Moving Costs in Toronto

Professional Moving Companies

Hiring professional movers is the most common choice for GTA homeowners. For a local move within the Greater Toronto Area, expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for a standard three-bedroom home. Costs increase with the volume of items, the distance between properties, and any complications such as stairs, narrow hallways, or limited parking access.

Most moving companies charge by the hour for local moves. Typical rates in the GTA range from $120 to $180 per hour for a crew of two movers and a truck, and $150 to $220 per hour for a crew of three. A local move for a standard home usually takes 6 to 10 hours.

For long-distance moves within Ontario, companies typically charge by weight and distance rather than by the hour. A move from Toronto to Ottawa or the Niagara region might cost $3,000 to $6,000 depending on volume.

DIY Moving Options

Renting a truck and handling the move yourself can save money, but it requires significant time and physical effort. Truck rental costs in the GTA typically range from $100 to $300 per day depending on the size of the vehicle. You will also need to factor in fuel, insurance, and any moving equipment like dollies and furniture pads.

• Cargo van (small apartment): $100 to $150 per day
• 16-foot truck (one to two bedrooms): $150 to $200 per day
• 26-foot truck (three or more bedrooms): $200 to $300 per day
• Fuel for a local move: $50 to $100
• Moving equipment rental: $30 to $75

Packing Materials

Whether you hire professional packers or do it yourself, packing materials are an additional cost. For a typical three-bedroom home, budget $150 to $400 for packing supplies:

• Moving boxes (30 to 60 boxes): $75 to $200
• Packing tape (4 to 8 rolls): $20 to $40
• Bubble wrap and packing paper: $30 to $75
• Wardrobe boxes for clothing: $15 to $25 each
• Mattress bags and furniture covers: $20 to $50

To save on packing materials, check local community groups and social media marketplaces where people often give away used boxes after their own moves. LCBO and grocery stores are also good sources for free boxes.

Storage Costs

If your closing dates do not align or you need temporary storage during a renovation, storage units in the GTA typically cost $150 to $400 per month depending on the size. A 5x10-foot unit (suitable for a one-bedroom apartment's contents) runs about $150 to $200 per month. A 10x20-foot unit (suitable for a full house) costs $300 to $400 per month.

Some moving companies offer short-term storage as part of their services, which can be convenient if you need storage for just a few days between closing dates.

Utility Transfers and Connections

Transferring or setting up utilities is a task that comes with its own costs. Budget $100 to $300 for utility connection fees and deposits at your new home:

• Hydro account transfer or setup: $0 to $50
• Gas account transfer: $0 to $25
• Water account setup (where applicable): $0 to $50
• Internet and cable installation: $50 to $150
• Security system transfer or new installation: $0 to $200

Other Moving-Related Costs

• Cleaning your old home after moving out: $200 to $500 for professional cleaning
• Cleaning your new home before moving in: $200 to $500
• Changing locks at your new home: $100 to $300
• Address change and mail forwarding: $60 to $100 through Canada Post
• Pet boarding during moving day: $30 to $75 per day
• Meals and incidentals on moving day: $50 to $100

Tips for Reducing Moving Costs

• Get at least three quotes from licensed, insured movers and compare hourly rates and included services. The Ontario government provides consumer protection guidelines for moving services
• Move mid-week or mid-month when demand is lower and rates are often cheaper
• Declutter before your move to reduce the volume of items and time needed
• Book your movers at least four to six weeks in advance, especially for summer and month-end moves
• Avoid moving on the last day of the month, which is the busiest and most expensive time
• Ask about insurance coverage and understand what is included in case of damage