How to Compare Moving Quotes Like a Pro
How to compare moving quotes anywhere in Canada: what to check beyond the hourly rate, which fees to ask about and the warning signs of a vague estimate.
The cheapest hourly rate is not always the cheapest move. To compare quotes fairly, give every mover the same inventory, ask what is included, and compare the likely total, not just the headline rate. Always get the quote in writing before you book.
Give every mover the same information
Describe the same move to each company: both addresses, stairs and elevators, the number of rooms, large or fragile items, and the date. If one mover sees your home on a video walkthrough and another guesses by phone, their numbers will not be comparable.
What should a good quote include?
- The mover’s name, address and contact details
- Each service with an itemized price
- Crew size, truck and the hourly rate or flat price
- Minimum hours and any truck or travel fee
- Charges for stairs, long carries and specialty items
- Insurance or liability coverage and what it covers
- Start date, payment terms and the cancellation policy
In Ontario, a moving contract worth more than $50 must be in writing, and in every province a written quote is your best protection. See our guide to your rights when hiring movers for the rules where you live.
Which fees catch people out?
- A travel or truck fee added on top of the hourly rate
- A high minimum number of hours
- Fuel surcharges
- Charges for stairs, long carries and heavy items
- Packing materials and disassembly billed separately
- Tax: confirm whether the price includes GST, HST or provincial sales tax
How do I compare an hourly quote with a flat-rate quote?
Estimate the hours with each mover and add the fees. A flat rate removes the risk of the move running long; an hourly rate can be cheaper if you are well prepared. See hourly vs flat-rate movers.
What are warning signs?
- A price over the phone with no questions about your move
- No written quote, or a quote with no company details
- A large deposit demanded up front
- Pressure to book immediately
- A rate far below every other quote
Read more in our guide to spotting a moving scam.
Next step
Ask for itemized, written quotes from two or three movers, then compare the full picture. We are happy to be one of them: request a free quote.
