Average Moving Cost | Vancouver, BC, Canada

Service Overview (Intro)

How Much Do Movers Cost in Metro Vancouver?

If you are planning a move, one of the first questions you will ask is how much movers cost in Vancouver, BC, Canada. The short answer is: it depends. The average cost of movers varies based on distance, size of the move, access conditions, timing, and the type of service you choose.

This guide breaks down moving service costs in Vancouver, explains what affects pricing, and helps you understand how much a moving service really costs so you can plan your budget with confidence.

Average Cost

Average Cost of Movers in Vancouver, BC, Canada

Most moving companies in Vancouver price local moves by the hour, while long-distance moves are priced based on distance, volume, and logistics.

Typical Local Moving Costs

Based on Hour Rates for Local Move:

• $120–$180 per hour for a 2-person crew and truck
• $160–$220 per hour for a 3-person crew
• Minimum booking of 2–3 hours

These rates are common in urban areas such as Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Surrey.

Note: Travel time is billed at a minimum of one hour, even if the actual driving time is shorter. This covers the time movers spend traveling to your pickup location, moving between locations, and returning to their base after the job.

Flat-Rate Pricing for Local Moves

Some moving companies offer flat-rate pricing for local moves once you provide detailed information about your move, including photos, access conditions, and pickup and drop-off locations. With a flat-rate quote, the price stays the same even if the move takes longer than expected—unless important details were not disclosed in advance.

Typical flat-rate ranges for local moves may include:

• $250–$350 for a 2-person crew with a cargo van
• $450–$700 for a 2-person crew with a moving truck
• $700–$900 for a 3-person crew with a moving truck

Note: Flat-rate pricing is based on the information provided before the move, including item list, access conditions, stairs, elevators, and distance. Additional charges may apply if key details were not disclosed in advance or if on-site conditions differ from what was shared.

Typical Long-Distance Moving Costs

• Studio or small apartment: $1,200 – $2,500
• 1–2 bedroom home: $2,000 – $4,500
• Larger homes: $4,000+

For cross-region moves, see our long-distance moving services and Western Canada routes.

Cost Factors

What Affects Moving Service Cost?

• Distance and Travel Time

  • Local moves are billed hourly, while long-distance moves factor in mileage, fuel, and sometimes overnight logistics.

• Size and Weight of the Move

  • More furniture, heavier items, and fragile pieces increase labour time and may require a larger truck or extra crew members.

• Building Access and Restrictions

  • Condos with elevators, booking requirements, or strict time windows often increase move duration. If you live in a condo, this guide is essential: Condo moving rules, elevators, and COI requirements .

• Packing and Supplies

  • Proper packing helps reduce labour time and lowers the chance of damage during a move. Many people cut costs by renting boxes rather than purchasing cardboard ones. Reusable moving box rentals are typically more economical, allow for faster loading and unloading (which can reduce hourly moving charges), and offer better protection for your belongings.

You can also choose additional moving supplies and equipment—such as dollies, blankets, and bins—and add them to your order when booking your moving box rentals.

Understanding Quotes

Understanding Moving Quotes

How Moving Company Quotes Work

A moving quote is an estimate based on:

• Time required
• Crew size
• Truck size
• Distance and access
• Special handling requirements

Quotes are usually hourly for local moves and flat-rate for long-distance or complex jobs.

Flat-Rate vs Hourly Pricing

Hourly pricing works best for small moves, short distances, and flexible schedules. Flat-rate pricing works best for long-distance moves, full homes, and tight delivery windows.

How to Compare Moving Quotes Properly

When comparing quotes, confirm:

• Hourly rate and minimum hours
• Travel time policy
• What is included (fuel, stairs, wrapping)
• Insurance and liability coverage

Be cautious of unusually low quotes. This article explains why: Hidden moving costs and fees explained . For transparent pricing, use our online moving estimate.

Service Types

Residential vs Delivery Services: Cost Differences

Residential Moving Services

Full moves involving loading, transport, and unloading fall under residential relocation services .

• Studio apartment moving
• Condo moving
• Student and campus moves
• Senior downsizing

Delivery Services

If you are moving only one or a few items, delivery services are usually more cost-effective, and you can see our pricing and availability online through our online delivery booking.

• Furniture delivery
• Marketplace pickups
• Appliance delivery
• Art and fragile item delivery

Additional Costs & Cost Reduction

Additional Costs People Often Forget

• Packing materials
• Long carries
• Elevator delays
• Junk or unwanted item removal

Clearing items before moving can reduce labour time. Junk removal services often lower overall moving costs.

How to Reduce Your Moving Costs

• Declutter before moving
• Pack in advance
• Use reusable bins instead of cardboard
• Move mid-week or mid-month

Helpful planning resources:

• The ultimate moving checklist
• How to pack for a move
• Cardboard vs plastic boxes

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts: How Much Does a Moving Service Cost?

So, how much do movers cost in Canada? For most people, the answer ranges from a few hundred dollars for small local jobs to several thousand for long-distance moves.

Choosing the right service type, understanding your quote, and avoiding hidden fees makes the biggest difference. To get started, request a moving estimate or reach out through our contact page.