Canadians have particular needs when it comes to finding the right moving company, because moving from one city to another within Canada, even if only to a neighbouring province or territory, very often means that you need to prepare for a long-distance move.
Long distances entail a number of logistical and planning challenges that few people have experience dealing with, because most people only move a handful of times in their lives.
To help take the stress out of your next big move, here are some tips to help you prepare and avoid some of the common problems people have when looking for the right relocation services within Canada.
Lighten your Load
If you are planning a move, this is a good time to downsize. Long distance moving costs are based on weight and the total volume of your possessions, so the less you have to move, the less it will cost. By selling or donating unwanted items, you will have less to pack, and any proceeds can help finance your move; it’s a win-win situation.
Get Quotes
Before committing to any particular company, try to get estimates from multiple long-distance moving companies in Canada.
Provide the moving companies with all the pertinent information they will need to give you an accurate estimate, like the current and future addresses, and any obstacles they might face at either location (like narrow stairwells, for example). Verify that the quote includes the quantity of boxes to be moved, the size and value of large items (like furniture), the cost breakdown, terms of payment and timeframe for delivery, as well as any other terms or conditions that might apply.
Before committing, balance the pros and cons of each estimate, so you can identify the long-distance moving services that meet your needs.
Hire a Reputable Long-Distance Moving Company
After reviewing your moving and storage estimates, compare the prices and level of service, but don’t forget to take the reputations of the companies involved into account. Seek out reviews and ask around with people you trust so you can find out which long-distance moving company you can trust with your possessions.
If you get an estimate that is far cheaper than the rest, it warrants a healthy dose of skepticism. Going with the cheapest option probably isn’t in your best interest, because, as with many other services, you get what you pay for when it comes to long-distance moving companies.
Verify the Timetable
Having an accurate timetable is absolutely essential if you want your move to go according to plan. You will want to be ready and waiting at your destination address when your possessions arrive, so make sure you get an accurate time estimate from your movers that you can plan around.
In the event that you aren’t prepared to receive your possessions at your new home, the movers might be forced to leave them at a storage facility, which will cost you more time and money.
Consider Your Car
If you’re looking to save money, one easy way is to drive your car to your new city, rather than having it shipped. But you should estimate how long it will take you to drive from one city to another before you decide to drive. For example, it takes a long time to drive from Halifax to Chilliwack, time you might not have. If that is the case, look into shipping your car instead.
Another alternative is to sell your car in your current city and buy a new one after arriving at your destination. If you go this route, make sure to plan ahead so you don’t find yourself in a new city with no way to get around.
Investigate Tax Breaks
Although it comes as a surprise to many people in Canada, you could be eligible for a tax break on your long-distance move. Depending on your situation, relocation services in Canada could be tax deductible. To learn more, have a look at these guidelines from the Government of Canada.
Purchase Moving Insurance
Although long-distance moving companies often provide insurance, their coverage could be quite limited in scope. Ask your moving company what their coverage includes to find out if it is sufficient. If you have a lot of valuable possessions, like collectible items or artwork, you might want to look into more comprehensive insurance options.
Beware of Brokers
Some people turn to brokers to help them find appropriate moving services, however, this approach could actually lead to more problems than it solves. A broker might be able to help you find the cheapest long distance moving companies in Canada, but this is a case where the old adage of “buyer beware” applies.
When you go through a middleman, you don’t get the chance to properly vet the services of the company they propose. Also, brokers charge fees and commission, which will ultimately inflate the cost of your move. It is worth investing the time and effort needed to find the best long distance moving services for your situation.
On the Move!
Finding the right long distance relocation services within Canada could save you a lot of time, hassle and aggravation by making your long distance move as stress free as possible. Although there are a lot of things to consider before moving, a little research and preparation will let you find the right moving company and help you get out ahead of any potential issues.
Moving is an exciting yet daunting event. Go with a moving company you can trust so you don’t let the moving-related stress get in the way of the opportunities that await!
