Moving Costs in Ontario (2026): Complete Guide | Modern Solution Realt

Moving Costs in Ontario: A Complete Breakdown (2026 Guide) | Modern Solution Realty

By Modern Solution Realty – 🏡 1% Listing Commission | 💰 $5,000 Buyer Cashback🔗 https://modernsolution.ca/

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, whether you're upgrading to a larger property, downsizing, or relocating within the province. However, many buyers and sellers underestimate one major expense: the cost of moving itself.

While people often focus on down payments, legal fees, and closing costs, the true cost of moving in Ontario can add up quickly if you don’t plan ahead.

In this guide, Modern Solution Realty breaks down the average moving costs in Ontario, including professional movers, DIY options, packing supplies, and the hidden expenses many homeowners overlook. Understanding these costs will help you build a realistic budget and avoid last-minute surprises.

Understanding the Average Moving Costs in Ontario

The average moving cost in Ontario depends on several key factors:

  • Distance between your current and new home
  • Size of your home and number of belongings
  • Time of year you move
  • Whether you hire professional movers or move yourself

Because every move is different, prices can vary significantly.

Local vs. Long-Distance Moves

Moving companies generally categorize moves into local and long-distance relocations.

Local Moves

Local moves usually occur within the same city or within a 100-kilometre radius. Moving companies typically charge hourly rates for these jobs.

Average rates in Ontario:

  • $130 – $200 per hour for a team of 2–3 movers and a truck
  • A typical three-bedroom home move takes 6–8 hours

Estimated total cost:

  • $1,000 – $3,000 for most local moves

Long-Distance Moves

Long-distance relocations are priced differently. If you are moving between cities such as Toronto, Ottawa, London, or Windsor, companies typically calculate costs based on:

  • Distance travelled
  • Total weight of your belongings
  • Fuel and logistics

Average long-distance moving costs in Ontario:

  • $3,500 – $7,000+ for a family-sized home

Large households or cross-province relocations can cost even more.

Seasonal Moving Costs in Ontario

Timing can significantly impact your moving budget.

The Ontario real estate market is busiest between May and September, which means moving companies experience peak demand during these months.

Higher prices usually occur during:

  • Summer months
  • Weekends
  • End of the month
  • Holidays

If your schedule allows, moving during fall or winter, particularly mid-week, can reduce costs substantially.

Hiring Professional Movers vs. DIY Moving

One of the biggest decisions when relocating is whether to hire professional movers or manage the move yourself.

Both options have different financial implications.

Cost of Hiring Professional Movers

Professional movers offer convenience and peace of mind. Experienced crews know how to:

  • Protect fragile belongings
  • Navigate tight staircases and elevators
  • Load trucks efficiently
  • Reduce the risk of damage

Typical professional moving costs in Ontario:

  • Local move: $1,000 – $3,000
  • Long-distance move: $3,500 – $7,000+

Full-Service Moving

Some homeowners choose full-service moving companies, which handle:

  • Packing all belongings
  • Disassembling furniture
  • Loading and transporting items
  • Unpacking at the new home

This premium service can add $1,000 – $2,500 or more to the total cost.

DIY Moving Costs

Moving yourself may seem like the cheapest option, but there are still several expenses involved.

Truck rental companies often advertise low daily rates such as $39.99 per day, but additional fees increase the final cost.

Typical DIY moving expenses include:

  • Truck rental fees
  • Per-kilometre charges ($0.69 – $1.10/km)
  • Fuel costs
  • Rental insurance
  • Moving equipment (dollies, blankets, straps)

Estimated cost for a local DIY move:

$250 – $500+, depending on distance and truck size.

Packing Supplies and Preparation Costs

Regardless of how you move, packing materials are necessary to protect your belongings.

For a typical three-bedroom home, you may need:

  • 60–90 moving boxes
  • Packing tape
  • Bubble wrap
  • Packing paper
  • Mattress covers
  • Specialty boxes for TVs or wardrobes

Average cost of packing supplies in Ontario:

$200 – $450

You may be able to reduce costs by sourcing free boxes from grocery stores or online community groups, but protective materials like tape and bubble wrap are still necessary.

Hidden Moving Costs Many People Forget

Several unexpected expenses can arise during a move. Planning ahead for these costs can prevent financial stress.

Moving Insurance

Most moving companies provide basic liability coverage, often around $0.60 per pound per item.

For example:

  • A 50-pound TV would only be covered for $30

To properly protect valuable belongings, you can purchase full-value replacement coverage, which typically costs 1–2% of the total value of your items.

Storage Fees

Sometimes the closing dates for your old and new homes do not align.

If you need temporary storage, the average cost of a 10×10 climate-controlled storage unit in Ontario ranges from:

$150 – $300 per month

Some moving companies offer storage-in-transit services, but these may include additional handling and storage fees.

Condominium Elevator Fees

If you're moving in or out of a condo building, the property management may require you to book a service elevator.

Common condo moving fees include:

  • Elevator booking fees
  • Refundable damage deposits

Typical deposits range from $200 – $500.

Planning Your Move in Ontario

Moving requires both financial planning and logistical organization. Understanding the average moving costs in Ontario helps you create a realistic relocation budget and avoid last-minute stress.

A few tips to keep your move organized:

  • Request multiple quotes from reputable moving companies
  • Book movers several weeks in advance
  • Purchase packing supplies early
  • Budget 10–15% extra for unexpected expenses

At Modern Solution Realty, we help clients navigate every stage of the buying and selling process — including preparing for a smooth move into their new home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Ontario

What is the cheapest day to hire movers in Ontario?

The most affordable days are typically Tuesday or Wednesday during the middle of the month. Prices are highest on weekends, holidays, and the first or last day of the month when demand is highest.

Should you tip professional movers?

Tipping movers is not mandatory but is common when they provide excellent service.

Typical tipping guidelines:

  • $20 – $40 per mover for smaller local moves
  • 5% – 10% of the total moving cost for larger moves

How can you avoid moving scams?

To protect yourself when hiring movers:

  • Research company reviews carefully
  • Request a written estimate after a virtual or in-person walkthrough
  • Confirm the company has commercial insurance and licensing
  • Avoid companies that demand large upfront cash deposits

Modern Solution Realty is committed to helping homeowners across Ontario navigate every step of their real estate journey — from listing your property to settling comfortably into your new home.

If you're planning a move in the near future, understanding the full cost of relocation will help ensure your transition is smooth, organized, and stress-free.