Investing in a new home is an exciting step for you and your family, but it comes with important considerations. Alongside securing a reasonable mortgage and planning renovations, packing up all your belongings can be a daunting task. Many homeowners dread the process and often turn to professional movers and packing services to ease the burden, especially in a busy city like Toronto.
While some believe they can handle packing themselves, the reality is that most households accumulate more items than they realize, leading to stress when it’s time to move. With kitchens, closets, and storage spaces to sort through, the process can quickly become overwhelming. This is why more people in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area choose to hire movers and packers—saving time and reducing stress during a significant life transition.
Should You Hire a Professional Packers in Toronto?
Factors to Consider
Deciding whether to hire packing services for your move depends on three key factors: the volume of your belongings, the distance of your move, and the overall complexity of the relocation process.
When DIY Might Work
If you’re moving just a short distance and only need to pack up a single room, you might manage with a few boxes and do it yourself. However, the larger and further your move is, the more beneficial it becomes to seek professional packing assistance.
Benefits of Hiring Professionals
Hiring a reputable moving company in Toronto offers significant advantages. Professional packers bring expertise in proper packing techniques, the manpower to pack efficiently, and the right tools to prevent damage during transit. They can often pack two to three times faster than a homeowner, thanks to their experience and teamwork. They also come equipped with their own supplies, ensuring you won’t run out of boxes or materials midway through the packing process.
When to Consider Packing Services
If the time and effort required to gather packing supplies, organize, box, and label everything feels overwhelming, it’s wise to consider hiring a packing service.
Flexible Options Available
With the variety of options available today, you can find professionals to pack your entire home, specific items, or even just specialty items. Many moving companies in Toronto also offer unpacking services, helping you settle into your new home quickly and stress-free.
Packing and Moving Prices
For most homeowners, the decision of whether to hire packers and movers in Toronto will depend on the cost of the service.
Is the Cost of Packing Included in the Moving Price?
Most moving companies won’t include the cost of packing in the move. Some companies offer the “all-in-one” service, but usually packing services is an add-on that is optional with your moving service. Be careful of companies that offer “free” packing, because the cost is usually just factored into the price of the move. Packing costs are usually calculated based on the weight or time required to pack the dwelling. On average, additional packing services can add between $400 and $1,000 to the final cost of your move.
This, of course, depends on the above factors. It is essential that you receive an in-home estimate where you can talk with an assessor about all the things you want packed. Don’t forget to show them everything you want to be packed away, so there are no misunderstandings on the day of. Similarly, try to be present as much as you can when the workers are there so you can avoid any problems that may arise.
Packing Supply Costs
Whether you are packing yourself or using a trusted packing service, one essential need you’ll have is packing supplies. As we mentioned, most moving companies will provide the packing supplies needed, but this is often an additional cost to the service. Even if you choose to pack yourself, you can always purchase supplies from the moving company ahead of time.
See how much supplies add to the cost of hiring movers and packers:
| Best For | Supply Type | Size | Price |
| Office: Books, Files | Small 1.5 cube box | 16*13*13 | $3-6 |
| Kitchen: Glass, Plates, etc. | Small 2 cube box | 18*15*12 | $3-7 |
| Kitchen: Pots & Pans | Medium 3 cube box | 18*18*16 | $4-8 |
| Bedroom Items | Large 4 cube box | 18*18*21 | $5-8 |
| Bedroom Items/General | Extra-large 5 cube | 18*18*27 | $6-10 |
| Great for travelling the hung up contents of your closet. Shift from the box back to the closet in minutes and leave all the clothes on the hangers. | Wardrobe box (RENT)
Wardrobe box (SALE) |
21*24*45
21*24*45 |
$15-20
$25-30 |
| Mattress covers are great for getting your mattress from one home to another without any of the dirt. | Mattress Cover | One Size | $11-20 |
| Secure drawers or doors in your appliances. | Shrink Wrap | 12.6’*1,500ft | $25-50 |
| Blank paper that doesn’t leave any stains or residue. Perfect for packing fragile glass and china. | Wrapping Paper | 10 lb | $18-30 |
| Great for wrapping fragile items or lining cardboard boxes. | Bubble Wrap | 1 Meter | $.50-1 |
| Blankets can be used to cover large items to prevent damage or laid out on the floor to avoid. | Blankets (Sale) | 72*80 | $25-35 |
| Packing tape that can only be cut with scissors or a knife to make sure your boxes don’t break | Packing Tape | 1 Roll | $3-5 |
Choosing the Right Local Movers and Packers in Toronto
At first glance, there seem to be hundreds, if not thousands, of local movers and packers in Toronto. So, how do you avoid picking the wrong one? One of the biggest mistakes homeowners in Canada make is not taking the time to research their prospective moving company. Here are some must-haves to consider:
1. Good Practice Guidelines
Ensure the company meets the criteria under the Good Practice Guidelines for Canadian Movers. These guidelines serve as the closest thing to an official document in Canada that governs how packers and movers in Toronto should operate.
2. Membership in the Canadian Association of Movers
Check if the moving company belongs to the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). This association represents many top-rated moving companies. However, keep in mind that membership in the CAM is not mandatory and doesn’t necessarily reflect a company’s quality.
3. Registration with the Workers Compensation Board
Verify if the company is registered with the provincial Workers Compensation Board (WCB). This is almost standard for any trades or laborers in Canada today. Being in good standing with the WCB means the company’s employees are covered and protected while working at your home. Many unreliable moving companies will skip registering their business with the WCB.
4. Replacement Value Protection
Inquire whether the company offers Replacement Value Protection (RVP) and, if so, for how much. While RVP often adds to the cost of the move, it provides much higher reimbursement for your belongings if something goes wrong during the move. Even if you don’t opt for this protection, it’s a good sign if a company offers this option.
5. Professional Training for Employees
Ensure the company’s employees are professionally trained. It takes training and experience to maximize efficiency, which is why you’re hiring movers or packers in the first place.
Long Distance Home Packers & Movers in Toronto Area: What to Keep in Mind
When planning a long-distance move, choosing the right packers and movers is crucial to ensure a smooth transition. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Research the Company’s Reputation
Before hiring a moving company, do thorough research. Check online reviews, testimonials, and ratings from past clients. Look for companies with a solid track record in long-distance moves and ensure they have the necessary licenses and insurance.
2. Understand the Pricing Structure
Long-distance moving can vary significantly in cost. Ask for detailed quotes from multiple companies and understand what is included in the price. Look for any hidden fees, such as fuel surcharges or additional costs for packing materials.
3. Inquire About Insurance Options
Long-distance moves come with unique risks, so it’s essential to discuss insurance options. Ensure the company offers adequate coverage for your belongings during transit. Consider opting for additional insurance for high-value items to protect against potential loss or damage.
4. Check Packing and Unpacking Services
Many long-distance movers offer packing and unpacking services, which can save you time and stress. Inquire about what services are included and whether you can customize the package based on your needs.
5. Confirm Delivery Timelines
Understand the expected delivery timelines for your long-distance move. Ask the moving company for a clear schedule and confirm how they handle delays or changes. This will help you plan accordingly for your arrival at your new home.
6. Ask About Storage Solutions
If there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates, check if the moving company offers storage solutions. Having a secure place to store your belongings can alleviate stress during the transition.
7. Get Everything in Writing
Finally, make sure to get all agreements and details in writing. This includes the estimated cost, services included, delivery dates, and insurance options. Having everything documented protects you and ensures transparency throughout the moving process.
