Moving tips
Moving Quotes Canada: How to Compare Prices Without Stress
By TLC Moving & Storage · Published 21 October 2025
To compare moving quotes in Canada, check what each one includes: labour and trucks, packing materials, storage and coverage. Compare local and national movers on value, not just price, and on a long-distance move confirm whether mileage, tolls and overnight fees are in the quote. Always get it in writing.
Why moving quotes in Canada vary so much
Not all moving companies price their services the same way, so quotes for the same move can differ a lot. The difference usually lies in what’s included, or hidden. Quotes are usually based on:
Distance
A local Ottawa move or a long-distance move to Alberta or Toronto.
Size of your home
An apartment or a large family house.
Weight or volume
How much you’re moving.
Additional services
Packing, storage or unpacking.
Season
Summer and end-of-month moves are in higher demand.
Red flags in a moving quote
Before hiring a mover, watch for these warning signs:
Lowball estimates
An unrealistically cheap rate that grows with extra fees later.
Hidden costs
Charges such as fuel surcharges, stair fees or fees for long carries.
Unclear storage rates
If you need short-term storage, ask for its cost in the same quote.
No written contract
Always ask for a detailed, written quote to avoid surprises.
How to compare moving quotes without stress
A simple framework for comparing quotes from movers in Ottawa or anywhere in Canada:
1. Break down the services
Ask whether each quote includes packing materials, labour and trucks, storage if you need it, and insurance coverage.
2. Compare local and national movers
Get quotes from both. A mover based near you has less travel to account for.
3. Consider value, not just price
The cheapest mover isn’t always the best. Look at reliability, reviews, and whether they also offer storage.
4. Ask about long-distance costs
Moving from Ottawa to Alberta or Toronto? Confirm whether the quote includes mileage, tolls and overnight fees.
What a TLC moving quote covers
We quote local and long-distance moves, with or without packing and storage, and every estimate is free and carries no obligation. Tell us what you’re moving and where, and we’ll put the services you need in one written quote.
For a move within the city, see our residential moving services. If your dates don’t line up, ask for moving and storage in the same quote.
Questions about moving with TLC
Why do moving quotes vary so much?
Quotes are usually based on distance, the size of your home, the weight or volume of your belongings, extra services like packing, storage or unpacking, and the season: summer and end-of-month moves are in higher demand.
What hidden costs should I look for in a moving quote?
Look out for charges like fuel surcharges, stair fees or charges for long carries, and always ask for a detailed, written quote.
What should a long-distance moving quote include?
If you’re moving from Ottawa to Alberta or Toronto, confirm whether the quote includes mileage, tolls and overnight fees, as well as packing materials, labour, trucks and any storage.
Free estimate
Get your free estimate
Tell us about your move and we will come back with a free, obligation-free estimate. You can also call (613) 830-7402.