Moving FAQ

1. Create a list of local moving companies you plan to research.
2. Get a quote from each mover. Make sure to get moving quotes directly from a company’s official website or phone number. Some of the top search results on Google are actually companies that sell leads to moving companies. Working with movers directly cuts out any middlemen and will result in the lowest price.
3. Learn about each moving company’s reputation by reading online reviews from real customers.
4. Ask whether each company is licensed and how they’re insured.
5. Determine how each mover’s schedule works. Is your move date guaranteed? Will the same person who loads up your belongings transport and unload them as well?
6. Make sure you’re comfortable with how each mover charges, their cancellation policy, and whether or not a deposit is required.
7. Choose whichever company best fits your move; everyone’s needs are different.

We like to take a very personalized approach with our customers, which is why we like to send out our estimator to physically see the scope of work for the move. Moves are always stressful, so we like to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible by making sure we have the right manpower and equipment for the job. This, in turn, creates a more accurate estimate so our customer’s knows what to expect and there are no surprises.

Estimates are calculated after we complete an onsite estimate. Once we know the entire scope of work, we will provide a comprehensive breakdown of costs to ensure total transparency. The calculation is based on many factors including how many movers are required, how long the move will take, and travel time between destinations. We also do not hide costs, so you will see a breakdown of fuel charges, supplies used, and insurance. Please note, we charge by the hour and final cost is based on hours worked.

No problem at all! While we always prefer to go on site, we also understand there are always times when it is not feasible. In these cases, we offer virtual estimates where we send a link to your cell phone and can do a walk through that way. Another option is to send us a detailed email about what you need moved, pictures are always welcomed! We just need to make sure we have enough information so that we can provide the most accurate estimate possible for you.

If you have a comparable estimate and the cost is the deciding factor, chat with us before making final decisions. If the estimate is the same in scope and manpower, we are open to discussion and will review your estimate with you. Also, please note if the estimate is “too good to be true” there is a chance that it is. Unfortunately, some companies like to lowball an estimate to get the move. Once the move is completed, they will give you a revised invoice which is usually significantly higher. DO YOUR RESEARCH-Google reviews, Better Business Bureau, word of mouth, and asking lots of questions are also important factors when deciding.

Our warehouse is located in Victoria and we mainly service Greater Victoria and the Westshore area. However, we also do moves throughout the Island, Gulf Islands, and over to the Mainland and Interior BC. If a move is further than our scope or it makes better sense for our customer, we work with the Great Canadian Vanlines to provide that service.

Yes, our warehouse and trucks have the appropriate insurance coverage in place. We also carry coverage through WorkSafeBC.

Yes, we offer 10% off the hourly rate for military personnel and veterans. Proper ID required.

Yes, we offer 10% off the hourly rate for seniors over 65.

First, determine the square footage of your house. Based on the square footage, you can estimate how many boxes you’ll need based on the average home and it’s contents.

• Less than 500 sq ft: 3 – 12 large boxes, 8 – 15 medium boxes, 12 – 18 small boxes, 2 – 5 dish barrels, and 3 – 5 wardrobe boxes.
• Between 500 – 999 sq ft: 5 – 15 large boxes, 10 – 20 medium boxes, 15 – 25 small boxes, 3 – 6 dish barrels, 3 – 6 wardrobe boxes.
• Between 1,000 – 1,499 sq ft: 10 – 20 large boxes, 15 – 25 medium boxes, 20 – 30 small boxes, 4 – 6 dish barrels, 5 – 7 wardrobe boxes.
• Between 1,500 – 1,999 sq ft: 15 – 25 large boxes, 20 – 30 medium boxes, 30 – 40 small boxes, 5 – 97 dish barrels, 5 – 10 wardrobe boxes.
• More than 2,000 sq ft: 20 – 30 large boxes, 25 – 35 medium boxes, 40 – 50 small boxes, 6 – 9 dish barrels, 8 – 12 wardrobe boxes.

You are going to want to keep anything you think you and your family will use on moving day. Some of the most common items are toilet paper, paper towels, snacks, phone chargers, things to keep your kids occupied and entertained, and your kids favourite toys. You will also want to keep any medication and important documents like birth certificates and passports with you. You may also want to set aside valuables and sentimental items. On the day of your move, you should put these things in a box or bag that you will take to your new home yourself.

1. First, choose the appropriately-sized box. For heavy items, such as books, use a small box. For lighter bulkier items, like throw pillows, use a larger box.
2. Assemble the box. Fold down the flaps on the bottom of the box — smaller flaps should be folded down before the larger flaps. Then apply packing tape to the seam. Always use packing tape. Masking tape or duct tape do not stick well to cardboard. If you’re packing something heavy, apply extra tape.
3. Crumple up pieces of packing paper and place them on the bottom of the box for cushioning, or fill the bottom with “packing peanuts / foam peanuts.”
4. If the items you’re packing are fragile, wrap them with packing paper or bubble wrap. Use tissue paper for especially delicate items such as china. Newspaper can stain.
5. Place each item in the moving box. Be sure to pack similar items in boxes, which makes unpacking much easier.
6. Pack the box as tightly as possible without overcrowding it.
7. Add extra packing paper or packing peanuts to the top of your box if there’s extra room, so your items cannot move around while they travel.
8. Once your box is packed, secure the box with packing tape. Boxes should always be taped shut to easily stack during transport. Never interlock the tops.
9. Label your box with its main contents and the room it belongs to. 

The average cost varies depending on the size and scope of work of the move. To get a better idea, we do provide onsite estimates.

This depends on how many movers are required for the move. When looking for a mover, inquire about an hourly rate for different size crews for comparison. Also ask about additional costs such as fuel charges, supplies, and insurance premiums.

 We recommend getting an estimate completed so that you know the full scope of work and what is required. When budgeting for a local move, also keep in mind the costs associated with moving such as the transferring of services and utilities and other misc. expenses that may occur.

As soon as possible! Every season has its busy times, so if you wait too long you may miss your window to get the dates that you need. Get an accurate quote from our professional movers and feel comfortable and ready to go when moving day comes.

Over the Winter (End of November to End of March). If you have the choice to move during any time of year this is the slowest time for bookings and can provide an opportunity to save money.

About 1-2 months in advance. If it is a very big move then the sooner the better.

This is dependent on the total scope of the job and can be determined with an estimate. The cost varies on the size of the move, location, and other requirements.

In most cases, we provide an estimate which will give you a lower and upper range of what to expect with your move. If you receive an estimate that is comparable, we are always happy to discuss it. If you request a quote, this will be the final invoiced amount.

Moving insurance, packing supplies and fuel surcharge. All of this is based on how big the move is and how far you are going. When you get your quote through BC Moving and Storage we include these costs up front so you have all the details before making your decision.

 We offer estimates which are a little bit different from a quote. We like to do an onsite survey of your move. This way we can determine the right manpower, equipment, and cost allocation.  Some customers require a quote (this is a set price) we can also do that after gathering more information about your move.