National Moving Costs Overview
Average local move: $800-1,500. Average long-distance move: $2,500-6,000.
Based on data from thousands of moves booked through Boxly and industry surveys, here's what Canadians are actually paying in 2025.
Local Moves (Under 50 km)
| Move Size | Average Cost | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/1BR | $450 | $300-650 |
| 2BR | $800 | $550-1,100 |
| 3BR | $1,200 | $900-1,600 |
| 4BR+ | $1,800 | $1,400-2,500 |
Long-Distance Moves
| Distance | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100-500 km | $1,500 | $2,500 | $3,500 |
| 500-1000 km | $2,500 | $3,800 | $5,000 |
| 1000+ km | $3,500 | $5,500 | $7,500 |
Data current as of January 2025. Prices include standard service, excludes packing materials and specialty items.
City-by-City Breakdown
Toronto Local 2BR average: $950
- Most expensive major market
- High demand = higher prices
- Many buildings require elevator booking fees ($50-150)
Vancouver Local 2BR average: $900
- Parking challenges increase costs
- Long carry fees common in older buildings
- Summer months book out 6+ weeks ahead
Calgary Local 2BR average: $750
- Most competitive market in major cities
- Lots of moving companies = better prices
- Winter moves can be cheaper but weather-dependent
Montreal Local 2BR average: $650
- July 1st moving day creates annual chaos
- Book 8+ weeks out for summer moves
- French-speaking movers sometimes lower cost
Ottawa Local 2BR average: $700
- Government moves often subsidized (less competition for private moves)
- Reasonable pricing year-round
- Less seasonal variation than other cities
What Affects Your Moving Cost
The Big Factors
- Distance — Obvious, but the biggest cost driver for long moves
- Volume — More stuff = more truck space = more cost
- Access — Stairs, no elevator, long walks from truck
- Time of year — Summer and month-end are most expensive
- Day of week — Weekends cost 10-20% more
- Labor market — Cities with more movers have better prices
Hidden Costs to Watch
- Packing materials (boxes, tape, wrap)
- Disassembly/reassembly (beds, desks)
- Appliance disconnection/reconnection
- Long carry fees (if truck can't park close)
- Stairs (typically $50-75 per flight)
- Heavy items (pianos, safes, gym equipment)
How to Save on Moving Costs
Move mid-week, mid-month, in off-season. Declutter ruthlessly. Get multiple quotes.
Timing Strategies
- Move Tuesday-Thursday (10-15% cheaper)
- Avoid end of month (peak demand)
- Winter moves are 20-30% cheaper (but weather risk)
- Book 4-6 weeks out for best rates
Volume Reduction Every box you don't move saves $5-15. Be ruthless:
- Donate, sell, or toss items you haven't used in a year
- Don't pay to move things worth less than the move cost
- Consider replacing cheap furniture instead of moving it
Comparison Shopping
- Get at least 3 quotes
- Ensure quotes include the same services
- Video estimates are more accurate than phone quotes
- Watch for hidden fees in the fine print
Get accurate moving quotes in minutes. Compare movers on Boxly — transparent pricing, no hidden fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the average move cost in Canada?
For local moves (under 50 km), the average cost ranges from $450 for a studio to $1,800+ for a 4+ bedroom home. Long-distance moves typically range from $1,500 to $7,500+ depending on distance and home size.
What is the cheapest time of year to move in Canada?
Winter months (November-February) are typically 20-30% cheaper for moving. Mid-week moves (Tuesday-Thursday) and mid-month dates also offer better rates compared to weekends and month-end.
Why do moving costs vary so much between cities?
Moving costs vary based on local labor costs, competition between moving companies, urban density (affecting parking and building access), and seasonal demand. Toronto and Vancouver are most expensive due to high demand and access challenges.