Moving to a new place across Canada requires thoughtful budgeting and strategic planning. Whether you're relocating within your province or across the country, moving expenses can add up quickly—from hiring movers to purchasing packing supplies. The good news is that you can save considerable money through thoughtful planning and resourceful choices. This guide shares proven money-saving strategies that'll help you stick to your budget whilst keeping your belongings safe during the transition.​

Top 7 Ways to Save Money When You're Moving

Smart Budget Planning: Your First Step

Before anything else, establish a clear moving budget. Start by listing all potential expenses and gathering quotes from at least three different moving companies, including Shiftrix. Movers typically charge between $140 and $250 per hour in Canada, depending on your location and the complexity of your move.​

Your budget should account for transportation costs, labour fees, packing supplies, moving insurance, and storage if needed.

Timing Your Move Strategically

The timing of your move can dramatically impacts the costs. In the Peak moving season from May through September, rates spike due to high demand. If possible, schedule your move during off-peak months—October through March—to save significantly. Moving mid-week (Monday through Thursday) is even cheaper than weekend moves, as moving companies charge lower rates when demand is lighter.​

If you're flexible with dates, aim for the middle of the month rather than the 1st or the end. You'll find better availability and lower fees from professional movers. This simple timing adjustment can reduce your overall moving costs by 20-30%.

Decluttering: The Most Effective Cost-Cutter

The less you move, the less you pay. Sorting through your belongings before packing is the single most effective money-saving strategy. Go through each room and decide what truly matters. Host a garage sale, sell items on Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji, or donate unwanted goods to local charities like Value Village or the Salvation Army.​

Fewer items mean fewer boxes, lower transportation costs, and quicker packing. You might even earn extra cash selling your belongings—money that goes straight toward moving expenses. Clean and organize your current home whilst you're at it; many rental agreements require you to return your space in move-in condition to recover your security deposit.​

DIY Packing and Moving

Packing yourself is one of the biggest money-savers available. Instead of spending on bubble wrap and packing paper, use items you already have. Wrap dishes in clean towels and t-shirts. Pack fragile items in socks or tea towels. Use blankets, comforters, and sleeping bags to protect furniture. These household items protect your belongings just as effectively while eliminating supply costs.​

Collect free cardboard boxes from local supermarkets, liquor stores, and retail shops—most give them away gladly. Organise boxes by room and colour-code or label them clearly so you know what's inside. This approach saves money and makes unpacking infinitely easier.​For clothing, skip traditional folding. Roll garments tightly and pack them into suitcases, duffel bags, and storage bins. Keep hangers on your closet rod and slip a large garbage bag over them—instant garment bags that save both time and money. Use vacuum bags to compress pillows, blankets, and winter jackets further.​

Smart Moving Options:

Instead of working with multiple vendors and coordinating separate services, you should book a full-service moving company that handles your entire relocation, including packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking—eliminating the stress and uncertainty of DIY moving.

Otherwise, consider portable moving containers or traditional truck rentals, depending on your needs. A 10-12-foot truck for a local move costs approximately $150-$200. Containers offer flexibility—you pack at your own pace—and often cost less than full-service movers, particularly for long-distance moves.​

If choosing container services, load at the company's yard rather than pay for home delivery. If you're not in a rush, slower delivery rates save you money, as transportation costs are passed on to you as savings.​

Maximising Professional Help Wisely

Hiring professional movers isn't always as expensive as you think if you plan strategically. Early bookings can be a better deal, as they often include discounts. You can choose after comparing the price and service of multiple companies.​

Some companies bundle services—packing, loading, and unloading—at lower rates than when purchased individually. Ask about special offers and discounts; reputable Canadian movers frequently provide exclusive deals for customers who book early or move during off-peak periods.​

Tax Deductions: Don't Forget This Benefit

If you're moving for work or education, save every receipt—your moving expenses might be tax-deductible. If you're relocating to a new city for employment or attending post-secondary education at least 40 kilometres away, the Canada Revenue Agency allows deductions for eligible moving expenses.​ Consult with your accountant.

Conclusion: Your Budget-Friendly Move Awaits

Moving within Canada doesn't have to break the bank. The key is combining several money-saving strategies. Set a genuine budget after reviewing the multiple quotes. Don't hesitate to ask family and friends for help with heavy lifting.​ You'll enjoy a smooth relocation with thoughtful planning, whether you're moving across town or across the country.