the same city or province. In contrast, long-distance moves—such as those that cross provincial borders—are more complex and costly, requiring careful planning and preparation. These moves often involve more logistical considerations, including accommodation, specialized packing, and transportation requirements.

2. Types of Moving Services

The moving industry offers a variety of services tailored to different needs, and each comes with its own set of challenges and costs.

Residential Moving

Residential moving is the most common type of relocation, involving families or individuals moving their personal belongings. Full-service movers typically handle the packing, loading, transport, and unpacking, ensuring a hassle-free experience. These services can vary in cost depending on the distance, size of the household, and services provided.

Commercial & Office Moves

Commercial moves typically involve relocating office spaces, including business furniture, equipment, and sensitive files. These moves require specialized handling to ensure minimal downtime for the business and safe transport of materials.

Specialty Moving (Antiques, Pianos, Fine Art)

Specialty moving services focus on delicate, valuable, or oversized items that require extra care and expertise. Moving fine art, antiques, or pianos often requires custom crating, climate-controlled transport, and specialized packing materials to ensure these items arrive safely.

Truck Rentals: A Budget-Friendly Moving Option

For those seeking a more cost-effective solution, truck rentals offer an affordable alternative to full-service movers. Companies like U-Haul and Budget Truck Rental provide a variety of vehicles for rent, allowing DIY movers to manage the packing and transport of their belongings. Truck rentals are particularly beneficial for those on a budget or with smaller loads, but they require a good deal of planning and physical labor.

3. Choosing a Reliable Moving Company in Canada

Choosing a reliable moving company is crucial to ensuring a smooth and stress-free relocation. There are a few key factors to consider when selecting a mover.

What to Look for in a Moving Company

Reputation: Check online reviews, ask for referrals, and look at ratings from independent review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Experience: Consider how long the company has been in business and their experience with moves similar to yours (e.g., long-distance, specialty).
Services Offered: Ensure the company offers the services you need, whether it’s full-service moving, packing, or storage options.

Licensing & Accreditation

In Canada, the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) is the primary body representing movers. CAM accredits moving companies to ensure they adhere to best practices and industry standards. Licensing requirements also vary by province, so checking for proper certifications is important to avoid scams.

How to Read Reviews & Ratings

Pay close attention to customer feedback on various platforms (Google, BBB, etc.) to identify potential red flags. A few negative reviews are normal, but a pattern of complaints about unprofessionalism, delays, or damaged goods should be taken seriously.

4. Moving Costs and Budgeting Tips

The cost of moving can vary widely depending on the complexity of the move, distance, and the type of services chosen. Understanding the factors that influence moving costs is crucial to staying within budget.

Factors Affecting Moving Costs

Distance: Long-distance moves are generally more expensive due to fuel costs and time required for travel.
Weight/Volume of Items: Heavier loads or larger homes increase the cost of transport.
Type of Service: Full-service moving is more expensive than self-service options like truck rentals.

Comparing Quotes

When comparing quotes, it’s essential to understand whether the pricing is based on a flat rate or hourly charges. Flat-rate pricing provides transparency and avoids surprises, while hourly pricing can fluctuate depending on the length of the move.

Cost-Saving Strategies

Decluttering: Reducing the number of items being moved can significantly lower costs.
Off-Peak Seasons: Moving during off-peak seasons (e.g., fall and winter) may offer discounts.
Get Multiple Quotes: Always get quotes from at least three companies to ensure competitive pricing.

5. Packing and Logistics

Proper packing and logistical planning are essential for a successful move, especially for those managing the process themselves.

Packing Materials and Their Costs

The cost of packing materials can add up quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead. Common materials include:

Boxes: Varying in size, from small boxes for books to large boxes for bedding.
Bubble wrap and packing peanuts: Ideal for protecting fragile items.
Tape and labels: Necessary for securing boxes and indicating their contents.

Tips for Efficient Packing and Labeling

Pack in layers: Heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
Label boxes clearly: Indicate the contents and the room where they should be placed.
Use clothing and towels: To cushion fragile items and save on packing materials.

6. Legal & Insurance Considerations

It’s important to understand your rights and protections when moving your belongings.

Liability Coverage for Movers in Canada

Movers are required to offer basic liability coverage in Canada. This typically covers damages due to the mover’s negligence, but it’s important to verify the terms before signing.

What to Do If Items Are Damaged or Lost

If items are damaged, the first step is to file a claim with the moving company. Make sure to document the damage with photos and receipts. Movers may offer additional insurance for higher-value items.

Contracts & Fine Print

Always read the contract carefully to understand cancellation policies, liability, and any additional charges that may arise during the move.

7. Sustainability in the Moving Industry

The moving industry is becoming increasingly aware of its environmental impact. Many companies now offer eco-friendly services to reduce waste and carbon footprints.

Eco-Friendly Moving Practices

Recyclable packing materials: Using cardboard, paper, and other recyclable materials.
Fuel-efficient vehicles: Some moving companies are investing in low-emission trucks to reduce their environmental impact.
Donation and Disposal: Donating unwanted items to charity or using eco-friendly disposal options helps reduce waste.

8. Relocating Businesses in Canada

Corporate relocations require specialized logistics to minimize downtime and ensure smooth transitions.

Corporate Moving Logistics

IT equipment and sensitive documents: Must be handled with care, often requiring specialized packing and transportation.
Employee impact: Ensuring employees have minimal disruptions during the move is critical for maintaining productivity.

9. Technology & Tools for Moving

Technology is playing a major role in streamlining the moving process. Apps and online platforms are now available to help with everything from planning to tracking.

Moving Apps

Apps like Sortly and MoveAdvisor help users keep track of their inventory, budget, and timelines.

GPS Tracking for Trucks

Real-time tracking of moving trucks provides customers with peace of mind and the ability to monitor their belongings throughout the journey.

10. Post-Move Tips

Once the move is completed, there are still important tasks to consider.

Settling into a New Home

Address Changes: Update your address with the post office and all relevant institutions.
Utilities and Services: Arrange for the transfer of electricity, gas, internet, and other services.

Community Resources

Explore local events and community groups to help settle into your new neighborhood and ease the transition.