Scarborough is known for its diverse immigrant communities, including Chinese, Filipino, Somali, Indian, and Caribbean cultures.
Every year, the city attracts many newcomers who migrate here for a variety of reasons.
When moving to Scarborough, one of the foremost concerns for most people is often the cost.
On average, hiring local movers in Scarborough for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $775 to $1,500. For a long-distance move of the same size, it can be between $3,190 and $9,680.
The accurate cost of your move will depend on the property size (home and office) and where you’re moving, among other essential factors.
So, how much does it cost to hire movers in Scarborough? Our brief guide will help you understand relocation expenses in Scarborough.
What is the average cost of hiring local movers in Scarborough?
Local movers in Scarborough help you move within the same city and nearby locations, usually up to 150-200 km.
Typically, local movers in Scarborough charge hourly rates between $139 and $150 per hour. This price includes service by two movers and one truck with no travel charges.
If you’re planning to move from Scarborough to surrounding cities in Ontario, here are the estimated average costs you can expect to pay movers:
| Average moving cost | Studio or 1-Bedroom | 2-3 Bedrooms | 4-5 Bedrooms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scarborough to Toronto | $750-$1,750 | $910-$1,875 | $2,320-$2,615 |
| Scarborough to Markham | $650-$1,270 | $900-$1,780 | $2,000-$2,340 |
| Scarborough to Pickering | $570-$880 | $725-$1,120 | $1,270-$1,890 |
| Scarborough to Ajax | $600-$920 | $870-$1,370 | $1,445-$1,965 |
| Scarborough to North York | $720-$1,560 | $1,025-$1,775 | $1,500-$2,165 |
The average cost of moving in Scarborough can vary widely, depending on several factors. These include:
- The distance of your move
- The size of your home and the amount of belongings you’re relocating
- Whether you opt for professional movers or choose to rent a truck and handle the move yourself
Moving special items, such as pianos, hot tubs, sheds, pool tables, and safes, require extra care and attention from movers, which can increase the overall cost.
Additionally, some items in your move may need protection from extreme temperatures, light, or humidity, necessitating climate-controlled storage, which comes at a higher cost.
These items may include antiques, books, computers, electronics, delicate clothing, expensive furniture, paintings, musical instruments, vinyl records, and wine collections.
To ensure the safety and proper handling of these special items, it’s good to hire professionals. This can help prevent unexpected costs and injuries during the moving process.
How much does a long-distance move cost from Scarborough?
While local movers in Scarborough charge you hourly, most long-distance moving companies in Scarborough charge you based on the weight of your belongings, and the distance from pick-up to drop-off location.
Average cost for 1-bedroom home—$2,150-$6,500
Average cost for 2-3 Bedroom home—$4,500-$9000
Average cost for 4-5 Bedroom home—$5,000-$15,000+
The best way to get an accurate cost estimation is to get a free quote, where a moving company representative considers your requirements and provides an accurate, evaluated cost estimation.
Comparing the Expenses: Hiring Movers versus DIY
When it comes to deciding between hiring professional movers or opting for a do-it-yourself approach, one of the key factors to consider is the cost involved.
Certainly, a do-it-yourself move can be less expensive than hiring a full-service moving company. However, cost is not the only factor—you cannot overlook the convenience of packing, loading and unloading that comes with hiring movers.
Check the table below to compare both aspects in terms of the cost you can expect to pay in Scarborough:
| Service | Hiring movers | DIY moving |
|---|---|---|
| Truck rental charges | Included in service | Starting from $19.95, plus fuel fees, depending on the truck’s size |
| Labor costs | Hourly rates | No labour costs |
The cost of packing supplies is included in the professional moving service, while for DIY moving, you can expect to pay around $50 to $250, depending on the quantity and quality of supplies you purchase.
If you aim to cut costs, renting a truck is ideal for smaller moves. This will prove easier if you have friends and family for packing and loading. However, for larger or more complex relocations, hiring professional movers is often worth the investment, despite the additional expense.
Conclusion
While $650 may be the starting range for local moving costs in Scarborough, it’s important to recognize that the costs vary based on your requirements.
Before you hire Scarborough movers for your next move, get a quote and understand all the associated factors that may influence the cost of your move.
Frequently asked questions
Got more questions about the cost of moving services in Scarborough? Below are the FAQs we’ve compiled to address your needs.
How can I get an accurate estimate of my local moving costs?
To get an accurate estimate, you should provide detailed information about your move, including the distance, the size of your home, and any special items that need to be moved.
What is the most cost-effective way to move in Scarborough?
Either hire professional movers for larger moves or rent a truck and handle the move yourself for smaller moves. We recommend you compare quotes from different moving companies and consider factors like distance, the size of your home, and the amount of stuff you’re moving.
Do I need insurance for my belongings during a move in Scarborough?
While most moving companies in Scarborough provide primary insurance coverage, it is recommended to consider additional insurance for valuable items. Discuss insurance options with your moving company to protect your items adequately.
Which is the best season to move in Scarborough to save on costs?
To save on moving costs, the best seasons to move are during the off-peak seasons, such as fall or winter. The demand for moving services is typically lower during these times which leads to potentially lower prices and easy availability.
Are there items that moving companies don’t move?
Yes, certain items moving companies may not move due to safety or liability reasons. These items can include hazardous materials, perishable items, and plans. We recommend you check with the moving company for their specific restrictions.
Does the time of year affect the moving cost in Scarborough?
Yes, the time of year can affect the moving cost in Scarborough. Peak moving seasons, such as spring and summer, often have a higher demand for moving services. However, in off-peak seasons like fall and winter, it is easy to get lower prices due to the decreased demand.
