Moving to Canada Here is what you need to know
Moving to Canada Here is what you need to know
Canada has become one of the top destinations for expats, students, and skilled workers seeking stability and a high quality of life. Although living costs can be high in major cities, they are balanced by excellent public services, universal healthcare, and strong economic opportunities.
The country is known for its safety, cultural diversity, and welcoming immigration policies. From the multicultural cities of Toronto and Vancouver to the European charm of Montreal and the natural beauty of Calgary, Canada offers a wide range of lifestyle options. With a strong job market and inclusive environment, it continues to attract people from around the world.
Strong
Job Market
Strong
Job Market
Lifestyle Dynamic culture with a rich mix of traditions, cuisine, and city life.
Quality of Life
High quality of life with excellent healthcare, safety, and inclusiveness.
Innovation Hub
Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are major tech and innovation centers.
Infrastructure
Modern cities with reliable transport and well-developed public services.
World-Class Education
World-Class Education
Top-ranked universities and a strong public education system.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Diverse, welcoming communities with access to nature and outdoor activities.
900
Verified Movers
3,400
Reviews
800 - 2,200
Avg Local Move
13
Regions
900
Verified Movers
3,400
Reviews
800 - 2,200
Avg Local Move
13
Regions
900
Verified Movers
3,400
Reviews
800 - 2,200
Avg Local Move
13
Regions
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
€150–€500
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
€50–€200/mo
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
€100–€400
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
€200–€800
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
€50–€200
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
€75–€250
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Most Asked Questions
What’s the best shipping option for moving to Canada?
For most international moves, sea freight is the go-to (5–9 weeks). Air freight works for essentials, but most people combine both to balance speed and cost.
Will I have to pay import taxes on my belongings?
Usually not. If you’re moving as a new resident, used household goods are typically duty-free, but only if everything is properly declared and documented.
Do I need to be in Canada before my shipment arrives?
Yes, ideally. You’ll need to be there to clear customs and provide documents. If your shipment arrives too early, it can end up in storage, adding extra costs.
How long does a full move to Canada usually take?
It depends on where you're moving. Canada has larger homes than many countries, so shipping furniture can make sense, but always compare shipping costs vs buying locally.
What’s the biggest mistake people make when relocating to Canada?
Bad timing. Shipping too early (before having an address) or too late (living without your things for weeks) is one of the most common and costly issues.
Is moving to Canada expensive overall?
It can be. Shipping, deposits, and initial setup costs add up, but Canada offers strong quality of life, which is why many see it as worth the investment.
Moving Costs Breakdown
Moving Costs Breakdown
Understanding the full cost of your move
helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises.
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$400 – $900
2–3 Bed Apartment
$900 – $2,200
4+ Bed / House
$2,200 – $4,800
Local Movers
International
Long Distance
Local Moving Costs
Moving within the same city or province is the most affordable option. Prices vary based on apartment size, floor level, and volume of belongings.
Studio / 1 Bed
$400 – $900
2–3 Bed Apartment
$900 – $2,200
4+ Bed / House
$2,200 – $4,800
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$220 – $700
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$80–$280 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$150–$500
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$300–$1,200
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$90–$300
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$120–$350
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$220 – $700
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$80–$280 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$150–$500
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$300–$1,200
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$90–$300
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$120–$350
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
Additional Costs to Consider
Packing Services
$220 – $700
Professional packing of fragile and bulky items.
Storage
$80–$280 / month
Short or long-term storage if your new home isn’t ready.
Insurance
$150–$500
Transit insurance to protect your valuables during the move.
Specialty Items
$300–$1,200
Pianos, artwork, antiques, and other high-value items.
Elevator / Stairs
$90–$300
Additional fees for upper-floor apartments without elevator access.
Long Carry
$120–$350
Extra charges when the truck can’t park close to your door.
· Research cities and provinces that fit your lifestyle (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary) · Start decluttering and deciding what to ship vs. buy locally · Begin gathering quotes from verified international movers · Check passport validity and visa requirements for Canada (work permit, study permit, PR, etc.)
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa or immigration application (if not already approved) · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (provincial healthcare + private coverage)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Prepare documents for SIN (Social Insurance Number) application · Organize important documents (birth certificates, proof of funds, immigration papers) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to Canada · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Canadian contact details with the mover
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa or immigration application (if not already approved) · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (provincial healthcare + private coverage)
· Book your preferred moving company · Start your visa or immigration application (if not already approved) · Notify your landlord or list your current property · Research health insurance options (provincial healthcare + private coverage)
· Arrange international packing and shipping services · Prepare documents for SIN (Social Insurance Number) application · Organize important documents (birth certificates, proof of funds, immigration papers) · Begin cancelling or transferring utility accounts
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Confirm all moving dates and logistics with your mover · Arrange temporary accommodation for arrival · Purchase travel insurance for the international move · Notify relevant authorities of your change of address
· Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first few weeks · Confirm flight arrangements to Canada · Do a final walkthrough of your current home · Back up important digital files and download offline maps
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Canadian contact details with the mover
· Supervise the loading of your belongings · Hand over keys and complete final checks of your property · Keep important documents, valuables, and medication with you · Confirm delivery date and Canadian contact details with the mover
Most Asked Questions
Most Asked Questions
What’s the best shipping option for moving to Canada?
For most international moves, sea freight is the go-to (5–9 weeks). Air freight works for essentials, but most people combine both to balance speed and cost.
Will I have to pay import taxes on my belongings?
Usually not. If you’re moving as a new resident, used household goods are typically duty-free, but only if everything is properly declared and documented.
Do I need to be in Canada before my shipment arrives?
Yes, ideally. You’ll need to be there to clear customs and provide documents. If your shipment arrives too early, it can end up in storage, adding extra costs.
How long does a full move to Canada usually take?
It depends on where you're moving. Canada has larger homes than many countries, so shipping furniture can make sense, but always compare shipping costs vs buying locally.
What’s the biggest mistake people make when relocating to Canada?
Bad timing. Shipping too early (before having an address) or too late (living without your things for weeks) is one of the most common and costly issues.
Is moving to Canada expensive overall?
It can be. Shipping, deposits, and initial setup costs add up, but Canada offers strong quality of life, which is why many see it as worth the investment.
Want to know more about each city?
Want to know more about each city?
Want to know more?
Sponsors
A + International
A + International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.
A Place in the Sun Currency
A Place in the Sun Currency
Our currency exchange service helps individuals buying, selling, or maintaining overseas property with secure international payments and competitive exchange rates.
Abroad Experience Recruitment
Abroad Experience Recruitment
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Aetna Health Insurance
Aetna Health Insurance
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa & Immigration
Agato Visa & Immigration
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
Aims Immigration & Relocation Specialist
Aims Immigration & Relocation Specialist
AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.
April International
April International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
Aquent
Aquent
We provide global workforce solutions, connecting businesses with skilled talent, technology, and recruitment services across creative, digital, and professional industries.
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Copyright © Moveasy BV
Copyright © Moveasy BV
Copyright © Moveasy BV
Sponsors
A + International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, travelers, students, and businesses, offering worldwide coverage and easy access to quality healthcare.
A Place in the Sun Currency
Our currency exchange service helps individuals buying, selling, or maintaining overseas property with secure international payments and competitive exchange rates.
Abroad Experience Recruitment
Abroad Experience connects international professionals with multilingual career opportunities in the Netherlands, offering recruitment support and career guidance.
ActiveQuote Ltd
ActiveQuote is a health insurance comparison platform that helps individuals and businesses easily compare and choose the right health plans.
Aetna Health Insurance
Aetna provides comprehensive health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness solutions worldwide.
Agato Visa & Immigration
We connect people and businesses across cultures and languages, helping organizations build strong international relationships and expand globally.
Aims Immigration & Relocation Specialist
AIMS provides immigration and relocation services, specializing in visas, residency, investment migration, and global mobility solutions across Asia.
April International
APRIL International provides flexible international health insurance for expats, students, travelers, and businesses, offering worldwide medical coverage and digital support.
Apt Wealth Partners
Apt Wealth Partners provides personalized wealth management, financial planning, and investment advice to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their financial goals.
Aquent
We provide global workforce solutions, connecting businesses with skilled talent, technology, and recruitment services across creative, digital, and professional industries.
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