Moving in Toronto can get expensive quickly. Between hiring movers, buying supplies, and handling all the little things that pop up along the way, costs can add up before you know it. But saving money on your move doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality or doing everything yourself.
At Moving Papa, we've worked with all kinds of budgets and moving situations. The good news is that there are smart, practical ways to keep costs down without risking damage to your belongings or burning yourself out. Here's how to save money on your Toronto move, the right way.
1. Declutter Before You Pack
The fewer items you have, the less time it takes to pack and move, and the less you'll pay in labor and transportation costs. Take a few hours to go through your home and decide what you really want to bring to your new place.
Start with clothes, books, furniture, and duplicate items you haven't used in a while. Donate what's in good condition, sell what you can, and toss what's broken or beyond repair. Moving is a great opportunity to reset and let go of things you no longer need. Less stuff means fewer boxes, smaller trucks, and lower costs.
2. Get Multiple Quotes (But Read the Fine Print)
It's smart to get quotes from more than one moving company. Just make sure you're comparing apples to apples. Some movers offer low base rates but tack on extra charges for things like stairs, fuel, or heavy items. Others may charge for moving blankets or supplies you thought were included.
At Moving Papa, we offer clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. We believe transparency is key when it comes to helping customers stay on budget. Make sure to ask any company you're considering to explain their quote in detail so you know exactly what you're paying for.
3. Move During Off-Peak Times
In Toronto, moving companies are busiest at the end of the month, on weekends, and during the summer. If you can be flexible with your moving date, consider booking mid-month or on a weekday. Many companies offer lower rates during these less busy times.
Even if your exact date isn't flexible, try scheduling your move early in the morning. The sooner your move starts, the less likely you'll hit afternoon traffic, elevator delays, or extra hourly charges due to scheduling backups.
4. Pack Yourself (But Do It Right)
Professional packing services are great if you're short on time, but if you're looking to save money, packing your belongings yourself is a smart move. That said, how you pack makes a big difference.
Use sturdy boxes, wrap fragile items carefully, and label everything clearly. Group items by room and make sure each box is manageable in weight. A well-packed home makes it easier for movers to load and unload efficiently, which can reduce your labour costs.
5. Reserve Building Elevators in Advance
If you're moving into or out of a condo or apartment, check with building management about elevator bookings. Many Toronto buildings require advance notice and a reservation for moves. Missing this step could cause delays and additional charges if movers have to wait or make multiple trips.
By taking care of this early, you avoid wasting time and money. Be sure to also confirm parking arrangements and loading dock access for moving day.
6. Disassemble Furniture Ahead of Time
Another way to save on labor is to take apart furniture before the movers arrive. Beds, dining tables, desks, and shelving units are all easier and faster to move when they're disassembled.
Keep all screws and hardware in labeled bags taped to the item or placed in a "hardware" box. If you're not comfortable doing this on your own, let your moving company know in advance so they can include the time and tools in your estimate. The key is preparation. You don't want to pay for your movers to stand around while trying to track down an Allen key.
7. Avoid Surprises with a Proper Estimate
One of the fastest ways a move can get expensive is when surprises pop up. Maybe there are more boxes than expected, or the couch won't fit through the door. A proper walkthrough or virtual consultation can help avoid these kinds of issues.
At Moving Papa, we encourage customers to be as detailed as possible when describing their move. Photos, video tours, or itemized lists help us plan and give you the most accurate quote possible. The more we know, the smoother your move will be.
8. Don't Forget About Tax Credits and Rebates
If you're moving for work, school, or certain other reasons, you may be eligible for tax deductions on your moving expenses. While these don't lower your upfront costs, they can reduce your tax bill later.
Keep all your receipts and speak with a tax advisor to see what might apply to you. Some expenses, like transportation, storage, and temporary housing, may be partially deductible under Canadian tax law.
9. Use What You Already Have
Before you spend money on bubble wrap and packing paper, look around your home. Towels, blankets, socks, and sweaters all make excellent padding for fragile items. Suitcases, bins, laundry baskets, and reusable bags can be used instead of boxes for clothes, books, or pantry items.
This small adjustment not only saves money on supplies, but also cuts down on waste. It's a win for your wallet and the environment.
Saving money on your Toronto move is all about being smart, prepared, and informed. You don't have to cut corners or take unnecessary risks, you just need to focus on the things that matter most. Declutter, plan ahead, pack efficiently, and choose a reliable, local company that values honesty and transparency.
At Moving Papa, we're committed to helping our customers move affordably without compromising on service or quality. Whether you're on a tight budget or just want to make sure you're spending wisely, our team is here to help you get from A to B the right way.
About the Author
Moving Papa Team - Moving Papa's team of professional movers brings years of experience helping Edmonton families and businesses with their relocation needs. We're committed to sharing our expertise to make your move as smooth as possible.
