If you are moving soon, you are probably eager to know how much it will cost to hire a mover in Ontario, right? Since moving is a big step, we get it. Knowing the price upfront makes a big difference as you can better prepare.
The truth is, depending on your needs and the moving company policy, prices vary based on many key factors.
Whether you are relocating across town, the province or even across the country, you deserve an accurate estimation.
- To help you budget wisely, hire a mover, and avoid any unplanned costs along the way, we invite you to keep reading as we break it down for you.

How much does it cost to hire a mover in Ontario based on the date?
Your moving date can be the factor that makes you save hundreds of dollars or makes you explode your initial budget.
The reason behind that is simple, it’s a question of supply and demand. If you have to move during the peak season, get ready to pay more. However, if you have the luxury to move during the low season, you have the opportunity to pay a lower hourly rate.
Typically, in Ontario, a local move can cost anywhere between :
- 140$ and 500$ per hour
- 500$ and 4 000$ total
In the following table, you’ll find an hourly price average based on different dates and number of movers hired.
Date | Price/2 movers | Price/3 movers |
May 1st – 30th | 110$ – 165$/h | 130$ – 195$/h |
June 1st – 15th | 125$ – 180$/h | 150$ – 230$/h |
June 16th – 23rd | 150$ – 270$/h | 170$ – 300$/h |
June 24 – 30th | N/A | 175$ – 310$/h |
July 1st | N/A | Up to 500$/h |
July 2nd – 10th | 145$ – 170$/h | 170$ – 200$/h |
July 11 – 30th | 125$ – 150$/h | 170$ – 190$/h |
August 1st – April 30th | 110$ – 150$/h | 130$ – 175$/h |
The best way for you to budget for your move is to get quotes tailored to your needs by filling out our form.

How to estimate the cost to hire a mover in Ontario?
When it comes to moving, no matter where in Ontario, there’s no one-size-fits-all price. It’s the complete opposite! This type of service is established from several factors, including:
- Moving date
- Time required
- Number of movers
- Distance to cover
As you may guess, they are not the only ones. Here are a few more key factors to take into consideration:
- Amount of items - the more items, the more time
- Type of service - basic or full luxury
- Accessibility - parking, hallway, steps, elevator
When determining moving costs, many elements come into play. That’s why it’s always smart to compare rates from multiple movers before booking.
How much does it cost to move with a professional moving company?
Professional moving services come with obvious expenses, but some might surprise you. Here are some essentials you need to budget for:
Loading and unloading
A good rule of thumb, expect about one hour per room to get everything packed and moved.
Transportation
Fuel and mileage are usually included in the price, but you better review your quote.
Moving supplies
If you need supplies, many of our partner movers offer them at reasonable prices, so be sure to ask for a rate list.
Insurance
To cover any issues arising, you must know that a reliable moving company is insured.
Are you moving if you don’t have pizza?
If you have friends and family coming to give you a hand, don’t forget to feed them.
Looking for a good deal to hire a mover? In Ontario, some movers offer special discounts. So be sure to shop around!
Scenarios of the average cost to hire a mover in the Ontario area
Right below, you can see a detailed table outlining different moving contracts and their starting prices. For example, hiring two movers typically costs between $140 and $150 per hour.
Moving price average | Studio / 1 bedroom | 2 bedrooms | 3 bedrooms | 4+ bedrooms |
Number of movers | 2 | 2 – 3 | 2 – 3 | 3 – 4 |
Estimated hours | 3 – 5 | 4 – 6 | 7 – 9 | 10 – 12 |
Starting price | 550$ – 970$ | 670$ – 1 090$ | 2 100$ – 3 050$ | 2 190$ – 4 200$ |
- Number of movers: The number of movers varies based on the complexity and volume of items to be moved.
- Estimated time required: This varies depending on factors like distance between locations, accessibility, and the amount of belongings.
- Average price entry: Prices are approximate and vary among companies.
Please remember that these figures are estimates. Your price will be based on the specific circumstances of your move.
It’s always recommended to obtain personalized quotes from multiple moving companies to get an accurate estimate tailored to your needs.
What are the average moving prices depending on the time of year in Ontario?
Of course, prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year. For example, on July 1st, famously known as “Moving Day”, prices can skyrocket. You can expect to see the hourly rates go up by 30% to 40% due to high demand!
It’s so true that booking your mover in advance is always a smart move to avoid any surprises.
On the other hand, during the winter season, you might find companies offering lower rates. But, if you come across businesses charging well below the usual prices mentioned above, proceed with caution. It’s important to ensure that they’re offering a full-service, high-quality move.
A red flag could be inadequate insurance coverage, so always before you hire a mover, double-check their policies.

What day is the cheapest to hire a mover in Ontario?
If you have flexibility and are looking to save on moving costs in Ontario, the best time to hire movers is during the low moving season. This typically is between late summer and late spring.
What you need to know?
- Weekdays, especially Mondays through Thursdays, are usually cheaper since the demand is lower.
- Avoid moving during weekends, holidays and summer time when many people are relocating. As you may imagine, these periods can drive prices up.
- Moving mid-month or mid-week is often your sweet spot for getting the best rates while still securing high-quality movers.
Also, don’t forget to book in advance. It gives you a better chance at snagging a good deal, so why wait?
What factors make moving costs vary?
Did you ever wonder why one move costs 500$ while another is 750$, or one is 1 200$ while the other reaches 2 900$? The truth is, that moving costs are based on more factors than you could think of.
Here’s a quick overview of the key factors that can influence the price:
- Distance to cover
- Amount of belongings
- Presence of heavy items
- Accessibility to the properties
- Time required
- Number of hired movers
- Moving date booked
- Chosen moving company
Prices differ significantly as no moves are the same. To find the best movers for your needs and budget, contact Compare Movers today!

How does the duration of the move affect the cost?
It is no news that time is money, especially when it comes to moving. Since movers typically charge by the hour, the longer your move takes, the higher your bill will be.
Sadly, many things can bring your 5 hours move, to 6, 7 or 8 hours.
- Poor organization
- Heavy furniture
- Difficult access
- Tight staircases
- Long walking distances
- Absence of elevator
The more time movers spend maneuvering through these obstacles, the more you’ll pay.
If you want to keep costs down, then be prepared. Pack everything in advance, disassemble furniture, and ensure easy access to both locations. You can also compare multiple moving quotes to find movers with efficient teams who work faster.
At the end of the day, you save money!
How does having 2 or 3 movers change your moving rate?
You might think hiring just two movers is the cheapest option. However, that’s not always the case! Think about it, more hands mean a faster move, which can actually save you money.
- With 2 movers, the hourly rate is lower, but the job takes longer. If you have lots of furniture or heavy items, it can slow things down significantly.
- With 3 movers, the hourly rate is slightly higher, but the work gets done much faster. The team can load and unload efficiently, cutting down total hours, and possibly lowering your final bill.
What we are saying isn’t to book 3 movers, but to take the time to assess your needs. The best choice depends on your home size and the complexity of your move.
To obtain the best price, compare moving quotes and find the perfect balance between speed and cost!

How do short-distance and long-distance moves impact moving prices?
Are you planning to hire a mover to relocate a few blocks away or relocate to another city? Distance plays a huge role in your moving cost!
- For a short-distance move, pricing is usually based on hourly rates. The total cost depends on how long it takes to load, drive, and unload your belongings. A well-planned, efficient move can help keep your costs low.
- For a long-distance move, pricing often includes mileage, fuel, and travel time. Some movers charge a flat rate based on distance and weight, while others use a per-hour model. The farther you go, the more expensive it gets.
In any case, don’t forget to compare offers from professional moving companies to find the most cost-effective option for your upcoming move.
What are the different categories of services when you hire a mover?
Depending on your needs and your budget, you can choose from a variety of moving services.
Let’s go through a quick breakdown of the most popular options:
Standard moving service
Perfect for those on a budget, this option includes loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings.
You pack, and they handle the heavy lifting.
Premium service moving
Ideal for those who want an easy move, full-serving moving handles everything.
It includes packing, loading, transport, unloading, and even unpacking.
No need to worry! You don’t have to choose just one option! Most moving companies offer customizable services, allowing you to add extra options to your basic package.
Now, let’s explore some additional services to consider.
Packing services
If you’re short on time, you can hire professional packers to pack up your home.
They bring all the materials, ensuring everything is safely wrapped and ready for transport.
Specialized moving
Do you have heavy or fragile items like pianos, artwork, or antiques?
Specialized movers have the expertise to handle these items with care.
Storage solutions
Do you need a place to store your belongings before or after the move?
Many moving companies offer storage options to keep your items safe and secure.
Long-distance moving
If you’re relocating across the province or even to another part of the country, long-distance moving services are your go-to.
These movers specialize in handling large moves over long distances.
No matter what type of move you’re planning, there’s a service designed to fit your needs.
How much does your moving service choice influence the cost?
The type of service you choose has a big impact on the overall cost of your move. It’s no surprise that the more tasks you delegate, the higher the price tends to be.
On the flip side, the more hands-on you are, the more affordable your move can be.

What’s the cost of moving supplies?
When planning your move, don’t forget to account for the cost of moving supplies! While it might seem like a small detail, the price of boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other essentials can add up quickly.
- On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $300 for the supplies needed for a typical move.
- The exact cost will depend on the size of your home and how many items need to be packed.
Fortunately, many moving companies offer package deals, which can help you save on supplies. Plus, some even sell boxes at reasonable prices, so you won’t have to search high and low.
However, if you’re looking to save on supplies, consider reaching out to friends who have recently moved or check with local stores in your area. Many businesses give away delivery boxes for free, and they can be a great alternative to purchasing new ones!
How can moving insurance protect your belongings?
Moving insurance is your safety net when it comes to protecting your belongings during the move. While professional movers take great care, accidents can happen, whether it’s a broken vase, a scratched sofa, or a damaged TV.
Having the right insurance ensures you’re covered, so you won’t be left with the financial burden of replacing valuable items.
Depending on how much peace of mind you need, there are different types of moving insurance to choose from, such as basic coverage or full-value protection.
Ask your moving company about insurance options and choose the plan that best fits your needs. Your belongings deserve that extra layer of protection!
Looking to hire a mover? How do companies provide a quote for a move?
Getting a moving quote has never been easier! Instead of calling multiple companies one by one, save time by using Compare Movers. It’s the largest referral platform connecting you with top-rated professional movers.
Simply fill out a quick form, and within a few clicks, you’ll receive 5 free quotes tailored to your move. There is no fee, and you are under no obligation!
Whether you’re moving into a small apartment or a large house, this service helps you compare prices, services, and customer reviews so you can make the best choice.
By choosing from trusted and experienced movers, you ensure quality service at a fair price.
Hire a person to help move - What are the 6 top tips for cutting costs?
Moving can be expensive, but with the right strategies, you can keep costs under control without sacrificing quality. Here’s how:
- Avoid moving during the high season
- Declutter before you pack to reduce the load
- Compare multiple quotes to find the best deal
- Source free packing supplies
- Get involved to reduce the mover’s charge for time and labour
- Don’t be shy to ask about discounts
Do you want to find the best moving price? Get up to 5 free quotes today!
What are the steps to take before you move?
Luckily, with the right planning, you can drastically minimize the stress of moving! For that, we recommend starting your preparation as early as 8 weeks before moving day.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure everything goes smoothly.
2 months before
- Choose your moving date
- Compare moving quotes with our user-friendly platform
- Make sure to block your schedule
- Prepare your change of address checklist
- Plan any daycare/school changes (if applicable)
- Declutter your belongings
1 month before
- Buy moving boxes, tape, marker
- Start packing items you won’t need right away
- Make a list of valuable items to move yourself
- Ask friends and family members to help
1 week before
- Gather all the tools you’ll need
- Finish packing
- Pack an essentials box for the first days
- Confirm with your helpers
Moving day!
- Have all the information for your new home, plus the keys
- Be ready for the movers
- Triple check you haven't missed anything
- Order pizza for your friends!
Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you plan ahead!
Are you moving soon? Get up to 5 free quotes from reliable movers in Ontario!
Moving doesn’t have to cost you a fortune! As you may know by now, Compare Movers is a referral platform, now established all across Ontario. What does it mean? You can access the best companies near you and get personalized offers.
So, if you’re looking to get access to the best rates, you have landed at the right place.
- Feel free to fill out our form to receive up to 5 quotes from experienced and trusted movers in your area.
Start saving time and money today by asking for free quotes from top movers in Ontario!