Moving is a significant life event, whether you’re relocating for a job, a lifestyle change, or a family reason. However, as many people know, moving can also be a costly and stressful process. From hiring movers to purchasing packing supplies, expenses can quickly add up. The good news is that there are ways to reduce costs, especially if you’re strategic about when you choose to move.

In this article, we’ll discuss the cheapest time to move, provide tips for saving on your relocation in Canada, and explore additional strategies to ensure you don’t break the bank during your move.

Understanding the Cost of Moving in Canada

Before we dive into the cheapest time to move, it’s essential to understand the factors that contribute to the cost of moving in Canada. Moving costs vary depending on several key elements:

1. Distance: The farther you’re moving, the higher the cost. Moving within the same city is less expensive than moving between provinces or cross-country.
2. Size of the Move: A larger move with more items means higher costs due to additional time, packing materials, and labor. If you’re moving a one-bedroom apartment, it will cost less than moving a four-bedroom house.
3. Time of Year: This is one of the most influential factors in the cost of moving. Moving companies experience fluctuations in demand based on the season, which directly affects pricing. More on that in the next section.
4. Additional Services: Extra services like packing, unpacking, furniture disassembly and reassembly, or temporary storage can also add to the overall expense of your move.

When Is the Cheapest Time to Move in Canada?

So, when should you move to save the most money? The best time to move can vary depending on your personal schedule and flexibility, but here are the times of year that generally offer the best deals:

1. Off-Peak Moving Season (Fall and Winter)

In Canada, the cheapest time to move typically falls during the fall (September to November) and winter (December to February) months. These seasons are often considered the off-peak season in the moving industry, and here’s why:

Why Fall and Winter Are the Cheapest Times to Move

• Lower Demand: Fewer people move during the colder months, which means moving companies are less busy and more likely to offer lower rates to attract customers.
• Availability of Movers: During the off-peak season, moving companies have more availability, and you can often find better deals or discounts since there are fewer bookings.
• Flexible Scheduling: With less demand, you’ll have more flexibility when scheduling your move, allowing you to pick dates that work best for you without worrying about a limited selection of moving times.

However, there are some weather challenges to keep in mind if you’re moving during the fall or winter. In provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec, you may face snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and slippery roads, making moving conditions less than ideal. If you’re planning to move in the winter, make sure you are well-prepared for the cold weather and potential delays caused by snow or ice.

2. Weekdays (Monday to Thursday)

Another key factor that influences the cost of moving is the day of the week. If possible, avoid moving on weekends. Friday through Sunday tend to be the busiest days for moving companies, as most people are available to relocate during the weekend.

Why Weekdays Are Cheaper

• Less Competition: Weekdays, especially Monday to Thursday, tend to have fewer people moving, meaning moving companies have more flexibility and are often more willing to offer competitive rates.
• Discounted Rates: Many moving companies offer discounts for weekday moves, as they want to maximize their business during the slower days of the week. By moving mid-week, you might be able to negotiate a better deal.
• More Time for Your Move: Weekday moves may offer you more time to get everything done, as the moving company may not be as rushed. This is especially beneficial for larger moves.

3. Mid-Month Moves

While many people tend to move at the beginning or end of the month (when leases typically start or end), mid-month moves are generally cheaper. The reason for this is that moving companies are often less busy during these times.

Why Mid-Month Moves Are More Affordable

• Fewer Moves: Since most leases start or end at the beginning or end of the month, the middle of the month tends to be quieter, making it easier to book moving services at a lower cost.
• Better Availability: With fewer moves scheduled during the middle of the month, you’ll have more flexibility in booking your move and might get better availability with your desired moving company.

4. Avoiding Peak Moving Season (May to September)

The peak season for moving in Canada generally spans from May to September, especially during the summer months when weather conditions are most favorable. While this is a great time for moving, it also means higher demand and, therefore, higher prices.

Why May to September Is Expensive

• Increased Demand: Many people prefer to move during the warmer months, particularly when schools are out, and the weather is favorable for heavy lifting and transporting belongings. As a result, moving companies are in high demand and charge higher rates.
• Limited Availability: Because of the high volume of moves, moving companies are often fully booked months in advance, and you might be forced to choose less convenient moving dates or pay premium prices.

If you must move during this period, it’s important to book your moving company well in advance and try to avoid peak weekends (the beginning or end of the month).

Additional Tips for Saving on Your Move

While timing is critical to saving money, there are several other strategies that can help lower your overall moving expenses:

1. Declutter Before Moving

One of the easiest ways to save on your move is by decluttering your home. The fewer things you have to move, the less you’ll have to pay for. Here are some decluttering tips:

• Sell or Donate: Host a garage sale, sell items online, or donate to charity. Not only will this reduce the number of things you need to pack, but it can also earn you some extra cash.
• Throw Away: Be ruthless in getting rid of things you haven’t used in a while. Old furniture, clothing, and other household items can be a drain on your moving budget.

2. Pack Your Own Items

Many moving companies offer packing services, but these services come at an additional cost. If you’re able, packing your own items can save you hundreds of dollars. Here are a few tips for packing efficiently:

• Use old newspaper or blankets to wrap fragile items.
• Ask for free boxes from local stores or online marketplaces.
• Start packing well in advance to ensure you’re not rushing last minute.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

Before committing to a moving company, it’s crucial to shop around. Contact at least three different companies for quotes, and compare their rates, services, and reviews. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices or ask for a discount, especially if you’re moving during the off-peak season.

4. Consider DIY Moving

If you’re only moving a short distance, consider a DIY move. Rent a moving truck, enlist the help of friends or family, and handle the move yourself. While it requires more work on your end, it can save you significant money, especially for small apartments or houses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How much do movers cost in Canada?

A: The cost of hiring professional movers in Canada varies widely. For local moves, you can expect to pay around $100 to $200 per hour for a moving crew. For long-distance moves, the cost can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the distance and size of the move.

Q: When is the best time to book a moving company?

A: The best time to book a moving company is several months in advance, especially during peak moving season (May to September). However, booking a weekday move during the fall or winter can help you avoid the rush and get a better deal.

Q: Can I save money by moving myself?

A: Yes, if you’re moving locally or only have a few belongings, a DIY move can save you money. Renting a truck and recruiting friends or family to help can significantly cut costs, but be sure to factor in the time and effort involved.

Conclusion

Choosing the cheapest time to move in Canada requires understanding the peak and off-peak seasons, and being flexible with your move date. For the best deals, consider moving in fall or winter, on weekdays, and in the middle of the month. In addition, decluttering your belongings, packing yourself, and shopping around for quotes will help lower your moving costs. Remember, moving is not just about the right time but also about preparation and finding the right movers for your needs.

By being strategic and planning ahead, you can make your relocation affordable and stress-free. The key to a successful move is a little patience, smart planning, and knowing when to move.