Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Local Moving Company in Ottawa

Hiring a moving company might seem straightforward until you’re standing in your kitchen surrounded by boxes, wondering why nobody told you the crew charges extra for stairs or that your antiques weren’t covered by insurance.

If you're planning a move within Ottawa, it's a good idea to do some research. Asking the right questions upfront can save you headaches, hidden fees, and a great deal of stress on moving days. Here are the most important things to ask before signing any contract.

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Are You Fully Licensed and Insured in Ontario?

Don't hesitate to ask for proof. A reputable local moving company will gladly provide their Ontario CVOR (Commercial Vehicle Operator's Registration) and insurance documents.

Why does this matter? Because accidents happen. Whether it’s a dented wall or a scratched hardwood floor, you’ll want to know the company is insured to handle any mishaps and that your belongings are protected every step of the way.

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What's Included in the Estimate?

An estimate isn’t worth much if you don’t understand what it covers. Does it include packing supplies, fuel charges, or the time it takes to disassemble furniture? Are there additional fees for long carries or tight staircases?

Get a clear picture in writing. Some companies offer an hourly rate, while others provide a flat rate based on an in-home assessment. Each has pros and cons, but the key is to avoid surprises when the bill arrives.

If you're still in the early planning stages, check out these common mistakes to stay organized: Avoid These Common Moving Mistakes and Save Your Sanity.

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How Do You Handle Specialty Items?

Not every move is as simple as boxes and couches. If you have antiques, a piano, or oversized art, ask whether the movers have the experience and proper equipment to handle them.

Reputable Ottawa movers should be able to explain how they'll wrap, load, and secure delicate or high-value items. If they're vague, keep looking.

Can You Provide References from Local Ottawa Moves?

Any trustworthy moving company should be able to provide you with recent references or direct you to online reviews from customers who have moved within Ottawa. Look for consistency in comments about punctuality, care in handling belongings, and transparency in pricing.

What’s Your Cancellation or Rescheduling Policy?

Life happens. Sometimes, closing dates change, or renovations get delayed. Before you lock anything in, ask what happens if you need to adjust your move by a few days. Will there be penalties? Can you transfer your deposit?

Knowing this ahead of time takes a lot of stress off your plate if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Do You Offer Local Move-Specific Services?

Ottawa isn’t just any city. From ByWard Market’s narrow lanes to Kanata’s sprawling suburbs, local experience matters. Companies familiar with Ottawa can navigate tight downtown streets or time loading to avoid rush-hour bottlenecks on the Queensway.

For more on tailored local services, take a look at how a dedicated Ottawa team can make your move smoother: Local Move Services.

Bottom Line: The More You Ask, the Better Your Move

Choosing a moving company shouldn’t be a leap of faith. By asking these questions now, you’re setting yourself up for a move that’s clear, predictable, and a lot less stressful. And when moving day finally arrives, you’ll be able to focus on the excitement of your new home, not worrying about who’s hauling your boxes.

If you’re starting to plan your Ottawa move and want a team that ticks all these boxes, reach out to Upmove. We’re always happy to answer your questions so you can feel confident every step of the way.