Moving Services Licensing in Ontario

Moving companies in Ontario are not required to hold a provincial licence. There is no provincial regulatory body specifically overseeing movers. However, all moving contracts over $50 must comply with the Consumer Protection Act, 2002, which requires a written contract outlining pricing, dates, and additional charges. The Ontario Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery maintains a Consumer Beware List of movers with unresolved complaints. For interprovincial moves, a federal Safety Fitness Certificate from Transport Canada is required.

Check the Ontario Consumer Beware List. Get a written contract with all fees itemized. For interprovincial moves, ask for their Safety Fitness Certificate.

(1) No written contract or binding estimate - verbal quotes are unenforceable (2) Demands a large cash deposit upfront before the move (3) No verifiable physical address or company appears on the Ontario Consumer Beware List (4) Holds your belongings hostage for additional payment above the quoted amount (5) Unmarked trucks and movers without uniforms or identification

(1) Is your estimate binding or non-binding, and what happens if the final cost exceeds 10%? (2) What insurance coverage is included, and what does it cover per pound or per item? (3) Are there additional charges for stairs, long carries, or specialty items? (4) Will the same crew handle loading and unloading, or will there be a transfer? (5) Do you appear on the Ontario Consumer Beware List? Can I verify your company history?

While not legally required, it is strongly recommended that moving services carry liability insurance. Ask for proof of coverage before hiring.

Typical rates for moving services in Ontario range from $120-$250/hour (2 movers + truck). Number of movers required, truck size, distance (local vs. long-distance), volume and weight of belongings, whether packing services are included, stairs and elevator access (stair fees of $50-$100 per flight are common), specialty items (pianos, pool tables, safes), time of year and day of week (weekends and month-end are premium), and insurance coverage level. Most companies enforce a 2-4 hour minimum. All quotes are subject to 13% HST in Ontario.