How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Ontario
Make an informed choice by taking the following factors into consideration when deciding on a mover in Ontario.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, Ontario moving companies charge $70 per hour on average. The average cost overall is $4,291 for two-bedroom homes. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include any additional tasks you need done, move distance, the season, and your home size.
You should obtain quotes from three or more reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that provide a clear breakdown of the total cost, including the flat fee or hourly rate. Keep your mover's estimate handy until the moving process is done to ensure fair pricing practices.
Read Customer Reviews
Solid customer feedback is necessary for all moving companies. Read customer reviews on sites such as the Better Business Bureau, Google Reviews, Trustpilot, Yelp, and social media to identify movers that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Ontario must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are making a short-haul move that's purely within California, choose a company that carries a California Bureau of Household Goods and Services license. You can check a company's state license using the Transportation Carriers Lookup tool.
The requirements are different if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a moving company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Ask if the mover you chose can deliver the services that meet your expectations as you receive quotes. Compile a list of any services you might need and take a comprehensive inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Tell the moving company if you have any specific needs to assess if the company is a good fit.
Types of Moving Services
For basic moves, full-service movers often include the following services in the standard price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
If you require additional services from your moving company, mention these during the quote process. Services that result in higher pricing include the following:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Ontario, CA
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving in Ontario.
Schedule an Early Move
Ontario traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously hectic. Navigating gridlock with a moving truck is even more challenging than with a personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic typically leads to higher costs if they charge by the hour. We suggest arranging before morning rush hour, which ensures the movers avoid the traffic and wrap up the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
The peak moving season—between May and September—coincides with Ontario's hottest time of year. This can impact your move if you start your search too late and can't find an available moving company. Plan ahead and book your preferred mover at least eight weeks in advance. You should also be prepared for the potential difficulties the summer weather may pose to your movers during a summer move.
Pack in Advance
You should begin packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes every day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have a few spare boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t count on it. Most moving companies treat same-day packing requests similarly. Movers will not move loose items that haven’t been packed by the time your move is scheduled to start in many cases.
How Much do Movers Cost in Ontario, CA
Movers in Ontario cost $2,658 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,407 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
---|---|---|---|
Less than 250 miles | $2,658 | $3,210 | $7,407 |
250-999 miles | $3,272 | $3,847 | $10,859 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,313 | $4,404 | $11,327 |
2,500+ miles | $3,246 | $5,475 | $13,478 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Ontario
What is the average cost of living in Ontario?
What is the average commute time in Ontario?
How much would it cost to complete a move in Ontario for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom house?
When should I begin contacting moving companies?
What items should I move myself?
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