How Much Do Local Moves Cost?

The cost to move locally can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as the size of the home being moved and the distance being covered. In this article, we will look at a few different scenarios to give you a rough idea of what your local move might cost, and provide a few tips that should help save you some money on your upcoming move! Keep in mind that the price guide below is very general and each move is unique. We encourage you to reach out directly to receive an estimate that fits your move. But first, what is a local move anyway?

What Is A Local Move?

Local moves typically take place over distances that do not exceed a 100km radius. Usually they’re in town or between two neighbouring communities.

How Are Local Moves Billed?

Local moves are priced based on time using an hourly rate that varies according to the number of movers assigned to the move.

There is often a minimum chargeable time, e.g. three hours, and billable time usually includes the time it takes for the movers to travel to the origin location and return from the destination location, as well as the time of the actual move (preparing, loading, transporting, delivering/unloading, setting up).

How Much Do Local Moves Cost?

The following guide gives a ballpark indication of the average starting costs for certain types of local moves. Again, a reminder that these are very general estimates and each move is unique. The amount (and size) of items to be moved, the type of residence they’re being moved out of/into, the distance between locations, the conditions of access (e.g. elevator or stairs, long walk from road to house, narrow hallways/doorways, multiple floors, etc.) are all factors that will impact the cost of a local move. Throughout this brief guide we’ve included a few tips to help prepare for your local move and keep costs down.

• Small House - A 2-3 bedroom semi detached house would have an average* starting cost of $2500. Pro tip: Check out our blog post “Eight Clever Ways to Save on Your Move”.

• Large House - The average* starting cost to move a 3-4 bedroom house is typically $3500. Pro tip: Being flexible on the date of your move (we know this isn’t always possible) can save you money, low volume dates may come with a discount.

• Small Apartment - A 1-2 bedroom apartment with an elevator would have an average* starting cost of $2000. Important: Keep in mind elevator/stairs and parking factors can add time to apartment moves.

• Large Apartment - A 2-3 bedroom apartment with an elevator would have an average* starting cost of $3500 to move. Important: If your building has an elevator, be sure to reserve it in advance for moving day.

Things to Consider

• Donate or sell unwanted items, don't move it if you don't want it! 

• Consider using clean, used boxes

• Avoid baskets and bags

• Consolidate belongings into one room

• Label boxes

• Move during the off season

How To Save Money On Your Local Move

Being prepared for your local move can ensure the money you spend on your move achieves the best, most efficient result. Making your items as accessible as possible at origin will speed up the process of removing them to the moving truck. Leave a clear space around furniture so that the movers have room to pad and wrap it for transfer to the truck. LABEL all your items with the rooms you want them placed in at destination. Only move the things you want - sorting and downsizing your belongings prior to a move means a smaller move and a smaller bill. If you’re packing yourself, be sure to pack up everything that needs to go in a box and use cartons that are sturdy and able to be closed.

Not sure where your move fits into the pricing picture? Not to worry! Our team is here to help and will provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation estimate that is tailored to your move, your home, your belongings, and the services you want so you will have an accurate idea of the cost before you make a decision.

Contact us today using our handy webform or just give us a call! 800-267-3170

*This guide is non-binding and does not take into account factors such as stairs, long-carries, shuttles, surcharges, and other add-ons; these add to the time it takes to complete a local move and may increase the cost. Pricing is based on “typical” contents of the respective sizes of dwellings.  A visual survey is required to verify the actual inventory and scope of service, reflect your unique situation, and generate a written estimate of cost.