5 Best Long Distance Moving Companies in Canada
- Last updated on: March 13, 2023
Moving is one of the most stressful things you can ever do. Whether it is residential moving, long distance moving, moving cross borders, or commercial moving, the process can be a disaster if you don’t trust the right long distance moving company.
There are several factors that determine whether you can trust a long distance moving company. It should have a strong track record, it should be well accredited by organizations such as Canadian Mover’s Association and Better Business Bureau, it should provide insurance, and it should be able to handle everything from packing to unloading.
You can find dozens of recommendations over the internet. However, it is difficult to weed out the good from the bad. To help make the task easier for you, we have compiled a detailed list of the best long distance movers in Canada.
Read on for a thoroughly-researched review of the 5 best long distance moving companies in Canada.
MovingWaldo’s list of the 5 best long distance movers in Canada
Not looking for an interprovincial mover?
Find trusted local moving companies or international movers near you by visiting our experts reviews.
What is MovingWaldo?
MovingWaldo is Canada’s #1 Free Moving Concierge Service. Since 2016, we help millions of Canadians tackle moving tasks in minutes. We care to take the stress away from moving by offering free tools, tips and tricks and referral of service providers that you can trust. MovingWaldo is everything moving under the same roof!
How are moving companies selected?
Our network of movers you can trust is carefully built based on professionalism, years of experience, accreditation, awards and social proofs from customers. We care to help you through the maze of information the web provides about this unique industry. You can trust the movers listed here to guide you and your family safely into moving day!
4.3 stars based on 320+ reviews from around the web
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About
Centennial Moving specializes in long-distance move and are a perfect option for bigger moves. Over time, they have acquired the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure the smooth running of your long-distance move. For instance, they understand that time is of the essence and will ensure that your belongings are relocated on time, punctuality being an essential criterion for them. When you book a long-distance move with Centennial Moving, you’ll also get state-of-the-art trucks, storage solutions, organizing supplies, and even more, making them an option of choice.
Services offered in Canada
- Long distance
- Interprovincial moves
- Cross Country
- Storage services
- Car shipping
- Packing and unpacking
- Assembly and disassembly
- Storage services
Available on demand
BBB Bureau Rating
A+ (Not Accredited)
In Business Since
1995
Area Covered
Centennial Moving serves any long distance moves in Canada.
Pros
- High-end inventory
- Climate-controlled storage warehouse
- Blankets and shrink wrap are used to protect your belongings
- Usage of moving blankets and rubber floor mat
- Computerized communication system to locate your truck.
Cons
- They only take moves of 500km and higher.
- The minimum shipping weight is 1000 lbs.
Why Should I choose Centennial Movers?
Being specialized in move of 500 Km or bigger, Centennial Moving is an option to consider. They have efficient systems and processes that allow them to track your move easily and therefore give you peace of mind. In addition to taking care of your move, they offer several additional services to ensure that your move goes according to your plans, such as packing and unpacking, assembly and disassembly, and even storage services. Thus, Centennial Moving can handle your long-distance move efficiently so you can enjoy your new home.
Specialized in full service moves, oversized item moves and use eco-friendly supplies
4.2 stars based on 57 reviews from around the web
About
Viktoria Professional Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company based in Toronto. With over 20 years of experience in the moving industry, this company gained the trust of their customers with their professional team. Whether you are looking to move into a new home or move your office, Viktoria is a one-stop solution for all your packing, moving and storage needs. You can count on their dedicated team for any residential or commercial move whether you are moving a few streets away or across the border! Viktoria handles long distance moves within North America, whether you are moving from or to Ontario.
Services offered in Canada
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving (office, retail or warehouse)
- Long distance moving
- Short & long term storage services
- Packing/unpacking services
- Packing supplies
- Disassembly/reassembly services
In GTA starts at 139/h for 2 movers and truck
BBB Bureau Rating
A+ (Accredited since 2011)
In Business Since
2010
Area Covered
• Long distance moves to anywhere in Ontario, outside of Ontario or outside of the country (from Ontario)
• Local moves in Toronto, Greater Toronto Area and surrounding areas • Cross border moves
• International moves
Pros
- Family owned and operated
- Eco-friendly moving supplies
- Storage solutions
- Service for oversized items
- Goods are scaled at a certified scaling station
- Long distance moves are not hourly based
- Last minute moves (as early as 12 hours before)
Cons
- 4 hour minimum charge + 1 hour for travel time
Why Should I choose Viktoria Professional Movers?
Viktoria Professional Movers is the ideal moving company if you are looking for reliable long distance movers in to and from Ontario. They even do long distance moves across the border, so you can count on them no matter where you are planning to move within North America. Conscious about the environment, Viktoria also provides eco-friendly moving supplies. Moving to another province or across the border can be stressful, but Viktoria will handle all your items with care, even your oversized items. Their long distance moves are not hourly based, instead they focus primarily on the distance, weight and cubic feet. Therefore, your goods will be scaled at a certified scaling station to ensure you are only paying for the actual weight of your items. On top of it all they also provide last minute moves as early as 12 hours before your move. If you are planning a long distance move, Viktoria is the perfect company for a stress free moving experience.
4.4 stars based on 430 reviews from around the web
About
Number 1 Movers Van Lines isn’t just a name, it’s a state of mind! Established in 1998, Number 1 Movers Van Lines provide full service moves with safety, care, and love. Professionalism and friendliness, two words that describe them perfectly. They truly understand what your items mean to you and will haul them to your long distance destination with utmost attention. The professional and skilled movers at Number 1 Movers Van Lines go above and beyond to ensure all your long distance moving needs are met.
Services offered in Canada
- Household moving
- Furniture assembly/disassembly
- Commercial moving
- Long distance moving
- Piano moving services
- Freight & cargo delivery
- Specialized services
- Storage
- Moving supplies
- Packing and unpacking
Available on demand
BBB Bureau Rating
N/A
In Business Since
1998
Area Covered
Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba (Winnipeg), Saskatchewan (Regina), Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia (Halifax), and Alberta.
Pros
- Movers covered by WSIB
- Free quotes online and by phone
- Competitive and transparent pricing
- Free wardrobe boxes
Cons
- No online moving supply shop
- No international moves
Why Should I choose Number 1 Movers Van Lines?
Recognized as an affordable and meticulous moving company, Number 1 Movers Van Lines is recommended by MovingWaldo as they promise to deliver the long distance move you deserve. They have many client reviews indicating transparent pricing, meaning that your long distance move will likely not cost more than your quote. They are dedicated to moving almost any item no matter the size, quickly, yet with care and attention. Number 1 Movers Van Lines are also award winners, winning the HomeStars Best of award twice!
4.5 stars based on 13,760 reviews from around the web
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About
Unlike the other companies listed here, PODS offers moving and storage container services. A PODS portable container is delivered to you, loaded on your schedule, and either kept in your driveway for 24/7 access, stored at one of their secure indoor facilities, or moved to your new home. In fact, PODS is an industry pioneer and leader since 1998, they provide residential and commercial moving and storage services – with contactless delivery and pick-up – across a vast service network. The Canadian-owned business, with its unparalleled flexibility, convenience, and control, makes for a great choice as your local or long-distance move. Click on the link to the Website to get 10% on your move!
Services offered in Canada
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving & Storage
- PODS Container Moving
- Contents Protection
- Storage Services
- Storage On-Site
- Store at their facilities
- Moving Supplies
- Packing and Loading Assistance
Available on demand - Save 10% off retail rates through MovingWaldo!
Container Dimensions | Construction Type | Capacity (rooms) | Weight Limit (lbs.) | Interior Space (cu. ft.) | Clearance Area Required |
16′ x 8′ x 8′ | Metal | 3 or 4 | 4,200 | 835 | 40′ x 12′ x 15′ |
*12′ x 8′ x 8′ | Metal | 2 or 3 | 4,700 | 689 | 40′ x 12′ x 15′ |
7′ x 7′ x 8′ | Metal | 1 | 5,200 | 385 | 40′ x 12′ x 15′ |
* The 12’ x 8’ x 8’ container is only available for local moving and storage, but the other two container sizes are available for long-distance moves.
BBB Bureau Rating
Not accredited
In Business Since
1998
Area Covered
Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, Winnipeg, Vancouver, Halifax, Edmonton, Calgary and more cities in Canada and the United States
Pros
- Affordable option (10% discount if booked through MovingWaldo)
- Contactless delivery and pick-up
- They do the driving to the new address
- You control the schedule – so you can take your time loading
- 10X fewer damage claims compared to traditional movers*
- Flexible, easy storage options – in your driveway or in their secure indoor facilities
- Packing and loading help available, but not included
*According to AMSA (American Moving & Storage Association)
Cons
- Not all apartments or condos permit portable containers
- 12’ x 8’ x 8’ container only available for local moving and storage
Why Should I choose PODS?
Whether you are moving across town, across the country – or if you need storage – in one of their secure indoor facilities, PODS has offered a flexible, convenient way for Canadians to move and store their belongings for more than two decades.
Mix and match among a range of portable moving and storage containers to fit your needs, and unlike traditional moving companies, PODS does not require a deposit, nor are you required to pay for your entire move upfront. They offer pay-as-you-go pricing, since you rent your PODS container(s) by the month, putting you in control of your schedule, so you can take your time. Not to mention, PODS is a contactless service, so you do not need to greet their driver for delivery or pick-up.
PODS can also help make packing and loading/unloading easier by referring you to highly rated hourly labor in your area. These pros know their containers inside and out to help maximize your space, and they will do as much as you need them to do.
PODS also offers a discount for people who book through MovingWaldo, which may be a great cost-saving option for some.
3.8 stars based on 114 reviews from around the web
About
United Van Lines has been in the moving industry since 1953, demonstrating that they know how to handle your move and take care of your belongings. This long-distance mover is at the service of every Canadians since they’re available in all the provinces around Canada. They also offer add-on moving packages to help you ease the headache that comes with moving especially, long distance moving. As a proud member of the Canadian Association of Movers and award winner of Canada’s best managed companies, United Van Lines can completely be trusted to transport your possessions across the country and even to other countries around the world.
Services offered in Canada
- Packing and Unpacking
- Loading and Unloading
- Moving protection
- Auto Transport
- Move Management
Available on demand
BBB Bureau Rating
A+ (accredited since 2009)
In Business Since
1953
Area Covered
Moves within Canada and the U.S. along with international moves.
Pros
- Flexible delivery options
- Moves curated uniquely based on your needs
- DIY options available
- Offers local and long-distance moving services as well
Cons
- Do not remove items secured to the walls
Why should I choose United Van Lines?
United Van Lines is a veteran in the moving industry and has been helping Canadians with their cross country and long distance move with safety and reasonable prices. Their multiple options for moving are made to best fit your needs and can always be more custom to satisfy your expectations. United Van Lines is definitely a name to have in mind when you think about long distance moving.
Conclusion - Best Moving Companies
I hope this article has helped you narrow down your choice of long distance moving companies in Canada. As you can see, these companies offer a wide range of services. Some offer free packing whereas some charge extra for packing services. Some offer moving cross borders whereas some only offer moving across Canada. In addition, you should keep in mind that you might need a car shipping company is you are moving long distance. Finally, it’s up to you to determine which services are essential for your purposes and approach the moving company that can meet your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cross Provincial Moving
When is the cheapest time to move?
In general, it is cheaper to move in the middle of the week, in the middle of the month, and during the winter.
Moving prices change a lot throughout the year. Like Uber, the more demand there is, the higher the prices are. The general rules to get a discounted rate are:
- It is usually cheaper to move during the week than during the weekend. For instance, some companies will have a different hourly rate on Wednesday than on Saturday. This is likely due to the fact that people avoid taking time off from work to move, hence, there is more demand on weekends.
- Moving in the middle of the month is likely to be cheaper than moving on the last or first day of the month. This is due to the fact that most leases are renewed on the first day of the month, hence, there is more demand on this day.
- Moving during the winter is usually cheaper. December, January or February are most likely less expensive months. April to September is often more expensive since it coincides with the end and the beginning of the school year.
How many movers will I need?
Usually, a moving company will provide 2 or 3 movers. The number will depend on the company politics as well as the size of the move.
For instance, if you are moving from a one or two-bedroom apartment without large appliances, two movers will likely do it. On the contrary, if you are moving a house, 3 movers will be a better option.
If the moving company charges by the hour, the total hourly rate will be higher if there are 3 movers. This said, your move could also take less time, and the movers are less likely to accidentally scratch some furniture out of tiredness.
How many hours should I plan for my move?
For a same city move, the minimum will be 3 to 4 hours, but it is likely to be more than this. A two-bedroom apartment can take 4 to 6 hours, and a complete home could go up to 10 hours. Keep in mind that many things can influence the number of hours a move will take:
- The number of movers, usually 2 or 3.
- The number of boxes and furniture. Boxes are fast to move around, but appliances, sofas and specialty items can take a while. If a piece of furniture does not fit the stairs, for instance, you can count up to an hour to take it out through the balcony.
- On what level is your home located? Moving from the tenth floor will take more time.
- How long will it take for the movers to drive from their office, to your current home, then to your new home, and finally go back to the office? Most movers charge from door to door.
Try to evaluate how many trips will the movers need to load and unload everything, then estimate the time for each run. Finally, add the travel time and you should have a first approximation.
How much does it cost to hire a moving company?
Moving services rates are usually around 90$ to 120$ per hour for two men. For instance, at $90 per hour, a 6 hours – 2 men move would cost 540$. You would then need to add gas, insurance, and tip.
Here is some sample data. Please make sure to get a proper quote to budget your move, as every move is different!
- Two-bedroom townhouse between $375 and $450
- Three-bedroom house around $800 and $900
- Four-bedroom home around $3,000.
Read our full article on the cost of moving.
What should I consider when choosing a moving company?
Selecting a mover is always a tricky thing to do. Since you do not move every year, you usually never had experience with the mover we end up selecting. There are rarely very poor decision, but here are a few things to consider that will help you make an appropriate choice:
Make sure the moving company offers insurance for your belongings.
Look for the BBB Rating. A BBB rating is a measure of customer satisfaction. The highest, the better. Note that not all companies use this rating.
Look for the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) accreditation. Again, not all companies participate, but it can be a good source of credibility.
How long have they been in business? It is often a great thing when a company is in business for 50 years. We are not saying that young companies are not good, but harder to evaluate.
Where are they located? The closest to you and your new home, the cheaper it will be.
Do they hire full-time employees, or work with contractors? Full-time employees will often give you a guarantee that the reviews are relevant to the team.
Look for reviews from friends and family or turn to online reviews. Take the time to read the reviews and understand it.
Make sure you get more than one moving company quote!
How much should I tip movers?
First, let’s settle it. Yes, you should tip movers, especially if they did a great job and were respectful of you and your furniture. Moving is not an easy job!
- For an average or small size move of 3 to 4 hours, a reasonable tip would be $20 per mover.
- For a larger move, or if it is a very hot day for instance, do not hesitate to go up to $40 per mover.
- In addition to tips, movers are likely to appreciate non-alcoholic beverages, such as water or Gatorade, or small snacks during the course of the move.
- It is usually recommended to tip at the end when paying the final bill.
- Final note: Reviews. The moving industry is not easy, and online reviews are very important for these companies and also for other families that will be seeking their services later on. Share your experience!
For more information, read our full post here on how much to tip movers.
Should I hire professional movers or rent a moving truck?
There are a number of things to consider before deciding to hire professional movers or moving by yourself, but the quick answer is: hiring movers is definitely a simpler choice, but will often be more expensive. Here are the things to consider:
- What are you moving? Do you only have a few boxes to move, or are you moving a full-size home with a piano and pool table? Try imagining yourself moving the largest piece of furniture, could you do it?
- To the first point, how is your physical health? Moving is hard on the body, and you surely do not want to break your back over the cost of moving. Hire movers if you think the effort could be too much.
- Are you on a tight schedule, or can you move furniture over a week or a month? The more time you have, the easier it is to do it yourself.
- Do you have specialty items, such as a pool table, a hot tub or a piano? These are expensive and need technical skills to be moved without properly. Make sure to get professional movers.
What are 5 tips for a perfect long distance move in Canada?
- Plan your move. The more planning, the better.
- Take measurement at your current and new address. Make sure everything fits.
- Create a Google Drive with all reservations, quotes, lists, insurance, and documents related to your move.
- Label your boxes!
- Always double confirm every reservation.
For MovingWaldo’s ultimate printable moving checklist, click here!
Special Mention!
Moving is often synonymous of stress, long administrative tasks and a significant waste of time and money. MovingWaldo helps you solve all these problems in just a few clicks! After some shameless self-promotion, we invite you to discover our free moving tools available to all.
- Discover our pick of the 5 best movers in Toronto
- Update accounts
- Connect Internet, TV and Phone.
- Secure home and auto insurance
- Find resources, checklists and more.
We bring together more than 700 organizations across Canada with a single and simplified form.
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