Moving to a new home or office is often a time of excitement and change, but it can also be a significant financial burden. Whether you are moving across the city or across provinces in Canada, the costs of moving and logistics, such as hiring a moving company, purchasing packing materials, and renting trucks, can quickly add up.

1. Off-Peak Seasons (Fall and Winter)

The cheapest time to move in Canada is generally during the fall (September to November) and winter (December to February). These months are considered the off-peak season because fewer people choose to relocate during these colder months.

Why Fall and Winter Are More Affordable

• Lower Demand: During fall and winter, fewer people are moving due to the cold weather, holidays, and the return to school or work. Moving companies experience a lull in demand, meaning they are more willing to offer discounts or flexible pricing.
• More Availability: You’ll have more options when scheduling your move. Many movers are less busy, and you can secure dates that are convenient for you without the stress of limited availability.
• Cheaper Rates: With fewer moves taking place during these months, moving companies are often more willing to negotiate prices or offer you discounted rates. This makes it a great opportunity for those looking to save on their move.

However, you should keep in mind the weather challenges that can come with winter moves in Canada. Snowstorms, freezing temperatures, and icy roads in places like Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta can make the move more difficult. But if you’re prepared and flexible, moving in the winter can help you avoid the peak-season price hike.

2. Weekdays (Monday to Thursday)

Another way to save on moving costs is by opting for a weekday move. The demand for movers is typically lower during the weekdays (Monday to Thursday) compared to weekends.

Why Weekdays Are More Affordable

• Lower Demand: Most people prefer to move on weekends due to work schedules or family commitments, making weekends a peak time for movers. Moving during the weekday, when fewer people are relocating, often results in lower rates.
• Discounted Prices: Many moving companies offer special discounts for weekday moves to fill their schedules. A weekday move can help you negotiate better prices.
• Less Traffic: On weekdays, there’s often less traffic on the roads, meaning quicker and more efficient moves. Moving companies can get the job done faster, which can save you money on hourly rates.

3. Mid-Month Moves

Avoiding month-end or month-beginning moves is another strategy to keep your moving costs down. Most people move at the beginning or end of the month, particularly when leasing apartments or homes, making it a busy time for movers.

Why Mid-Month Is Cheaper

• Less Competition: With fewer people moving mid-month, moving companies are more likely to offer competitive pricing and be more flexible in scheduling.
• Better Availability: There is more availability for your desired dates, which makes scheduling easier. You’re less likely to experience booking conflicts and last-minute rush fees that can be more expensive.

If you are planning a move, try to schedule it for the middle of the month to take advantage of these reduced rates.

Tips for Finding Affordable Moving Services in Canada

Beyond timing your move, there are several other ways to make your move affordable without compromising on quality. Below are some actionable tips to help you reduce your moving costs in Canada.

1. Get Multiple Quotes from Movers

The most important step in finding affordable moving services is to compare prices from several companies. Don’t settle for the first quote you receive; instead, shop around and gather quotes from at least three different moving companies. Be sure to check:

• Inclusions: What’s included in the price? For example, does the quote cover packing and unpacking? Are there any additional charges for things like stairs, elevators, or extra furniture?
• Reviews: Look up the company’s reviews on Google, Yelp, or Trustpilot to ensure they are reputable and trustworthy.
• Insurance: Make sure that the company offers adequate insurance to protect your belongings during the move.

2. Consider Renting a Truck and Doing It Yourself (DIY Move)

If you don’t have a lot of belongings or are moving locally, consider renting a moving truck and doing it yourself. This DIY approach can save you a significant amount of money, especially for smaller moves.

Here’s how to save on a DIY move:

• Rent a truck from companies like U-Haul, Budget, or Enterprise.
• Recruit friends and family to help with packing and heavy lifting.
• Use your own packing materials like blankets, towels, and pillows to protect fragile items.

This option is particularly cost-effective for local moves where you won’t be dealing with cross-country transportation.

3. Declutter and Downsize Before You Move

One of the most effective ways to reduce the cost of your move is to declutter before you start packing. The fewer things you have to move, the less time, labor, and resources will be required by your moving company.

Here are a few ways to downsize:

• Sell items you no longer need through online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji.
• Donate gently used furniture, clothing, or household items to charities such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army.
• Recycle or dispose of broken or outdated items that are beyond repair or no longer useful.

By trimming down your belongings, you can reduce the volume of the move, which will ultimately save you money on packing and transportation.

4. Look for Moving Container Services

If you have a large move, but don’t want to hire a full-service moving company, consider using a moving container service like PODS or U-Haul U-Box. These services allow you to rent a container, pack it yourself, and have it transported to your new home.

This option is generally more affordable than hiring full-service movers and gives you the flexibility to pack at your own pace. You can also store your belongings in the container for a while before your move.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How can I save on moving costs if I have a small apartment?

A: If you have a small apartment, you can save by renting a smaller truck, packing your own items, and opting for a DIY move. You can also consider using moving containers or sharing a truck with others moving in the same direction.

Q: What’s the average cost of hiring a moving company in Canada?

A: The cost of hiring a moving company in Canada varies based on distance, the size of your move, and services required. On average, local moves cost between $100 to $200 per hour for labor, while long-distance moves can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.

Q: Is it better to hire professional movers or do it myself?

A: If you have a large amount of furniture or fragile items, hiring professional movers can be a wise choice, as they have the experience and equipment needed for a safe move. However, for smaller moves, renting a truck and handling the move yourself can be a more affordable option.

Conclusion

Moving doesn’t have to be an expensive or overwhelming process. By planning ahead, choosing the right timing, and using affordable moving services, you can save money while ensuring a smooth and stress-free relocation. Consider booking your move during off-peak seasons, comparing quotes, and utilizing DIY options to reduce costs further.

Remember that your move is about more than just transportation; it’s an opportunity for a fresh start. With the right approach, you can make your next move affordable, efficient, and even enjoyable. Safe travels and happy moving!