How Much Do Movers Cost in Kingston, ON, in 2024?

Are you planning a move in Kingston and wondering about the cost of hiring movers in 2024?

Kingston, located in southeastern Ontario, Canada, is known for its rich history as the country’s first capital city. Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston boasts stunning waterfront views and a vibrant cultural scene, attracting visitors from around the world.

Understanding the relocation expenses in Kingston can help you budget your move well and ensure a smooth relocation to your new address.

On average, local movers in Kingston will cost you around $550 to $3,500, while long-distance moves cost anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000 or more.

The accurate cost of hiring movers in Kingston can vary depending on factors such as the distance of the move, the size of your home, the season you choose to move, and additional moving services required.

The table below will give you a quick overview of local and long-distance moving expenses in or out of Kingston based on different apartment sizes.

Cost for local move within Kingston

Cost for long-distance in/out of Kingston

**Please note that the moving costs provided in this article are average estimates.

You can refer to this guide to understand how much it costs to move to, from, and within Kingston, ON.

The information will walk you through the different moving cost factors and different types of moves, along with some valuable tips that will make your moving journey much easier in 2024.

What is the average cost of local movers in Kingston?

For a local move in Kingston, you can expect to get an hourly rate that includes a specific-size moving crew and a truck. Generally, you pay an hourly moving price, and the number of hours your movers take will determine the overall cost.

The standard movers’ rate usually includes $130-$150 per hour for two movers and 1 moving truck.

• For a small space like a studio or one-bedroom apartment, you may require 2-3 movers, with total moving cost averages as low as $580 and can go up to $1,000 or more.
• A two-bedroom local move could cost between $850 and $1,200, while moving from a three-bedroom home may run around $1,580 to $2,050 with 2-3 movers working at the hourly rate.
• For larger homes with four or more bedrooms, expect to spend between $2,190 and $4,200 based on similar hourly prices.

It is important to note that these are average estimates, and the final price may vary depending on additional services required, and specific circumstances during your move.

7 Common factors that affect the moving cost in Kingston

Certain factors influence the cost of movers in Kingston—some are part of the process, while others are hidden. 

Here are the biggest factors that affect the cost of hiring movers in Kingston:

1. Moving distance

The distance between your current location and destination is a prime factor contributing to the cost of moving in Kingston. To get an idea about the moving estimate, check how long it takes to move from your current address to the new one.

Moving to nearby places like Gananoque and Napanee may be cheaper.

However, the moving cost in Kingston will likely increase if you relocate to farther locations like Toronto or Hamilton. The longer distance means more expenses for transportation and fuel. So, when planning your move around Kingston, think about how much you want to spend to stay within your budget.

2. Type & Volume of Household Goods

The more stuff you need to move, the more the cost of hiring movers in Kingston. The volume of your belongings will also determine the size of the moving truck required. Also, certain things that moving companies won’t move so it’s better to clarify with the company’s representative about them. 

So, if you have a lot of belongings then you need a larger truck that can accommodate more items. Hence, a moving company may charge a higher price for it.  

Specialized Item Moving Cost 

If you have delicate, valuable, or specialized moving items like antiques, artwork, or fragile glassware, they require extra care, unique packing materials, and handling. This can increase the overall moving cost in Kingston as it demands more time and expertise from the movers.

Piano Moving Cost in Kingston

For piano moving in Kingston, the cost can range from $250-$500, and for hot tubs and similar items, you can expect to pay around $500 or more, based on the size and weight of the item.

3. Getting professional packing services

You can expect to pay more if you hire movers to pack and unpack, too.

Two primary factors that influence the cost of packing services are –

• The expenses associated with the packing materials utilized
• The labour time required by movers to securely pack your items

These expenses cover the cost of items like boxes, tape, labels, cushioning materials, and other packing supplies. You can use a packing cost calculator to get a precise estimate for your particular packing requirements.

4. Moving date

Some moving companies in Kingston charge you the same price regardless of the date or season, while others charge their rates based on demand. Generally, you can expect to pay higher during the weekend and the peak moving season-summer.

Additionally, moving during the beginning or end of the month may also result in higher expenses due to increased demand, as movers are more occupied during these times. 

5. Furniture assembly & disassembly

You’ll need to pay more if your furniture requires disassembly and reassembly. Whether it’s a heavy sofa or complex bed frame, movers are equipped to handle the assembly and disassembly with precision during your move.

If you don’t perform this task yourself before the movers arrive, they’ll have to dismantle sectionals, and couches, and disconnect appliances, typically with hourly charges for these services.

6. Access fees

Access fees can significantly impact the cost of moving in Kingston. These fees are charges incurred due to various potential obstacles during the moving process, which may include:

• Multiple flights of stairs
• Narrow staircases or hallways
• Elevator usage
• Shuttle services for multiple stops (between $50 and $300 per leg)
• Appliance hook-up/disconnect fees (varies by appliance)

These costs can add up quickly, so you can inquire about access fees before hiring movers to understand the cost of moving in Kingston.

The good news is that you can reduce access fees by following simple moving hacks that make everything easier and cheaper.

• Move belongings to the ground floor and save one stair and elevator charges.
• Get parking permits in advance to avoid long-carry fees.
• Disconnect and unplug appliances and electronics
• Disassemble furniture to facilitate a smoother transition

7. Additional Costs during the move

There may be other costs to consider based on the moving services you need. It is essential to consider these overlooked expenses in your budget, including:

Packing supplies

Getting packing materials such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials typically costs more than the hourly moving rate. You can get the cost estimate and shop for the necessary packing materials to secure your belongings.

Moving Insurance

Moving insurance provides coverage for your belongings during the move. It helps cover the cost if anything gets lost or damaged.

While most moving companies provide some level of coverage, you can still consider additional options to protect valuable or delicate items during the move.

Temporary Parking Permit

If your move involves street parking for a period, you might need to get a temporary parking permit, which can be an extra expense for you.

Storage

If your move requires temporary storage of items, you should include storage costs in your budget. Moving companies can accommodate your requirements with temperature-controlled storage facilities, whether you need short-term or long-term storage.

We recommend you inquire about storage costs and options while obtaining quotes from moving companies that allow you to budget accordingly for the additional service.

Conclusion: Cost of hiring movers in Kingston, ON

Planning a move can be overwhelming, from deciding how to pack your valuables to estimating the cost of relocation in Kingston.

However, if you research, ask the right questions to the moving company, and plan, you can have an affordable Kingston move.

To get an accurate estimate, contact reliable local Kingston movers who can assess your specific moving requirements and offer a tailored quote based on your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about the cost of hiring movers in Kingston, ON

What is the affordable way to move to or from Kingston?

Moving yourself is affordable but you’ll need to rent a truck and buy packing supplies. However, hiring full-service Kingston movers makes your relocation cost-effective and smooth. You can save money by packing some items yourself while still benefiting from professional help.

How can I save money on relocation costs in Kingston?

To save money on relocation costs:

• Declutter and downsize before the move
• Pack your belongings yourself
• Schedule your move during off-peak times.
• Compare quotes from multiple moving companies
• Sell or donate items you no longer need

Are there any additional fees or charges I should know when hiring movers in Kingston?

Additional fees such as packing services, storage, and insurance may apply. When getting quotes from moving companies, it is essential to inquire about these potential charges.

How far in advance should I book moving services in Kingston?

We recommend booking moving services as far as possible, especially during peak moving seasons. This helps ensure availability and may even help you get discounted rates for early booking.

Why is moving in Kingston expensive?

Moving can be expensive due to the following reasons:

• Hiring movers for labor and transportation is a major cost.
• Relocation expenses increase with packing supplies, insurance and other costs.
• The overall cost is influenced by the moving distance, home size and the chosen moving date.

How can I estimate the total cost of my relocation in Kingston accurately?

You can estimate the total cost of your relocation in Kingston by considering factors such as moving services you need, packing materials, transportation, insurance and any additional expenses specific to your move.

What is the best time of year to move in terms of cost in Kingston?

Moving during off-peak seasons, such as fall or winter, may result in lower relocation costs in Kingston compared to peak moving seasons like summer. Additionally, scheduling your move for the middle of the month can also help save money, as moving prices tend to be lower during this time due to decreased demand.

Do moving companies in Kingston provide insurance coverage for belongings during the move?

Most moving companies in Kingston offer basic insurance coverage for belongings during the move. We recommend asking about the extent of coverage and considering getting additional insurance if required.