Moving Costs in Edmonton: An Updated Guide For 2024

Moving is often a big task, not just physically, but financially too. Whether you’re staying within Edmonton or heading somewhere farther away, having a clear idea of what it’s going to cost for your move will make your decision easier. If you’re busy with work or just prefer to leave the heavy lifting to professionals, understanding the costs upfront is key. Our process follows a disciplined, organized approach, making our prices more competitive than others listed below. Let’s cover what hiring the average mover looks like.

Here’s a breakdown of the current moving costs in Edmonton to help you plan your budget. From smaller moves like one-bedroom apartments to more complex long-distance relocations, these numbers give you a good idea of what to expect.

Moving Costs in Edmonton

Cost of Moving Locally in Edmonton

When you’re getting ready to move across Edmonton, there’s more to think about than just loading up a truck. Movers here typically charge by the hour, but the final bill can vary depending on what you’re moving, how much help you need, and even how long it takes to get your large furniture through doorways or up stairs. Most movers will charge between $110 and $150 per hour for a team of two with a truck. If you come across anything cheaper, it’s worth asking why. Maybe the company isn’t insured, or they’re cutting corners—both things you’ll want to avoid.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what local moves might cost you:

• One-Bedroom Apartment: If you’re moving the contents of a small apartment, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $800. That’s assuming you’re doing the packing yourself and just need the heavy stuff moved.
• Two-Bedroom Home: For a two-bedroom home or larger apartment, you’re looking at around $800 to $1,200. More rooms mean more work, so movers will likely need more time to get everything loaded and transported safely.
• Three-Bedroom or Larger Homes: For bigger homes, the cost can range between $1,200 and $2,500. More space usually means more furniture (and possibly disassembling and reassembling items), which is why the price climbs for larger homes.

Additional Costs to Keep in Mind

You’ve got your basic move cost, but what about all those extras that could crop up? Here are a few additional services that can make your move easier but will add to your total bill:

• Packing Services: Let’s be honest, packing can be overwhelming. If you need movers to handle it, that could add an extra $200 to $600, depending on how much stuff you have. Consider hiring professional packing assistance to take the stress off your shoulders.
• Unpacking Services: Maybe you’ve got too much on your plate and can’t face unpacking everything. Movers can help with that too, for another $150 to $400. It’s not just about dumping boxes in your new place—they’ll set things up, saving you hours of work.
• Junk Removal: Got some old furniture or random junk that’s not making the trip to your new place? Get rid of unwanted items before your move with M&M Movers’ junk removal services. This can range from $100 to $500 depending on how much you need hauled away.
• Storage Solutions: Sometimes everything doesn’t line up perfectly, and you need a place to store your belongings temporarily. Temporary storage options for your belongings typically cost between $100 to $300 per month, depending on the size and whether you need special features like climate control for fragile items.

These add-ons can make your move a lot more manageable, but be sure to factor them into your budget upfront so you’re not caught off guard.

Long-Distance Costs: If You’re Moving Outside of Edmonton

When your move takes you beyond Edmonton, the pricing setup changes. Long-distance moves are generally priced based on the distance traveled, the size of your load, and any additional services you might need. Instead of being charged by the hour, long-distance moves often come with a flat fee that covers essentials like mileage, fuel, and the work involved in getting everything to your new home.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Moves within Alberta: If you’re moving to another city within Alberta, costs typically range from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the distance and the volume of items to be moved.
• Cross-Provincial or Extended Moves: If you’re relocating to another province or traveling a longer distance, the cost can climb to $7,500 or more, especially if there are added logistics or challenges to the move.

What Affects Long-Distance Moving Costs?

Several things will shape the final price of your long-distance move. Knowing what to expect helps you avoid surprises on your final invoice:

• The Farther Away Your New Home: The farther you’re moving, the higher the cost. Movers calculate the number of kilometers they’ll need to travel and factor in fuel costs and time on the road. Long-distance trips, especially those crossing provincial lines, tend to drive up the overall cost.
• How Much You’re Moving: The more belongings you have, the higher the cost. Movers generally calculate based on the volume of items, so a larger home with more furniture and boxes will result in a bigger final bill.
• Extra Services: If you need help packing, unpacking, or moving fragile or specialty items, these services will add to your total. Depending on the complexity, these extras can tack on $500 to $1,000 or more. If you need temporary storage for your belongings, that will also push up the final cost.
• Timing: Just like with local moves, the timing of your long-distance move affects the price. Peak moving seasons (like summer or weekends) come with higher costs. Scheduling your move during quieter times, such as mid-week or during the off-season, can help you save.

Final Tips for Long-Distance Moving:

Here are some practical ways to ensure your long-distance move goes smoothly while keeping costs in check:

• Plan Ahead with Your Movers: Make sure to provide your movers with detailed information about what you’re moving, any specialty items, and the layout of both your current and new homes. Having things like parking restrictions or elevator access squared away ensures an accurate quote and smooth process.
• Declutter Before You Move: One of the best ways to cut down on costs is to reduce the amount of stuff you’re bringing. Consider donating or selling items you no longer need—lighter loads equal lower costs.
• Prepare for Delays: When it comes to long-distance moves, traffic, road conditions, or weather can cause delays. It’s smart to build a little extra time into your schedule. Keep essentials like clothes and important documents with you in case the moving truck takes longer than expected.

• Hire an Experienced Mover: Not every mover is familiar with managing large trucks across provincial borders, which can complicate your long-distance move. It’s important to choose a mover who has proven experience with long-distance moves and understands the logistics required to transport your belongings safely and efficiently over extended distances.

Now that we’ve covered long-distance moving costs, let’s look at how packing and specialty items impact your final bill.

Packing and Specialty Items

Packing is one of the most time-consuming tasks when preparing for a move. If you’d rather leave it to the experts, many movers offer packing assistance for your move to ensure that everything—from your kitchenware to your wardrobe—is packed safely and securely for transport. Let’s look at the costs for packing services in Edmonton based on the size of your home:

• One-Bedroom Apartment: Packing services typically range between $200 to $400. This price includes basic packing materials and the labor required to get your essentials ready for the move.
• Two-Bedroom Home: With more space and belongings, packing a two-bedroom home costs around $400 to $600. This includes handling fragile items like dishes and electronics, ensuring they’re protected during the move.
• Three-Bedroom Home: For larger homes, expect to pay between $600 and $1,000. Movers will take care of packing, labeling, and preparing your belongings for a smooth transport.
• Four-Bedroom Home or Larger: Packing services for homes with four or more bedrooms usually range from $1,000 to $1,500. This covers the entire household, from furniture to personal items, with organized packing for an easier unpacking experience.

In addition to regular packing services, you might need help with specialty moving services like pianos, artwork, or antiques. These require special care and equipment to ensure their safe transportation:

• Piano Moving: Safely moving a piano generally costs between $250 to $500. For larger or grand pianos, the price can go up to $1,200, especially if stairs are involved.
• Pool Tables: Disassembling, moving, and reassembling a pool table can cost anywhere from $300 to $800, depending on its size and the complexity of the move.
• Artwork and Antiques: Items such as valuable artwork or antiques may require custom crating and special handling. Movers typically charge between $100 to $300, depending on the item’s size and fragility.

Hiring professionals to handle packing and moving specialty items ensures your belongings are well cared for, minimizing the risk of damage. If you’re looking for moving supplies to keep your items safe during the process, you can see what we offer on our  moving materials and supplies page.

Specialty Items

Moving large or delicate items requires extra care and, often, specific equipment. Here’s what to expect if you need help with any specialty items:

• Piano Moving: Moving a piano safely usually costs between $250 to $500, and for grand pianos or moves involving stairs, it can go up to $1,200.
• Pool Tables: Pool table disassembly, moving, and reassembly can cost between $300 and $800, depending on its size and the complexity of the move.
• Artwork and Antiques: Items like artwork or valuable antiques may require custom crating and special handling. Movers typically charge between $100 to $300, depending on the size and fragility of the item.

Hiring professionals to handle packing and specialty items ensures your belongings are transported safely, reducing the risk of damage during the move.

Now that we’ve covered packing and specialty items, let’s move on to some additional fees and hidden costs that can come up during your move. These charges often depend on your home’s layout, the accessibility of your building, and the logistics involved. Knowing these ahead of time can help you avoid surprises when the final bill comes.

Hidden Fees and Additional Costs

Even with a well-planned move, there are additional fees that can arise, and knowing what they are ahead of time can help you avoid surprises. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Stair Fees: If your home or building doesn’t have an elevator or if the movers have to carry items up or down more than one or two flights of stairs, expect to see a stair fee added to your bill. This charge generally ranges between $50 to $100 per flight.
• Long Carry Fees: If the moving truck can’t park close to your home and movers have to carry your belongings for an extended distance, they may charge a long carry fee. The fee typically ranges from $50 to $200, depending on how far they have to carry items from your home to the truck.
• Packing Materials: Basic packing materials such as blankets or wardrobe boxes are often included in your moving package. However, for specialty packing materials like bubble wrap, custom crating for delicate items, or extra boxes, expect to pay more. Custom crating for valuable artwork or fragile items can cost anywhere from $100 to $300.
• Heavy Lifting Charges: For larger items like pianos, hot tubs, or heavy appliances, movers may charge an additional fee due to the extra labor or equipment needed. These charges typically range from $150 to $500, depending on the item’s size and complexity.
• Shuttle Fees: If the moving truck cannot access your home directly (due to narrow streets or parking restrictions), movers may need to use a smaller vehicle to shuttle your belongings between your home and the truck. This service can cost anywhere from $200 to $500, depending on the distance and difficulty of access.

By asking your movers about these potential fees in advance, you can avoid surprises and ensure you stay on budget. Understanding the logistics of your move and being clear about your home’s layout, including any staircases, parking restrictions, or long-distance carries, will help your movers provide a more accurate estimate. If you require office or business movers who specialize in handling more complex moving needs, consider checking out our office moving services to get a better sense of potential fees and requirements.

Let’s move on to another important topic: insurance options for your move. When moving, you should make sure your belongings are protected, and knowing the different types of coverage available will help.

Insurance Options for Moving

When planning your move, your insurance will make sure your belongings are protected in the case of damage or loss.Most moving companies provide basic coverage, but depending on the value of your items, you may want to opt for additional protection.

• Release Value Protection: This is the most basic level of protection and is typically included in your moving package. It compensates for damaged or lost items based on weight, at $0.60 per pound. For example, if a 100-pound item is damaged, you’ll receive just $60 in compensation, regardless of its actual value. While this coverage is free, it might not be enough for high-value or fragile items.
• Full Value Protection: For those moving valuable items, full value protection offers more comprehensive coverage. If an item is damaged or lost, the mover must repair, replace, or compensate you for the full value of the item, often at $5 to $10 per pound. This level of protection comes at an additional cost but provides peace of mind for those with expensive or irreplaceable belongings.
• Choosing the Right Coverage: The choice between basic and full value protection depends on the value of the items you’re moving and your level of comfort with risk. For those with standard household goods, basic coverage might suffice. However, if you’re moving expensive electronics, artwork, or antiques, full value protection might be a safer option.

By understanding your coverage options, you can ensure that your belongings are protected, no matter what happens during your move. Whether you’re opting for basic protection or more extensive coverage, it’s important to discuss your insurance needs with your movers ahead of time to ensure you’re adequately covered.

How The Time Of Year Changes Your Moving Costs

The time of year when you move can greatly impact the cost of your move. Local movers in Edmonton adjust their rates based on demand, so choosing the right season or day can make a difference in your final bill. Here’s how timing plays a role in moving costs:

• Peak vs. Off-Peak Seasons: Movers are busiest during the spring and summer months, as well as on weekends, which means higher demand and increased rates—sometimes 25% to 30% higher than off-peak times. If you can schedule your move for the fall, winter, or even mid-week, you’ll likely get better rates and have more flexibility in booking.
• Mid-Week and Mid-Month Moves: Most people plan their moves at the beginning or end of the month, when leases expire. However, choosing to move during the middle of the month or mid-week can save you money, as movers are less busy during these times and may offer lower rates to fill their schedules.
• Weather Considerations: Moving in Edmonton during winter comes with its own challenges, such as icy roads or snow, but these factors can also mean lower costs since fewer people move during the colder months. Just be prepared for potential delays due to weather conditions.
• Holiday Rates: Planning a move around major holidays, like Christmas or long weekends, can also increase your costs, as movers may charge more during these periods. If possible, avoid scheduling your move during these high-demand times to keep your costs down.

By being strategic about when you move, you can save a significant amount on your moving costs.

Avoiding Unexpected Costs

Even with careful planning, unexpected fees can pop up during your move. While we’ve already discussed factors like waiting and stair fees, there are a few additional charges that can slip into your final bill if you’re not aware of them:

• Travel Fees: Some movers charge for the time it takes to travel between their office and your home, particularly if you’re located far from the mover’s base. This is especially common if you’re outside the city or in a more remote area, so it’s worth asking upfront if this fee is included in your quote or if it will be an additional charge.
• Fuel Surcharges: For long-distance moves or moves outside of Edmonton, fuel surcharges might be added to cover the cost of gas. These fees can vary depending on the distance and current fuel prices, so be sure to check with your movers before booking.
• Tolls or Parking Fees: In certain areas, movers may encounter toll roads or require paid parking, which could end up on your bill. If your movers need to navigate through toll zones or park in paid areas, such as city centers or apartment complexes with limited access, these costs will be passed on to you.
• Stair and Elevator Fees: If your home has multiple flights of stairs or tricky elevator access, it may result in additional charges. Being upfront with your movers about the layout of your home will help them give you a more accurate quote and avoid surprises later on.

By asking about these potential costs early in the planning process, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what your total bill will look like. Keeping an open line of communication with your movers ensures you’re prepared for any added fees and can avoid being caught off guard on moving day.

Tips to Save on Moving Costs

Reducing your moving costs is all about smart preparation. Here are some practical ways to cut down on expenses without sacrificing quality:

• Pack Ahead: One of the simplest ways to lower your moving costs is by handling the packing yourself. Begin packing at least two weeks before your move, working room by room. By being organized and having everything ready for your movers, you’ll cut down on labor time, which directly affects your bill. Use your own suitcases, baskets, and bins to reduce the number of boxes you need to purchase.
• Declutter Before You Pack: The fewer items you need to move, the less you’ll pay. Decluttering is a great way to reduce the volume of your move. Sort through your belongings and decide what you no longer need. Sell items online, hold a garage sale, or donate unwanted items to charity. By lightening the load, you’ll save on packing materials, reduce labor time, and potentially require a smaller truck.
• Move During Off-Peak Days: If possible, plan your move for a time when movers aren’t as busy. Avoid weekends, the first or last few days of the month, and summer. Instead, opt for a mid-week, mid-month move during the off-season, such as fall or winter. Movers often offer lower rates during these periods, which can significantly reduce your costs.
• Use Free or Low-Cost Packing Materials: Save money by finding free packing materials or using what you already have. Wrap fragile items in towels or clothing instead of buying bubble wrap. Many local stores give away cardboard boxes, or you can check online marketplaces for free or discounted supplies. Every small saving adds up in the end.
• Disassemble Furniture Yourself: If you have large furniture that needs to be taken apart for the move, consider doing it yourself ahead of time. Movers charge by the hour, so if they don’t have to spend time disassembling and reassembling furniture, you’ll save on labor costs. Make sure you keep all screws and pieces organized for easy reassembly at your new home.
• Prepare for Delays: Sometimes, delays on moving day can lead to extra charges. For instance, if movers have to wait for keys, elevator access, or parking permits, this downtime may be billed. Ensure that you’ve confirmed all logistics with your building management or real estate agent in advance to avoid unnecessary delays.

How M&M Movers Helps You Save

M&M Movers has built its reputation on efficiency, military-inspired discipline, and customer satisfaction. Here’s how they help make your move as affordable as possible:

• Discipline in Execution: M&M Movers takes a disciplined, step-by-step approach to ensure your move is handled quickly and carefully, helping to save time and money. Whether it’s carefully packing fragile items or efficiently loading the truck, their attention to detail keeps the process smooth from start to finish.
• Competitive Rates: M&M Movers provides transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Their pricing is competitive, offering value without compromising the quality of service. They focus on providing clear estimates upfront, so you know exactly what to expect before moving day.
• Customer Satisfaction: With a strong commitment to customer service, M&M Movers ensures that all your moving needs are met with professionalism. From pre-move planning to post-move follow-ups, they go the extra mile to make sure you’re satisfied with their service.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Prepared Move is a Cost-Effective Move

Keeping your moving costs manageable doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking the time to plan ahead, packing your belongings early, and choosing the right time to move, you can significantly cut down on unnecessary expenses. M&M Movers offers professional services designed to help you save money without sacrificing quality.

If you’re ready to make your move, reach out today for a free, personalized estimate, and let M&M Movers handle your move with care, precision, and cost-consciousness. Your next move can be affordable and hassle-free with the right team by your side.

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Author

Mikhail, also known as Michael, is the owner of M&M Best Movers. He was inspired by his family’s experience in the moving business and decided to start his own company in Edmonton. With over 20 years of experience, Mikhail and his team work hard to make moving stress-free for their customers by handling their belongings with care and ensuring a smooth moving process.