June: All About Moving
When to hire a mover
Whether you’re handing over the keys to your old home or settling into a new one, the big day is almost here—moving day. One of the biggest questions homeowners face is: Should I hire professional movers or do it myself? The answer depends on your timeline, budget, the complexity of your move, and your comfort level with heavy lifting and logistics. Here’s how to make the right choice and ensure a smooth transition.
Things to Consider When Planning Your Move
Start by asking yourself:
How far am I moving? (Local vs. long-distance)
How much stuff do I have?
Do I have any specialty or fragile items (like a piano, artwork, or antiques)?
What’s my budget?
What’s my timeline?
Am I physically able and willing to do the heavy lifting?
When to Hire a Moving Company
Hiring a professional mover is ideal when:
You’re moving a large household or have lots of heavy furniture.
You’re short on time or unable to take time off work.
You have young children, pets, or mobility issues.
You’re moving long-distance.
You want peace of mind with insurance and trained movers.
What Movers Bring to the Table
Movers don’t just lift boxes—they bring efficiency, organization, and protection:
Professional packing and loading reduce damage.
Trucks and dollies make moving faster and safer.
They’re insured for damage and liability.
Experience means quicker setup in your new home.
Vetting a Moving Company
To avoid scams or poor service:
Check online reviews and look for companies registered with the Canadian Association of Movers.
Ask for written estimates (in-home is best).
Verify insurance and licenses.
Ask questions: Do they subcontract? What’s their claims process?
The Benefits of a Moving Broker
A moving broker, like Lisa “The Mover” Robinson at Streamline Relocations, takes the hassle out of finding the right company. Here’s how:
She assesses your move’s needs and matches you with vetted movers.
Brokers can often negotiate better rates and terms.
You’ll save time comparing quotes and researching companies.
Lisa has been a go-to for our clients thanks to her attention to detail and strong network of reliable movers. Need an intro? Just ask our team.
Specialty Items: Not for the Average Mover
Some things are best left to the pros:
Pianos
Hot tubs
Pool tables
Large artwork or antiques
These require unique equipment and experience. Ask your mover in advance if they handle these.
What You Should Always Move Yourself
Even with a pro mover, some things should ride with you:
Important documents
Jewelry or valuables
Personal electronics (laptops, cameras)
Sentimental items
Daily essentials (toiletries, a few days’ clothes, medication)
DIY Moving: When It Makes Sense
If you’re moving nearby, on a tight budget, or have minimal furniture, doing it yourself might work. Tips for a successful DIY move:
Recruit help early from friends or family.
Rent the right vehicle (and book early).
Label everything clearly and keep essentials separate.
Pad fragile items and secure your load.
Packers Only, Movers Only, or Both?
You can also split the difference:
Hire packers only if you’re tight on time but can handle the transport.
Hire movers only if you can pack yourself but need help lifting.
Or do it all with full-service movers—it’s more costly, but less stress.
We Can Help
Not sure where to start? Our team has a curated list of reliable movers and moving brokers we trust and recommend to clients. We’re happy to connect you!
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