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There is so much to consider when you move; cleaning up your existing home, hiring a real estate agent, hiring a lawyer, dealing with all the paper work, and of course, deciding how to move all your worldly possessions.
There is a long list of well-established Toronto moving companies to help you through the transition. Most moving companies in Toronto recommend that you plan ahead, particularly in the spring and summer months.
Not all Toronto moving companies are alike; some handle large volumes of clients, while others are small neighbourhood run businesses. There are moving companies that offer extras like packaging materials and special tools to assist you on the big day.
A little research can go a long way in making sure that your move goes smoothly.
Moving Checklist
Before you settle on a moving company you might want to go through a checklist like the one below:
- Get 3 estimates
- Make sure the company is insured
- Find out what the company's record is like? Can they give you references?
- Do they follow the "Good Practice Guidelines for Canadian Movers"?
- Do they have a Worker's Compensation Certificate so you don't have to pay for employee injuries?
International Move
If you are relocating to or from a foreign country, there are companies that specialize in assisting you. Starting with companies that have a long operating history is a good idea.
You will want to make sure that whatever Toronto international moving company you deal with has bonded staff, a sophisticated monitoring system, climate controlled storage, professional packing and consulting services and a strong global reputation.
Moving Costs
Most moving companies operate in the same way; the more stuff you have, the more expensive your move will be. Toronto moving companies generally charge by the hour and long distance moves are usually calculated using a combination of weight and distance to your final destination.
Keep in mind that some items may require special packing that typical moving companies are not equipped to handle. In other words, you may have to hire another company to help you.
An example might be taking apart your gym equipment and transporting. Make sure you ask about items like this.
Warnings
Be weary of any quotes that seem too low. Toronto moving companies have a good reputation, but every city has fallen victim to scams. Getting the 3 estimates allows you to compare prices and weed out potential problems.
The website www.canada-movers.ca allows you to get quotes from several moving companies at the same time. As added protection, you might want to consider checking the moving company's record through the Canadian Better Business Bureau.
You can also check out www.MovingScam.com, a site that includes a message board where consumers write about bad moving experiences. The site allows you to post questions and gain valuable insight.
Some real estate agents tell their clients that it is a good idea to keep valuables with you. If you don't have enough room in your car, you can always bury the items in a miscellaneous box.
Remember to check with your insurance company to determine whether or not you need extra coverage should the moving company lose or damage any items.
The best way to find a good moving company is by asking local real estate agents. They have the experience and knowledge to lead you in the right direction.
Local real estate agents know what companies can get you moved on time and on a reasonable budget. If you know someone who has moved recently, talk to them and ask what their moving company was like.
Moving is a huge undertaking whether you are going a short distance, across the country or to an international location. Researching and planning your move takes time, but you will discover that it is time well spent.
Hiring one of Toronto's many outstanding movers will allow for a stress fee experience.
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