Let’s be honest. Most movers are professional and honest. But, like in any industry, some take advantage of unclear quotes or rushed decisions. That’s why it pays to slow down and do things properly.
To avoid getting played by movers, the most important step is to get more than one quote and compare them. It sounds basic, but many people stop after the first estimate.
Whether you need a quote for yesterday or in three months, we understand the importance of securing an accurate moving service quote. It’s what helps you stay in control of the process.
- At Compare Movers, we pride ourselves on helping customers anywhere in Canada get accurately priced quotes from moving partners we trust.
Looking for the best moving companies in Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Vancouver or elsewhere? With no obligation to book with us, ask for 5 free quotes today.
How do I get a reliable moving quote in Canada?
Getting a reliable moving quote isn’t complicated, but it does require a bit of homework. The biggest mistake people make is rushing the process or accepting the first estimate they receive.
A reliable quote starts with accurate information, multiple estimates, and a detailed written breakdown of what’s included. At the end of the day, movers can only price what they know. If important details are missing, unexpected costs often show up later on the final bill.
Assess Your Move
Before contacting movers, take a few minutes to figure out what you are moving and where it's going. Make note of large furniture, appliances, fragile items, storage spaces, and anything that may require special handling. You'll also want to know your moving date, the distance involved, and whether movers will have to deal with stairs, elevators, or long walks between the truck and your home.
The more details you provide upfront, the less likely you are to receive an inaccurate quote that changes later.
- Pickup and delivery addresses
- Desired moving date
- Home size (studio, 2-bedroom, 4-bedroom, etc.)
- Large, heavy or fragile items
- Number of flights of stairs
- Elevator availability
- Storage requirements, if any
Do Your Research Online
As stated by the Canadian Association of Movers: "It is your responsibility to make an informed choice." So before requesting quotes, go online and do your homework. Spend a few minutes checking recent customer reviews, companies' websites, physical business addresses, and clear contact information.
Pay special attention to how companies respond to complaints and whether their pricing process is explained clearly. A company that is difficult to research before the move is often difficult to deal with afterward.
- No business address listed
- Very few reviews or only perfect reviews
- No mention of insurance or liability coverage
- Extremely low prices compared to competitors
- Unclear pricing or refusal to provide details
Request an In-Person or Video Walkthrough
For larger moves, the most accurate quotes come from a home survey, either in person or by video. This allows movers to see exactly what needs to be moved instead of relying on rough descriptions. They can identify bulky furniture, difficult access points, fragile items, and other factors that affect pricing you might not have thought of.
If a mover is willing to quote a large household move without seeing anything, the estimate may be less reliable.
- Every room
- Basements, garages, and storage spaces
- Large furniture and appliances
- Fragile or specialty items
- Any access challenges at either location
Get a Written and Detailed Estimate
Forget a verbal estimate, and always request a written estimate. A professional moving quote should clearly explain the services included, the pricing method, and any additional charges that could apply. The best quotes make it easy to understand exactly what you're paying for.
- Pickup and delivery locations
- Estimated moving date
- Labour costs
- Transportation costs
- Packing services, if requested
- Fuel charges, if applicable
- Additional fees for stairs, elevators, or long carries
- Insurance or valuation options
- Total estimated cost
Once you have several written estimates based on the same information, compare them side by side. The goal isn’t always to choose the cheapest mover.
It’s to choose the company that offers the best combination of service, transparency, reputation, and value.
How to save money on my moving quote?
The easiest way to save money on a moving quote is to reduce the amount of work movers need to do. That can mean moving fewer items, choosing a less busy moving date, or handling some tasks yourself.
The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value. Focus on lowering the actual cost of the move while still hiring a reputable company.
- Get multiple quotes: The quickest way to avoid overpaying is to compare several moving companies.
- Move during off-peak dates: When possible, avoid moving at the end of the month, on weekends, or during the summer rush.
- Declutter first: Don't pay to move things you no longer need.
- Pack yourself: Full-service packing is convenient but adds significantly to the cost.
- Be upfront about access challenges: Mention stairs, elevators, narrow hallways, long carries, or parking issues in advance.
- Compare more than the price: A slightly higher quote may end up cheaper if fewer hidden fees are added later.
A lower quote isn’t always a better deal.
What’s the best way to compare moving estimates?
The best way to compare moving estimates is to make sure they’re based on the same move details and services. If one company is quoting a different inventory, date, or level of service, the comparison won’t be accurate.
- Compare apples to apples: Make sure you are evaluating the same scope of work between all moving companies.
- Review what’s included: Check labour, transportation, fuel, packing services, and any potential extra charges.
- Check future costs: See whether additional costs may apply later.
- Evaluate quality: Consider expertise, reputation, experience, reviews and transparency.
A quote that’s slightly higher but fully detailed is often a safer choice than a low estimate filled with unknowns.
How Compare Movers help you get moving quotes (step-by-step process)?
Instead of spending time researching and verifying movers on your own, our team is ready to connect you with a network of trusted and pre-verified moving companies across all Canadian provinces.
Our process is designed to improve accuracy, transparency, and consistency across all quotes you receive.
1. Submit your more details
Fill out a short online form with the basics of your move: locations, date, and what you need to move.
This allows movers to price your request accurately.
2. We match you with verified movers
Your request is shared with moving companies in your area we think would be a good match.
Each provider is selected based on reliability, service quality, and reputation.
3. Receive 5 tailored quotes
You receive up to 5 detailed quotes directly from movers.
Since all estimates are based on the same information, you can compare pricing and services confidently.
FAQ about Moving Company Quotes
1
Can I rely on moving quotes I get online?
Yes, but not blindly. Online quotes are only reliable when they are based on real move details and provided by legitimate moving companies. If a quote is vague, rushed, or given without proper information, it can change later. That's where most people run into issues.
2
How many quotes should I get before hiring a mover?
3 to 5 quotes is the sweet spot. It gives you enough perspective to understand real market pricing without overwhelming you. It also helps you spot movers that are either too cheap to be realistic or unusually expensive.
3
Why do moving quotes vary so much?
Because not all movers price the same way, and not all quotes include the same things. Some estimates are based on limited information, while others include labour, travel time, and additional services. That's why two quotes for the same move can look very different.
4
When should I get moving quotes?
Ideally, 6 to 8 weeks before your move. Waiting too long reduces your options, especially during busy periods like month-end or summer. Getting quotes early gives you time to compare properly and avoid rushed decisions.
5
How can I tell if a moving company is legit or a scam?
A legitimate mover is transparent. They provide a written estimate, have a real business presence, insurance coverage, and verifiable reviews. Be cautious of companies that avoid giving details, refuse walkthroughs, or offer prices that seem too good to be true.
6
What extra fees are often not included in moving estimates?
This is where people often get caught off guard. Common extra charges include stairs, long carry distances, elevator access, packing materials, fuel surcharges, and bulky or specialty items. Always make sure the quote clearly lists what is included and what is not.
Compare up to 5 free quotes from moving companies near you
Ready to get quotes from moving and packing companies? Instead of dealing with multiple calls, inconsistent estimates, and companies you still need to verify yourself, Compare Movers simplifies the process.
At Compare Movers, we connect people across Canada with trusted, pre-approved moving companies. The goal is to give you clear, accurate quotes you can easily compare.
- Take 2 minutes to fill out our form and start the process. It’s free, fast, and you don’t have to book with one of our partners if you don't feel like it.
No matter where you live and where you’ll move, our movers are ready to send you free quotes.
