Moving puts a lot on your plate. A few careful questions before booking can help you understand the service, compare prices and avoid unpleasant surprises.
You do not need to know every moving term. Start with these ten checks and ask for clear answers before making a commitment.
1. Confirm who you are hiring
Ask for the business name, contact details and the name of the company that will actually carry out your move. Check that the details on your quote match the company you contacted.
2. Look beyond the star rating
Read recent reviews and look for details about communication, handling of belongings and billing. Check more than one source. A polished website or a high rating alone does not tell the whole story.
3. Give movers a clear picture of the job
Share an item list, photos, addresses and access details. Mention stairs, elevators, heavy items, long walks and parking restrictions. Ask whether a walkthrough is needed before the estimate can be reliable.
4. Compare what each quote includes
A low price may cover a different crew, fewer hours or fewer services. Compare the same job details across quotes and ask about anything that seems unclear.
5. Get the price structure in writing
Confirm whether you are paying by the hour, by weight or a flat rate. For hourly work, ask about minimum hours, travel time and when the clock starts and stops. Ask whether taxes are included.
6. Ask about possible extra charges
Discuss stairs, heavy items, packing materials, storage, waiting time and access problems before booking. Ask how any changes to the agreed job will be priced and documented.
7. Understand deposits and payment timing
Before paying a deposit, get written terms explaining what it secures, whether it is refundable and when the balance is due—including whether payment is required before unloading. Keep receipts and be cautious about pressure to pay before receiving clear terms.
8. Ask how your belongings are protected
Find out what happens if an item is lost or damaged. Request the coverage terms, limits, exclusions and claim process in writing. Keep photos of valuable or fragile items before the move.
9. Read the agreement before signing
Check the date, addresses, services, pricing and cancellation terms. Do not sign blank documents. Save a copy of the quote, agreement, messages and receipts where you can access them on moving day.
10. Pause when the story changes
If the price or terms suddenly change, ask for an itemized explanation and compare it with your agreement. Keep a written record. If you suspect fraud, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre; contact local police if you are threatened or in immediate danger.
Your quick booking checklist
- Company and contact details confirmed
- Job details and written estimate reviewed
- Extra charges, deposit and payment timing understood
- Protection and cancellation terms checked
- Copies of all documents saved
Useful Canadian resources
For additional guidance, see Ontario’s guide to hiring a mover and the Competition Bureau’s warning about rogue movers. To report suspected fraud, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.