Movers and Moving Services Explained

What’s Included and What Costs Extra

People move for many reasons, such as starting a new job, downsizing or relocating to be closer to family. While moving into a new home can be exciting, it often comes with a high price tag. Between hiring movers and moving services, buying packing supplies, setting up utilities and possibly paying for temporary storage, the total cost can reach thousands of dollars. If you’re using professional moving services or arranging moving services & storage on your own, understanding what is typically included in a move, what extra charges to watch for and how to cut costs can help keep your expenses under control.

What’s Included in a Standard Move

When you book a standard moving service, here’s what you can typically expect:

Truck and Transportation

The moving company provides a vehicle that’s sized to fit your belongings. The truck is used for loading at your current location and unloading at your destination. This is often included as part of the hourly or flat-rate pricing.

Moving Crew

Professional movers are responsible for carrying your items to and from the truck. The number of workers can vary based on the size of your home. For local moves, their labour is usually billed by the hour. For long-distance moves, the cost is often based on the weight of your belongings and the distance of the move.

Fuel and Travel Time

Most companies charge for fuel and travel time, either as a set fee or as part of their hourly rate. Be aware that “travel time” often includes the time it takes the crew to get from their office to your home and from your new home back to their office.

Basic Liability Coverage

By law, full service moving companies must provide a minimum level of protection known as Released Value Protection. This covers your belongings at a rate of $0.60 per pound per item, regardless of the item’s actual value. For example, if a 50-pound television is damaged, you would only be compensated $30 ($0.60 x 50 lbs).

Price Range

Expect rates between $120 and $250+ per hour for a truck and a crew of two to three movers. A small apartment move might take 3-5 hours, while a large family home could take 8+ hours, leading to costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

Additional or Hidden Costs

Beyond the base moving fee, there are several expenses that can add to your total bill, some expected, others less obvious.

Packing Materials

Packing materials have become more expensive in recent years. Cardboard, bubble wrap and other common supplies now cost more due to rising raw material prices and global supply issues. Buying enough for a full household move can add unexpected costs.

Packing Services

If you want the movers to handle packing, you’ll likely pay more. A full service moving company may charge extra for fragile items, detailed labelling or organizing by room.

Furniture Disassembly and Reassembly

Large furniture that doesn’t fit through doorways or stairwells may need to be taken apart. Some movers’ moving services include this, but many charge additional labour time.

Storage Between Moves

If your move-in date doesn’t align with your move-out date, you may need short-term storage. Moving services & storage options can include both space rental fees and handling charges.

Utility Reconnection Fees

Hydro, gas, internet and other utilities often charge setup or transfer fees when you move to a new address.

Extra Insurance

Since basic liability only covers $0.60 per pound, it’s a good idea to consider extra coverage. You can usually get it through the moving company or your home insurer.

Repairs and Cleaning

Before leaving your old place, you might need to patch holes, clean carpets or fix minor damage. This is especially true for renters hoping to get their deposit back.

Elevator or Stair Fees

Some buildings charge for elevator use during a move or require an elevator booking. If your new place has narrow stairs or no elevator, you might also pay more for the added effort.

How to Reduce Moving Costs

With some planning and smart choices, you can keep your moving expenses under control. Here are practical ways to save:

Compare Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle for the first price you’re given. Get at least three written estimates from different moving services. Ask for a breakdown of what’s included. Smaller or independent movers may charge less than larger national firms and sometimes offer more flexible services.

Use a Moving Container

Instead of hiring a full service moving company, consider renting a moving container. It’s dropped off at your location so you can load it at your own pace. Once packed, the container is transported to your new address. This option can reduce both labour and timing pressure and is often more affordable.

Dismantle Furniture Yourself

Movers charge by the hour, so the less time they spend disassembling furniture, the lower your bill. Take apart beds, shelves and large items yourself in advance. Keep screws and parts organized to make reassembly easier later.

Declutter and Sell What You Don’t Need

Every extra item increases the cost. Before packing, sort through your belongings and sell or give away anything you no longer use. Use Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji or host a yard sale. Decluttering reduces the number of items to move, which can lower costs and speed up the process.

Buy Second-Hand for the New Place

If you’re furnishing a new home, look for second-hand options. Online resale platforms often have well-priced or even free furniture and household goods. This is helpful if you’ve sold bulky items before the move and need replacements.

Avoid Peak Times

Movers and moving services often charge more during busy seasons and weekends. To save money, schedule your move on a weekday or during the fall or winter months, when demand is lower. You’ll likely have more availability and better rates.

Track All Costs for Tax Deductions

If you’re moving for work, to start a business or to be a full-time student at a post-secondary institution, you may be able to claim eligible moving expenses on your tax return. According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), your new home must be at least 40 kilometres closer to your new job or school. You can claim costs like transportation, storage, meals and temporary accommodation for up to 15 days. Keep all receipts so you can claim these expenses on Line 21900 (Moving Expenses). Note: You can only deduct these costs against income earned at your new location.

Planning a move starts with the right property. A REMAX agent can guide you through every step of the buying or selling process. Connect with a local expert today.