When planning a big move across provinces, it can often feel quite stressful to relocate from Ontario to Alberta. Many people make mistakes, which causes the costs of the move to increase, as well as delays and unpleasant stress. If you want your long distance move from Toronto to Alberta to stick to your budget and stay on schedule, please avoid these 7 common mistakes. Alberta Strong Movers has your back with straightforward advice to protect you, your belongings, and your purse.
Mistake 1: Selecting a Mover Without Long Distance Experience
Moving long distance requires planning, managing the route, checking weights and making enclosures for secure movement. Movers who usually only do local jobs may not even have systems in place to facilitate a move that long distance. This can cause delays, communication problems, or even lost items.
How to avoid this:
- Ask about the number of cross-provincial moves they complete every year
- Ask for references from long-distance clients
- Make sure they have procedures set up for long trips and remote delivery points
Mistake 2: Accepting a Rough Quote
It may seem more convenient to get a rough quote, but in the end, it is often going to come back to you with extra charges. A proper long-distance estimate should include mileage, weight and fuel, as well as unloading the shipment.
Your written estimate should include:
- Break out all prices
- Travel time
- Weight or volume calculations
- Cost of packing materials
- Delivery window
Mistake 3: Not Asking About Hidden Travel Fees
If you are crossing provinces, there may be additional fees associated with the stairs, narrow access, fuel surcharges, overnight stays, new tolls, etc. Often, we have seen that some companies add those costs on moving day.
You should be asking these questions early on:
- Are there fuel or distance charges
- Will the stairs or the long carry distance be charged
- Will storage be needed if the dates do not match
- What if they cannot park close to the home
Mistake 4: Assuming Insurance is Included
When traveling long distances, it’s more likely something will shift or be damaged during transport. Never assume insurance is included.
When hiring:
- Confirm coverage for your cargo
- Ask for proof of liability coverage
- Ask how claims are made.
Mistake 5: Booking Too Close to Move Date
When you are moving across provinces, scheduling is important. If you book at the last minute, you’ll have fewer options and pay more for the last-minute booking.
Smart scheduling tips:
- Book four to six weeks out
- Don’t book at the end of the month
- Check to see if there are flexible windows for prompting delivery
Mistake 6: Not Checking What Services Are Included
There are moving companies that just load and haul; others offer full packing service, set up, and storage. If you’re not clear on what services are included, your final bill may increase.
Ask if:
- Packing materials are included
- Furniture assembly is available
- Appliances can be handled by the movers
- They have storage if you need it.
If you need help after you arrive, Alberta Strong Movers also offers residential moving services in Calgary to help you settle into your new home.
Mistake 7: Skipping the Contract
Look out for unexpected fees, which tack on an extra charge in the fine print. Key items to search for are cancellation terms, timelines for the width of booking, and payment terms.
Red Flags:
- Deposits that seem high
- Unclear valuation and pricing
- Complications when it is time to claim
- If you are pressured to only book with them on the spot
By avoiding these mistakes, you will stay organized, your belongings will be protected, and you will be on the safest method for staying within your budget. Alberta Strong Movers is equipped to support your move with fair and accurate pricing, cooperative communication with clients and customers, and a professional long-distance moving service.
