Moving across Canada? Use these 7 proven tactics to get the best possible deal from long-distance moving companies and save thousands on your relocation costs.
Moving your belongings across the country is no small task. With so much to organize and coordinate, the costs can quickly spiral out of control. However, you can take charge of your move and negotiate the best possible rates with moving company across Canada.
This guide shares 7 powerful negotiation strategies to save thousands on interprovincial relocation. Read on to become a moving rate negotiation pro!
Research Industry Average Costs
Before opening negotiations, educate yourself on standard cross-country moving rates. This allows you to spot unusually high quotes and bargain from an informed position.
The table below displays the average costs per kilometer and cubic meter for a long-distance move:
| Moving Distance | Average Rate Per Km | Average Rate Per Cubic Meter |
| 500km or less | $1.50 – $2.00 | $35 – $55 |
| 500-1500km | $2.25 – $3.00 | $65 – $85 |
| Over 1500km | $2.75 – $4.00 | $75 – $110 |
With this baseline understanding, you can accurately evaluate initial quotes.
Get Multiple Quotes
Next, collect estimates from at least 3-4 reputable moving companies. Be sure to get binding quotes itemizing all projected costs.
With several quotes in hand, you create competition and bargaining power. If one company’s quote seems outrageously high, exclude them. Then leverage the most reasonable quotes against each other in negotiations.
Ask About Discounts
Did you know most moving companies offer sizable discounts to win your business? It never hurts to ask!
Common discounts include:
- Senior/military/student discounts
- Off-peak season discounts
- Recommendation rewards
- Loyalty rewards for return customers
- Bundling discounts by using the same company for packing, storage, etc
So don’t be shy! Find out what special savings could take a chunk out of your moving bill.
Offer to Pay Upfront
Moving companies value guaranteed business. If possible, offer to pay a deposit or even the full amount upfront. This gives them confidence you’ll choose their services.
In return, request 5-10% off to pay early. Most movers happily offer this win-win arrangement.
Schedule Off-Peak Dates
Aim to move during the fall and winter slow seasons of September-February. Avoid peak summer months when demand surges.
Movers have more availability off-season, allowing them to offer:
- Cheaper base rates
- Expanded discounts
- Quicker responses
You’ll have maximum leverage negotiating in their slow period.
Request a Binding Contract
The fine print matters when securing rock-bottom rates. Request a written, binding contract covering every agreed term, including:
- Final price with all discounts applied
- Specific packing/loading/unloading dates
- Liability for damages
- Acceptable payment methods
This locks in the negotiated rate and protects you from surprise charges. Don’t finalize plans without one.
Get Creative with Incentives
If a company won’t nudge further on discounts offered, get creative with incentives. Consider the following:
- Ask if they price match competing quotes
- Offer to write a positive online review
- Promise to recommend them to friends who are also moving
- Inquire about-creative bartering (e.g. free advertising)
Anything you can do to sweeten the deal might persuade them to shave off a bit more.
The key is leveraging these 7 rate negotiation strategies to secure the best price from cross-country movers.
Do your homework, create competition, ask for discounts, offer incentives, choose off-peak dates, get a binding contract, and you could save thousands on your upcoming interprovincial relocation!
