Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Movers in Canada
Yes, there are 10 big mistakes that can turn your move into a nightmare. These costly errors happen when people rush to hire movers without doing their homework. The good news? You can avoid every single one by knowing what to watch for.
This guide will show you the most common mistakes Canadians make when hiring movers.
Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Movers in Canada
Why One Quote Is Never Enough
Getting just one estimate is like buying the first car you see. You have no idea if you're getting a good deal or being ripped off. Moving services are radically different in terms of rates, quality, and reliability, so comparing options is essential.
How to Get Proper Estimates
Smart Canadians get at least three written estimates before choosing. Here's how to do it right:
- Request detailed, written quotes (never accept phone estimates)
- Ask each company to visit your home in person
- Make sure all quotes include the same services
- Get everything in writing before signing
A moving company must provide a written estimate, either printed or emailed. This protects you from surprise costs later.
What Each Estimate Should Include
Every proper estimate needs these details:
- Total cost breakdown
- Number of movers and hours needed
- Truck size and equipment
- Insurance coverage options
- Any extra fees or charges
Choosing Based on Price Alone
The Danger of Super Low Quotes
That amazing low price might seem like a steal, but it's often the first sign of trouble. Scam companies quote a low price, get a deposit, get all the home items on the truck, then hold everything ransom while demanding thousands more.
What Cheap Often Means
When movers offer prices way below others, they might:
- Use untrained workers
- Have poor equipment that breaks
- Add hidden fees on moving day
- Lack proper insurance
- Hold your items hostage for more money
Finding the Right Balance
Look for fair pricing that includes quality service. The middle price range often gives you the best value. Remember, you're trusting these people with everything you own.
Skipping the Research Phase
Why Background Checks Matter
One of the biggest mistakes people make is rushing into the first moving company they come across. Taking time to research can save you thousands of dollars and major headaches.
Essential Research Steps
Before hiring any mover, check these things:
Online Reviews and Ratings
- Read reviews on Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau
- Look for detailed stories, not just star ratings
- Watch for patterns in complaints
- Moving is the No. 1 fake review of all fake reviews, so be careful
Company Background
- Verify they have a real business address
- Check how long they've been in business
- Look up their registration with provincial authorities
- Ask friends and family for recommendations
Red Flag Warning Signs
- No physical address listed
- Generic company names like "Movers Inc."
- Pressure to sign immediately
- No online presence or reviews
Hiring Unlicensed or Uninsured Movers
Understanding Canadian Moving Regulations
Here's something many Canadians don't know: Movers are not licenced in Canada, which means, by and large, the moving industry does not have a lot of rules and regulations to abide by. This makes research even more important.
What to Verify Instead
Since there's no licensing system, check these things:
Insurance Requirements
- Ask for proof of liability insurance
- Canadian Association of Movers requires a cargo limit minimum of $250,000 for members
- Verify coverage includes your belongings
- Get insurance details in writing
Professional Memberships
- Look for Canadian Association of Movers membership
- Check Better Business Bureau ratings
- Ask about professional certifications
For Interprovincial Moves
Interprovincial moving companies must be licensed and insured to operate legally when crossing provincial borders. Always verify these credentials for long-distance moves.
Accepting Verbal Estimates Only
Why Written Estimates Are Required by Law
A moving company must provide a written estimate, either printed or emailed. Verbal quotes leave you open to surprise charges and disputes.
The Hostage Situation Problem
Here's a scary reality: some movers load your stuff, then demand extra money to deliver it. A mover cannot hold your items or furnishings to pressure you into renegotiating the terms of your contract.
What Your Written Contract Must Include
Every legitimate contract needs:
- Exact pickup and delivery dates
- Total cost breakdown
- Insurance coverage details
- What happens if things go wrong
- Your rights as a customer
Your Legal Rights
In most provinces, movers can generally only charge up to an additional 10% of the initially agreed price for unexpected costs.
Booking Too Late
Why Timing Matters
Many people assume that booking a moving company can be done last minute, only to find that reputable movers are fully booked, especially during peak moving seasons.
Peak Moving Times to Avoid
The busiest (and most expensive) times are:
- Summer months (June through August)
- End and beginning of months
- Weekends
- Holiday periods
How Far Ahead to Book
Smart planning means booking at least:
- 4-6 weeks ahead for summer moves
- 2-3 weeks for off-season moves
- 8 weeks for long-distance moves
- Extra time if you need packing services
Not Understanding Insurance Coverage
Basic Coverage Isn't Enough
All moving companies are required to provide basic liability coverage free of charge. This coverage insures your items for $0.30 per pound for intrastate moves and $0.60 per pound for interstate moves.
That means if your $2,000 TV gets broken, you might only get $60 back.
Better Protection Options
Ask about these coverage types:
- Full replacement value protection
- Extra coverage for high-value items
- Third-party insurance options
- What's not covered (like items you pack yourself)
Questions to Ask About Coverage
- What exactly is covered?
- How do I file a claim?
- What's the claims process timeline?
- Are there items that aren't covered?
Failing to Communicate Special Needs
Information That Affects Your Quote
To ensure that the costs are accurate, you'll need to make sure that they are informed of any problems. This could include access problems, parking restrictions, road access and delivery time restrictions as well as elevators and stairs.
Important Details to Share
Tell your movers about:
Access Challenges
- Narrow doorways or hallways
- Stairs (and how many flights)
- Elevator restrictions
- Parking limitations
Special Items
- Pianos or heavy furniture
- Fragile artwork or antiques
- Electronics that need special care
- Items that need climate control
Timing Restrictions
- Building access hours
- Noise restrictions
- Weather considerations
Why This Matters
Surprises on moving day often lead to extra charges. Being upfront helps avoid these costs and ensures your movers come prepared.
Not Reading the Fine Print
Contract Terms That Matter
You have rights under Ontario's Consumer Protection Act and similar laws in other provinces. But you need to understand what you're signing.
Key Contract Sections to Review
Cancellation Policy
- How much notice is required?
- Are there cancellation fees?
- What if the weather is bad?
Payment Terms
- When is payment due?
- What payment methods are accepted?
- Are there fees for different payment types?
Liability Limits
- What damage coverage is included?
- How long do you have to file claims?
- What's excluded from coverage?
Questions to Ask Before Signing
- Can I cancel without penalty?
- What happens if you're late?
- Who's responsible for damage?
- Are there any extra fees not listed?
Ignoring Red Flags and Warning Signs
Common Scammer Tactics
Scammers can operate as more than a dozen different companies at the same time. Here are warning signs to watch for:
Major Red Flags
Pricing Red Flags
- Estimates much lower than others
- Demands for large upfront deposits
- Cash-only payment requirements
- No written estimates provided
Business Red Flags
- No physical business address
- Generic company names
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Poor or fake online reviews
Communication Red Flags
- Won't answer detailed questions
- Avoids putting things in writing
- Changes company name frequently
- Can't provide insurance proof
Trust Your Gut
Trust your instincts. If something feels off during your interactions with a moving company, it's better to err on the side of caution and look for another provider.
Not Having a Backup Plan
Why Plans Change
Even good movers sometimes face problems:
- Truck breakdowns
- Weather delays
- Staff shortages
- Unexpected complications
Creating Your Backup Plan
Smart preparation includes:
Alternative Movers
- Keep contact info for 2-3 backup companies
- Know their availability for your dates
- Have quotes ready as backups
Temporary Solutions
- Know about storage solutions in your area
- Have essentials packed separately
- Plan for potential hotel stays
Important Contacts
- Keep your mover's emergency contact
- Know who to call for problems
- Have your insurance agent's info ready
What to Do If Things Go Wrong
If your mover doesn't show up or causes problems:
- Document everything with photos
- Keep all receipts and contracts
- Contact the company immediately
- File complaints with proper authorities
- Consider legal action if needed
How to Find Trustworthy Movers
Best Places to Start Your Search
Professional Organizations
- Canadian Association of Movers member directory
- Better Business Bureau listings
- Provincial consumer protection offices
Local Recommendations
- Ask friends and family
- Check with real estate agents
- Contact local moving companies in your area
Questions That Reveal Quality
During Your Initial Call
- How long have you been in business?
- Are you insured and bonded?
- Can you provide recent references?
- Will you do an in-home estimate?
Red Flag Responses
- "We're new but very experienced"
- "Insurance isn't necessary for local moves"
- "We can give you a price over the phone"
- "You need to decide today"
Verification Steps
Before hiring anyone:
- Check References: Call recent customers
- Verify Insurance: Get proof in writing
- Visit Their Office: Make sure they have a real location
- Read Everything: Don't sign without understanding terms
- Compare Options: Never choose the first quote
Final Thoughts
Moving doesn't have to be scary if you know what mistakes to avoid. The biggest error is rushing the process and not doing your homework. Take time to research, get multiple quotes, and verify credentials.
Remember, just about anyone who owns a moving truck and employs a few people can claim that they are a legitimate moving company. Your job is to separate the professionals from the scammers.
Start your search early, ask lots of questions, and trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is. Good movers want happy customers and won't pressure you or hide important information.
Looking for reliable movers in Edmonton and surrounding areas? Last Stop Moving offers transparent pricing, professional service, and the peace of mind you deserve. Get your free estimate today and see why we're the last stop you'll need to make.
