Relocating across Canada is a big task—especially when you have to move both your belongings and your vehicle. The process can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're moving across the country or just to the next city, these tips will help you ensure a smooth move. And if you need help with transporting your vehicle, Quick Cars Moving is here to assist.
Tip 1: Plan Ahead with a Moving Checklist
Creating a detailed moving checklist can help you stay organized throughout the process. A checklist is especially crucial when planning a long-distance move to ensure that all aspects—packing, finding movers, and scheduling—are covered. In Ontario, for example, having a moving checklist will help you coordinate the various steps involved, from hiring movers to notifying utility companies.
8 Weeks Before the Move:
Research and get quotes from long-distance moving companies and car shipping services.
Create a moving budget to include costs for both household items and vehicle transport.
Make an inventory of all household items and your vehicle’s condition (photos, notes).
Decide which items to keep, sell, or donate.
Start gathering packing supplies for both household goods and any items stored in your car.
6 Weeks Before the Move:
Book a reliable moving company for your home and a car shipping service like Quick Cars Moving for your vehicle.
Notify utility companies about your moving date and address change.
Arrange for school records to be transferred if moving with children.
Start packing non-essential items (seasonal clothes, books, etc.).
Prepare your vehicle for shipping: clean the interior, remove personal items, and check for any maintenance needs.
4 Weeks Before the Move:
Confirm moving dates with the moving company and car transport service.
Notify your landlord, if applicable, and arrange for the return of your security deposit.
Update your address with important contacts (banks, insurance, etc.).
Schedule disconnection and connection of utilities.
Organize important documents, including vehicle shipping contracts, and keep them in a safe place.
2 Weeks Before the Move:
Pack up most of the household, leaving out daily essentials.
Arrange for pet transportation or boarding if needed.
Cancel or redirect subscriptions and services (newspapers, cable, etc.).
Dispose of hazardous materials that can't be moved (paint, flammables).
Confirm parking arrangements for the moving truck and ensure a convenient pick-up spot for your car transport.
1 Week Before the Move:
Prepare an essentials box with items you'll need right away at your new home.
Defrost and clean out your refrigerator.
Get your car ready for shipping: take photos of your vehicle, disable alarms, and ensure the gas tank is only 1/4 full.
Confirm all moving details with both the movers and car shipping service.
Double-check all paperwork and contracts with movers.
Moving Day:
Do a final walk-through of the house to check for forgotten items.
Ensure movers have the correct contact information.
Take photos of your furniture and car for insurance purposes.
Verify that all windows and doors are locked before leaving.
Provide clear instructions for movers at the new home and confirm the delivery details with your car shipping company.
After the Move:
Unpack essentials first and set up the kitchen and bedrooms.
Inspect your vehicle upon arrival for any damage and contact the car shipping service if necessary.
Register your vehicle and update your driver’s license if moving to a new province.
Review your moving company’s services and leave feedback.
Explore your new neighborhood and find local services (grocery, pharmacy, etc.).
Tip 2: Choose the Right Moving Company & Car Shipping Partner for moving Your Car & Stuff
When moving long distances, it's crucial to select a reliable moving company for your household items and a trusted car shipping partner. Quick Cars Moving can handle transporting your vehicle while you focus on choosing a reputable house mover for your furniture and other belongings. To ensure you make the best decision, make sure to compare moving quotes and read reviews. You can also explore best car shipping companies in Canada to help you make an informed choice.
The Best Canadian Car Transport Companies of 2024
Quick Cars Moving: Best Overall
Professional Car Carriers: Best Value
Montway Auto Transport: Best Service
TFX International: Best Enclosed Service
MVS Canada: Most Reliable Service
Tip 3: Combine Moving Services for Efficiency
Combining your local moving services with a specialized car shipping company like Quick Cars Moving can simplify the process of moving your car & stuff. This approach allows you to coordinate both your vehicle and household move together, saving you time and effort. It also means less stress, as you only need to communicate with two main service providers for your entire move.
Tip 4: Understand the Costs Involved
One of the most important aspects of planning a move is understanding the costs. The price of hiring long-distance movers and a car shipping service varies based on distance, size, and timing. To help you budget, get quotes from multiple moving companies and factor in any additional services like packing or storage. Quick Cars Moving offers competitive rates for car transport, making it easier to include vehicle shipping in your moving budget.
Tip 5: Secure the Right Insurance Coverage
Insurance is a must for both your household items and your vehicle when moving across Canada. Make sure that your movers provide coverage for your belongings, and confirm the details with them in advance. For your car, Quick Cars Moving offers insurance options to ensure that your vehicle is protected throughout the transport process.
Tip 6: Prepare Your Car for Transport
Before shipping your car, it’s important to prepare it for the journey. Clean the interior and exterior, remove personal items, and document any existing damage with photos. These steps help ensure a smooth handover and receipt of your vehicle. Quick Cars Moving takes pride in providing hassle-free vehicle transport across Canada, handling all the logistics so you don’t have to worry.
Tip 7: Timing is Key—Book Early
Timing is everything when it comes to moving. Book your moving company and vehicle shipping service well in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer. Early booking can often result in better rates and ensures availability for your preferred moving date. Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your move with Quick Cars Moving—plan ahead for the best experience.
So how much stuff can we ship in the car? I need to transport my car from Vancouver to Toronto with some bags and a Computer.