Moving is a big task, and one of the first questions people ask when planning a move is, “How much do movers cost in Calgary?” Whether you’re moving into a new apartment, a house, or even a commercial space, understanding the costs involved can make a huge difference in your planning. If you’re new to Calgary or even a long-time resident, it’s always good to know what you’re getting into when hiring professional movers.

In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that influence moving costs in Calgary, what you can expect to pay, and how to get the best value for your money.

What Affects the Cost of Movers in Calgary?

When you’re getting ready for a move, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much it will cost. A variety of factors come into play when pricing moving services, and understanding them will help you better plan your budget.

1. Distance of the Move

The distance between your old home and your new one is a significant factor in determining your moving costs. Local moves within Calgary typically cost less than long-distance moves, especially if you’re heading out of town or even out of the province.

  • Local Moves: These are typically under 100 km. The cost of local moving services in Calgary can vary from $100 to $150 per hour depending on the number of movers you need, how long it will take, and the size of your home.

  • Long-Distance Moves: If you’re moving outside of Calgary, such as from Calgary to Vancouver, expect to pay significantly more due to the added travel time, fuel, and logistics. Prices can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the size of your move and the distance.

2. Size of the Move

The amount of stuff you need to move is another crucial factor. The more furniture and items you have, the more time and manpower it takes to move. This also means more trucks or larger vehicles will be required.

  • Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment: Typically, a small move like this may cost between $300 and $600 for a local move.

  • 2-3 Bedroom Home: Moving a family-sized home with a couple of bedrooms may cost between $600 and $1,200.

  • Larger Homes: For larger homes with multiple bedrooms, expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more depending on the number of items and how far you’re moving.

3. Time of Year

The time of year can play a significant role in your moving costs. Calgary has distinct seasons, and moving costs fluctuate throughout the year. The summer months (May through September) tend to be busier because families prefer to move when the weather is warm and the kids are out of school. As a result, prices tend to be higher during this time.

  • Peak Season (May – September): Prices may be 10-20% higher due to demand.
  • Off-Peak Season (October – April): You’ll likely get a better deal if you move during these months.

4. Additional Services

Many moving companies in Calgary offer add-on services that can increase the cost of your move. These services might include:

  • Packing Services: If you don’t want to pack your things yourself, movers can do this for you. Packing costs usually range from $100 to $300 depending on the size of your move and the materials used.

  • Storage: If you need to store your items before or after your move, some moving companies offer short-term or long-term storage solutions. Storage costs vary but can range from $50 to $150 per month depending on the size of the unit.

  • Furniture Disassembly/Reassembly: If your furniture needs to be taken apart before the move, and then reassembled at your new place, that could add another $50 to $200 to your final bill.

  • Heavy Item Moving: If you have large or specialty items like a piano or a large safe, expect additional charges ranging from $200 to $1,000 depending on the complexity of the move.

5. The Number of Movers

The number of movers you need will depend on the size and complexity of the job. The more movers you need, the higher the hourly rate will be. Typically, the more movers you hire, the faster the move will be, but it comes with a higher cost. Expect to pay between $30 and $50 per mover per hour. On average, moving companies provide 2-3 movers for smaller moves, and 4+ movers for larger homes or offices.

6. Accessibility

The location of your property can also affect the cost of the move. For example, if you’re moving to or from a high-rise building in Calgary, extra fees may apply if the movers need to use an elevator or navigate difficult staircases. Similarly, if the moving truck cannot park close to your home, the movers may have to walk a longer distance to transport your items, which could increase costs.

Average Moving Costs in Calgary: What to Expect

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for different types of moves:

Local Moves (Within Calgary)

  • 1 Bedroom Apartment: $300 – $600
  • 2-3 Bedroom Home: $600 – $1,200
  • Larger Homes (4+ Bedrooms): $1,500 – $3,000

Long-Distance Moves (Outside Calgary)

  • Calgary to Vancouver: $2,000 – $5,000
  • Calgary to Edmonton: $1,000 – $2,500

Add-Ons

  • Packing: $100 – $300
  • Storage: $50 – $150/month
  • Heavy Items: $200 – $1,000

How to Save Money on Your Move

No one wants to overspend, so here are a few tips for saving on your move:

  1. Book in Advance: If possible, book your movers several weeks ahead of time to avoid higher last-minute rates, especially during peak season.

  2. Move During Off-Peak Times: As mentioned, moving during the off-season (fall or winter) will likely save you money. Consider a weekday move, as weekends are generally more expensive.

  3. Do Some of the Packing Yourself: You can save on packing fees by packing your own boxes. Just make sure to use the right materials to ensure your items are safely packed.

  4. Downsize Before Moving: The less you have to move, the cheaper your move will be. Take this opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need.

  5. Get Multiple Quotes: Not all moving companies charge the same rates. Reach out to several reputable moving companies in Calgary and compare their quotes.

Final Thoughts

So, how much do movers cost in Calgary? The price of hiring movers in Calgary can range anywhere from $300 for a small, local move to several thousand dollars for larger, long-distance moves. The exact cost depends on a variety of factors, including the distance of your move, the size of your home, the time of year, and any additional services you may need.

At Apex Moving YYC, we pride ourselves on offering affordable and reliable moving services. We understand how stressful moving can be, and our team is dedicated to making your move as seamless as possible. Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote, and let’s make your move a breeze!