How to Choose the Right Moving Company

The Importance of Choosing the Right Mover

Your choice of moving company can determine whether your relocation is a positive experience or a nightmare. Unfortunately, the moving industry includes both exceptional professionals and unscrupulous operators who may damage your belongings, hold them hostage for additional payment, or simply disappear with your possessions.

In Canada, the moving industry is regulated by provincial and federal authorities, but regulations vary by province and type of move. Understanding what to look for in a legitimate, professional moving company will protect you from costly mistakes and ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home.

Essential Licensing and Insurance Requirements

Provincial Licensing

Every legitimate moving company in Canada must have proper licensing:

• Intra-provincial moves: Regulated by provincial transportation authorities
• Inter-provincial moves: Regulated by Transport Canada
• International moves: Additional customs and international shipping certifications required

Always ask for and verify license numbers. In Ontario, movers need a CVOR (Commercial Vehicle Operator's Registration). In British Columbia, they require PSV (Passenger and Special Vehicle) licensing. Each province has its own regulatory requirements.

Insurance Coverage

Professional moving companies must carry several types of insurance:

• Liability Insurance: Protects against damage to your property or the buildings
• Cargo Insurance: Covers your belongings during transport
• Workers' Compensation: Protects you from liability if movers are injured on your property
• Commercial Auto Insurance: Covers the moving vehicles

Request proof of insurance and ensure policies are current. Never hire a moving company that cannot provide insurance documentation.

Researching Company Reputation

Online Reviews and Ratings

Research companies thoroughly using multiple sources:

• Google Reviews: Look for recent reviews and overall rating patterns
• Better Business Bureau (BBB): Check accreditation status and complaint history
• Yelp and Facebook: Read detailed customer experiences
• Industry Associations: Check membership in professional moving associations

Red Flags in Reviews

Watch for these warning signs in customer reviews:

• Consistently late arrivals or no-shows
• Demands for cash payments or deposits
• Damaged or missing belongings
• Significantly higher final costs than quoted
• Poor communication or unprofessional behavior
• Holding belongings hostage for additional payment

Professional Associations

Membership in industry associations indicates professionalism:

• Canadian Association of Movers (CAM): National organization with strict standards
• Provincial moving associations: Each province has local organizations
• International Association of Movers (IAM): For international moves

Getting and Comparing Estimates

Types of Estimates

Understand the different types of moving estimates:

• Non-binding estimate: An approximation that can change based on actual weight/services
• Binding estimate: A fixed price that cannot exceed the quoted amount
• Binding not-to-exceed: A maximum price with potential for lower final cost

In-Home vs. Virtual Estimates

For accuracy, in-home estimates are preferred for larger moves:

• In-home estimates: Most accurate for significant relocations
• Virtual estimates: Acceptable for smaller moves or during restrictions
• Phone/online estimates: Least accurate, suitable only for very small moves

Questions to Ask During Estimates

Ask these essential questions during the estimate process:

• What is included in the quoted price?
• What additional charges might apply?
• What insurance options are available?
• What is your claims process for damage?
• How do you handle delays or complications?
• What payment methods do you accept?
• Can you provide recent customer references?

Understanding Pricing and Avoiding Scams

Common Pricing Models

Moving companies typically use these pricing structures:

• Hourly rates: Common for local moves, usually includes travel time
• Weight-based pricing: Long-distance moves charged by weight and distance
• Flat-rate pricing: All-inclusive pricing for specific services

Additional Charges to Expect

Legitimate additional charges may include:

• Stairs or elevator fees
• Long carry distances
• Packing materials and services
• Storage fees
• Appliance disconnection/reconnection
• Special handling for fragile items

Pricing Red Flags

Be suspicious of:

• Estimates significantly lower than others
• Demands for large deposits or cash payments
• Door-to-door sales tactics
• No written estimate provided
• Pressure to sign immediately
• Rental truck pricing for full-service moves

Evaluating Service Offerings

Core Moving Services

Professional moving companies should offer:

• Loading and unloading services
• Transportation in appropriate vehicles
• Basic protection for your belongings
• Professional, trained crew members
• Proper moving equipment and tools

Additional Services to Consider

• Packing Services: Professional packing can save time and provide additional protection
• Storage Solutions: Useful for timing mismatches or temporary storage needs
• Specialty Moving: Pianos, artwork, antiques, or other valuable items
• Assembly/Disassembly: Furniture and fixture handling
• Cleaning Services: Some companies offer post-move cleaning

Communication and Professionalism

Response Time and Availability

Professional companies demonstrate:

• Prompt responses to inquiries
• Clear, professional communication
• Flexibility in scheduling
• Proactive updates about your move
• Easy-to-reach customer service

Staff Training and Appearance

Look for companies whose staff:

• Arrive in company uniforms or clearly identified clothing
• Use professional moving equipment
• Demonstrate knowledge of proper moving techniques
• Treat your home and belongings with respect
• Maintain professional conduct throughout the process

Contract and Documentation

Essential Contract Elements

Your moving contract should include:

• Complete company information and licensing numbers
• Detailed description of services to be provided
• Pickup and delivery dates and addresses
• Total cost breakdown and payment terms
• Insurance coverage details
• Claims procedure information
• Cancellation and delay policies

Important Documents to Obtain

Ensure you receive:

• Written estimate or quote
• Signed moving contract
• Insurance certificate
• License verification
• Inventory list of items being moved
• Contact information for move coordination

Special Considerations for Different Move Types

Local Moves

For local moves within the same city or province:

• Verify local licensing and insurance
• Understand hourly rate structures
• Confirm minimum time charges
• Ask about travel time policies

Long-Distance Moves

For moves between provinces or long distances:

• Ensure proper interprovincial licensing
• Understand weight-based pricing
• Clarify delivery timeframes
• Discuss storage options for delays

International Moves

For moves to or from Canada:

• Verify international moving certification
• Understand customs requirements
• Clarify responsibility for documentation
• Confirm insurance coverage across borders

Making Your Final Decision

Comparing Multiple Companies

Create a comparison chart including:

• License and insurance verification
• Total cost estimates
• Services included
• Customer review summaries
• Availability and scheduling flexibility
• Communication quality

Trust Your Instincts

Beyond the technical factors, consider:

• How comfortable you feel with the company
• Whether they answer questions thoroughly
• If they seem genuinely interested in providing good service
• Whether their promises seem realistic

Conclusion

Choosing the right moving company requires careful research, multiple estimates, and attention to both technical qualifications and interpersonal factors. Take time to verify licensing and insurance, read customer reviews, compare detailed estimates, and trust your instincts about professionalism and communication.

Remember that the lowest price is not always the best value. A slightly higher cost for a reputable, professional company is often a wise investment that can save you significant stress, time, and potential additional costs from damage or delays.

By following these guidelines and asking the right questions, you can confidently select a moving company that will handle your belongings with care and make your relocation as smooth as possible.