How much does a move cost?

Is it better to move on your own or hire professional movers? 

If you have a limited budget and can count on people to help you, you may want to consider moving by yourself. In this case, you’ll need to borrow or rent a truck.  

The cost of a moving truck

The price of a rental truck can vary based on a number of factors: 

• Its size 
• The pickup and drop-off locations 
• The mileage 
• The rental period
• The time of year 
• Insurance 

During the off-season, the base rate for a 15-foot truck, which is large enough to move the contents of a two-bedroom apartment, ranges from $30 to $120 for one day. If you live in Quebec and are moving in July – the busiest time of year – expect to pay more, even double. By booking your truck several months in advance, you can lower the bill. 

The cost of movers

If you decide to hire professional movers, hourly rates range from $125 to $175, including a truck, two movers, and damage insurance (extra services and tips not included). 

Most companies charge a minimum of four hours, and you can expect additional charges for long-distance moves. For example, for a seven-room apartment and a 90-minute drive, you can expect to pay between $1,300 and $2,000. Again, prices in Quebec will increase as July 1 approaches. 

To reduce extra costs, make sure all your belongings are packed before the movers arrive. You can also speed up the process by disassembling certain pieces of furniture and transporting a few boxes containing special items before the big day.

Even if you pay for pizza and a few drinks, you’ll save money by asking your friends and family to lend a hand. The downside? You’re not protected from injury or property damage.  

Moving companies provide protective covers and blankets for your furniture as well as straps and other equipment for lifting heavy items. If you’re short on time, they even offer furniture disassembly and packing services. 

How do you choose a good moving company?

To avoid unpleasant surprises, hire a reliable moving company with a valid address. Make sure it has insurance to cover any damage to your belongings and at least $1 million in liability coverage. You should also request a written contract as proof of your agreement. 

Be wary of companies that advertise their services in online classified ads and only provide a phone number as their contact information. You may have difficulty obtaining compensation if you encounter any problems. To be safe, check to see if the company has received any complaints by using the search tool provided by your province or territory’s consumer affairs office (external link). 

What additional costs should you expect? 

Moving companies usually provide an estimate, but the final bill may be higher than you expected. Give as many details as possible when requesting an estimate or filling out an online form. For example, make a list of your large furniture items and specify the number of floors, stairs and elevators at both your new and old addresses. It’s in your best interest to be specific and not underestimate the amount of belongings you have. 

In addition to the basic rate, some companies add extra charges for transporting heavy, bulky or fragile items, such as glass tables, large mirrors, safes or pianos. Packing, insurance, cleaning and transportation costs can also increase the bill.  

Include a safety margin in your budget to cover unexpected expenses. For example, if your new home isn’t ready on time, you may need to pay for a temporary storage unit. By anticipating these costs, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress.

How can you prepare for your move?

Moving can be extremely stressful. To ensure everything goes smoothly, it’s best to plan ahead.  

Here’s what you can do in the weeks leading up to the big day:

• Make an inventory of your belongings and decide what you want to keep and what you’d prefer to give or throw away. 
• Make sure you have enough cardboard boxes and packing materials. 
• Label each box with its contents and the room in which it belongs to make settling into your new home easier. 
• Notify your contacts and service providers (utilities, internet, etc.) of your new address, and sign up for Canada Post’s Mail Forwarding service (external link). 
• Confirm the date and time with the moving company and make sure all administrative details have been taken care of.

The day before your move:

• Reserve a parking space for the moving truck. 
• Prepare a survival kit with a change of clothes, toiletries, snacks and any medications you may need. 
• Unplug your refrigerator and freezer at least 24 hours in advance to allow them to defrost and prevent water leaks. 
• Make sure all your boxes are clearly labelled.

On moving day:

• Arrange for someone to meet the movers at your new address. 
• Once your old residence is empty, take a look around to check that nothing has been left behind and that all windows and doors are closed. 

Moving can be expensive and stressful. By setting a budget and preparing several weeks in advance, you’ll start this new chapter of your life with greater peace of mind. 

And whether you rent or own your home, remember that it’s essential to purchase home insurance to protect your belongings in the event of damage or theft – this will also help you breathe easier.