Moving is never easy, especially in a busy city like North York. Whether you’re relocating within the area or moving from another part of Toronto, it’s crucial to know the costs involved. Understanding how much movers cost in North York will help you budget effectively and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
In this blog, we will break down the average moving cost in North York, examine factors that influence these prices, and provide tips to help you save money. We’ll also look at the costs for different types of moves—residential, commercial, long-distance, and specialty items. Plus, we’ll give you an idea of what to expect from packing, insurance, and other services.
Average Moving Costs in North York
On average, hiring two professional movers in North York for a local move costs between $109 to $199 per hour, depending on the company and the type of move. Some companies, like One Day Movers, charge $50-60 per hour per mover, offering a more budget-friendly option. For a studio apartment, expect to pay around $500 to $800, while moving a 2-bedroom home can range from $1,000 to $1,800.
The more movers you hire and the larger your home, the higher the price. A move involving a 4-bedroom house will generally cost $2,500 or more, especially if stairs or difficult access points are involved. Long-distance moves, however, often have different pricing structures, which we’ll cover later.
How Long Does It Take to Move?
One of the most significant factors affecting the moving cost in North York is the time it takes to complete the move. For example, moving out of a single-story home might take less time than an apartment with multiple floors and no elevator access. On average, you can expect:
- Studio or 1-bedroom: 2 movers, 3-5 hours, costing $500-$800
- 2-3 bedrooms: 3 movers, 5-7 hours, costing $1,000-$1,800
- 4-5 bedrooms: 4 movers, 8-10 hours, costing $2,500 or more
Additional factors, such as packing services or disassembling furniture, will increase the total moving time. Therefore, choosing a Toronto moving company that offers efficient services can significantly reduce costs.
Flat Rate vs. Hourly Rate: Which Is Better?
When moving in North York, many moving companies offer two primary pricing models: flat rate and hourly rate. Choosing between the two depends on various factors, including the size of your move, the layout of your building, and how flexible you need the service to be.
Flat Rate
A flat rate is a fixed cost agreed upon before the move begins. This estimate is based on the number of items being moved, the distance between locations, and the overall complexity of the move. Flat-rate pricing is beneficial when you have a clear understanding of the scope of your move. However, this rate can be subject to change if unforeseen factors arise, such as an elevator being unavailable or the walking distance to the moving truck increasing.
In apartment buildings, the flat rate can also be affected by factors like elevator size, how far the movers need to walk with items, and any additional complexities in both the pickup and destination locations. For example, if your building has narrow hallways or restricted access, this could make the move more challenging and potentially increase the price.
One important consideration with flat-rate pricing is that it may change if your inventory differs from the initial agreement. This means if you add more items or if unexpected circumstances arise, the moving company may adjust the price accordingly. For those who have a strict inventory and no last-minute changes, a flat rate provides predictability and avoids surprises.
Hourly Rate
An hourly rate starts at $59.50 per hour per mover and is more suitable for those who may not have a fixed inventory list or are unsure about the exact number of items they need to move. This rate is particularly beneficial if your move is relatively straightforward, like relocating a one-bedroom apartment with minimal furniture.
Unlike the flat rate, the hourly rate provides more flexibility. You only pay for the time the movers spend completing your job, and if your inventory changes, the price won’t automatically increase. This pricing model also allows you to control the duration of the move to some extent, particularly if you do some tasks yourself, such as packing or disassembling furniture.
For example, if you hire movers for a small, minimalistic apartment and the move is completed faster than expected, you’ll likely end up saving money. However, if the move takes longer due to unforeseen issues—like tight corners or traffic delays—the hourly rate could result in higher costs than anticipated.
Moving a Business in North York: Costs and Considerations
If you’re moving a business in North York, you’ll want to consider additional costs. Commercial moves often require more planning and resources than residential moves. Companies charge extra for handling office equipment, such as computers, servers, and large office furniture. The hourly rate for commercial moving in North York starts at $150 per hour but may increase based on the complexity. And requirement of move
Planning your office move during off-hours, like weekends or evenings, can help minimize disruptions to your business. Some movers charge extra for these time slots, so it’s essential to factor that into your overall cost.
Moving with Special Items: What You Need to Know
Moving special items such as pianos, antiques, or fine art requires extra care and equipment. Moving a piano in North York costs anywhere between $300 to $800, depending on its size. Fine art or antique pieces may require custom crating, which adds to the cost.
When booking your movers, make sure to mention any specialty items so the company can provide a more accurate estimate. Many Toronto movers offer this service, but not all are equipped for such delicate jobs.
Moving Insurance: Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
Moving insurance is often an afterthought, but it’s essential if you have valuable or fragile items. Most moving companies offer basic coverage, but this only covers a fraction of the value of your belongings. If you’re moving expensive items, consider buying additional insurance. The cost of moving insurance typically ranges from $5 to $10 per $1,000 of coverage.
It’s worth checking with your home or renter’s insurance to see if your policy already covers the move. Investing in full coverage can save you a lot of stress and potential financial loss.
Packing and Unpacking Services: Worth the Investment?
Packing can be time-consuming, and if done poorly, it can lead to damage. Professional packing services in North York range from $150 to $200 per hour for a two-person team. While this adds to your costs, it may save you time and ensure fragile items are packed securely.
Many moving companies also offer unpacking services. If you’re on a tight schedule or simply don’t want the hassle of unpacking, this is a convenient option. Consider bundling packing and unpacking with your move to save on costs.
Long-Distance Moving Costs
If you’re moving long-distance, your costs will differ from local moves. Moving from North York to a nearby city like Toronto can cost $800 to $1,800 for a 2-bedroom apartment, while moving across Ontario or to another province can range from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the distance.
For long-distance moves, most companies charge a flat fee rather than an hourly rate. They may also include mileage, fuel costs, and additional surcharges for tolls or border crossings.
Seasonal Discounts: Save on Moving Costs in North York
If you’re looking to save on moving costs, consider moving during the off-season, typically October to March. During this period, many companies offer discounts of up to 20-30%. You can also save money by moving mid-week rather than on weekends when movers are busier.
Booking your move in advance can also lead to cost savings. Some movers provide early-bird discounts if you book several months ahead of time.
Best Moving Company for North York Movers
If you’re looking for a moving company in North York or need to relocate quickly, One Day Movers offers fast, reliable services. We are one of the best moving companies in Toronto, specializing in last-minute moves, next-day furniture delivery, and full-service relocations. With competitive rates, professional movers, and a customer-first approach, One Day Movers ensures your move goes smoothly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Moving can be expensive, but by understanding the average moving cost in North York and knowing your options, you can budget effectively. Whether you’re moving across town or long-distance, costs depend on various factors, including the size of your home, the number of movers, and any additional services you require.
For residents of North York looking for reliable movers, One Day Movers offers fast, professional, and affordable moving services. Contact us today for a free quote and experience a hassle-free move with the best moving company in Toronto.
FAQs
Q. How much does it cost to move a 1-bedroom apartment in North York?
A: The cost typically ranges from $500 to $800, depending on the amount of furniture and how far you’re moving.
Q. Do movers charge extra for specialty items?
A: Yes, specialty items like pianos or fine art require extra care and usually cost more to move—between $300 to $500 for a piano.
Q. What is the hourly rate for movers in North York?
A: The hourly rate ranges from $109 to $199 per hour for two movers. One Day Movers charges $59.50 per hour per mover.
Q. How can I save money on my move?
A: Consider moving during the off-season or mid-week. Also, downsizing before the move can help reduce costs.
Q. Is it worth hiring packing services?
A: Yes, especially if you’re short on time. Packing services typically cost between $150 to $200 per hour.
Q. Are long-distance moves more expensive?
A: Yes, long-distance moves are priced differently and can range from $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the distance and size of the move.
Q. How far in advance should I book my move?
A: It’s best to book your movers 2 to 3 weeks in advance, especially during the busy summer months.
Q. Do movers offer insurance?
A: Yes, most movers offer basic coverage, but you can purchase additional insurance for valuable or fragile items.
Q. Do movers handle furniture assembly and disassembly?
A: Yes, many moving companies, including One Day Movers, offer furniture assembly and disassembly services at an extra cost.
Q. Can I hire movers for a last-minute move?
A: Yes, One Day Movers specializes in next-day and last-minute moves, offering flexible scheduling for urgent relocations.