Toronto
International Removal Companies to Toronto
Preparing for the Move: Understand Pricing
The price of moving depends on the how much is being moved, the value of the goods, and the distance to be moved. If possible, ship only the truly indispensable items and try to buy when you arrive to abate some of the cost.
Shipping Size
Basic shipping costs are calculated on the amount of volume (Cubic Feet) that your packed goods will take up in one of our shipping containers. Volume is calculated by multiplying the length x depth x height.
Distance
Removal cost also depends on the point of origin and final destination. Certain regions are expensive despite a shorter distance.
Common Additional Costs
Note that the final price is almost always more expensive than even the best estimates. Be knowledgeable about basic costs and budget more than the cost of the estimate.
- Access at collection or delivery may be difficult so a smaller van has to be brought in or hired.
- Collection or delivery on higher floors, with or without a lift. This requires extra men and additional costs.
- Parking permits may be required at collection or delivery addresses (the customer usually has to arrange these – a local council will advise if they are necessary).
- The final destination might be several hundred miles from a port.
Shipping Options: Ground, Sea or Air
The three basic options are to go by ground, sea or by air, or a combination of the three. Most companies offer all options, so inquire about the price difference and decide which method is best for you.
Ground
Moving with only ground travel is uncommon unless moving a short distance. This is much slower then flying, but much less expensive. This method is often done in conjunction with sea or air shipping.
Sea
To move by sea takes about 6-8 weeks, but costs less than traveling by air. If moving by sea, your household goods will be packed into containers that are usually loaded at your residence. Once your home is packed into the containers, they are then shipped by rail or transport to the port where they are then loaded on to a steamship container. The container is then loaded on the boat as cargo. Once your goods have arrived in the new country, the container is unloaded and must pass through customs. International movers will be able to help you with the custom forms and are responsible for clearing your goods.
Air
Moving household items by air is becoming increasingly popular, despite a much higher price tag. Heavy cardboard boxes are normally used to pack your goods, although some air freight companies will use containers. You may find that shipping items by air is less expensive than renting a furnished place or living in a hotel.
Airfreight is calculated on either the actual gross weight of the consignment or the volume weight, whichever is the greater. Weight is expressed in kilograms. To calculate the volume weight of a given item we multiply the length, breadth and height in centimeters and divide by 6000 to obtain the volume weight in kilos. For household goods the volume weight generally exceeds the gross weight.
Groupage
To save money, you can ship your items with other people's belongings. Known as "groupage", your personal belongings will be shipped with the personal belongings of one or more customers. While this offers considerable financial savings, it can take much longer. Usually, the shipment is sent a central location warehouse with later shipments being made to a country specific destination.
If your shipment is large, or cost is not an issue, direct shipping is a better option. The truck will contain your personal belongings only and will go directly to its final destination without stopping at any other warehouse.
You-pack / We-drive Service
Another option when moving your goods is to do the packing yourself. This can save you money, and ensure your items are given the care they deserve. However, this is only an option if you are moving from the United States to Canada.
The process is simple:
- Contact a Company that provides this service.
- A moving truck or storage container is delivered to your house for you to pack at your leisure
- Once packed, you arrange for the company to pick up the truck or container
- The company moves the truck or container to the new residence
- You unload the truck and move into your new home
- The company pick up the container or truck
Companies available for international relocation:
Finding a Reputable Company
Feedback from people who have used the company are invaluable. While online reviews can easily be found by googling a company, you can trust other expat experiences and ask questions on the EasyExpat Canada Forum. Also ask people you know like friends, neighbors, co-workers, and family as they are all valuable resource. If your company is moving you overseas, they often work with the same company time and time again, so check with co-workers for tips and stories for their experience. Find out which companies have the reputation as the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Basic Questions to ask during your Meeting:
- How long has your company been in business? While a new company isn't necessarily a bad choice, experience is valuable.
- What is your safety record?
- Establish if the company will be doing the move themselves, or if they will be sub-contracting out the job. In general, avoid hiring a moving broker.
- Can you put me in touch with former customers? Good tour companies should have no problem supplying references.
- What is the full company name, address, phone number, and website?
- What equipment do you provide? How many movers am I guaranteed?
- Can I see proof of your local/interstate/international moving license and insurance?
- What paperwork is necessary? Do they handle customs for all items?
- What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Compare international movers on our Moving Partners. After you have determined companies you could work with, get their estimates in writing. A verbal agreement is not enforceable, so make sure to have the estimate and details written down. By comparing multiple estimates, you will find what an average price for your move will really be and find a company that best matches your expectations. It will also inform you of the different offers and advantages different companies offer. This can provide you room to negotiate with the company of your choice.
Use the Recommended Service Partner tool below to compare prices and receive free quotes.
Update 18/08/2018
Related articles:
As any expat knows, the key to a successful move is all in the preparation. By readying yourself for any possible bumps in the road ahead of time, you can rest assured you’ll be prepared to handle anything moving throws at you.
Removal Services Scotland has put together ‘The Ultimate Family Moving Guide’ in partnership with EasyExpat.com - so whether you're a moving pro or a first timer, our handy guide can take the stress out of your next move to Canada.
When you move internationally you are taking a big step. Lots of things are changing and you have a million things to think about and take care of. If you are able to select a top of the line moving company that moves for a modest price, it can take a big weight of your shoulders in busy times.
Our network of international removal companies can move your furniture & possessions to Canada and anywhere overseas.
Filling in the form will allow you to request up to 5 quotes from various moving companies. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Do you have comments or personal information to communicate about this article? Add your comment.
Find links about departure / international removal companies to Toronto and a lot more in The links of expatriation.
Find more definitions and general answers on expatriation issues in the Expat FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions).
Go to the Forum to talk more about international removal companies to Toronto, departure.