Guide to Understanding Moving Company Contracts

Hiring a moving company in Toronto can significantly simplify the moving process, especially as many people relocate for various reasons. In fact, research shows that a large percentage of movers (70.6%) provided a single reason for their decision to move, with 28.0% seeking bigger or better housing and 16.8% looking for a more desirable neighbourhood. 

Understanding the contract before signing is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition, as it serves to protect both the customer and the moving company by clearly outlining the services, costs, and responsibilities involved in the moving process.

What to Look for in a Contract with a Moving Company in Toronto

When working with a moving company in Toronto, there are specific details to check before signing the contract. Toronto has its own challenges when it comes to moving, including traffic, parking regulations, and demand based on the season. It’s important to carefully read the contract to ensure that it addresses your specific needs and includes all necessary details.

• Service Coverage

Make sure the contract includes a clear description of what services the moving company will provide. Toronto's congested streets and strict parking rules might mean you need additional services like long carry or parking permits, so confirm if these are included.

• Special Considerations for Toronto

Moving in a busy city requires attention to timing and logistics. Ensure the contract addresses any specific concerns like navigating narrow streets or arranging for building access if you're in a high-rise.

• Clear Communication

The contract should clearly list any additional services offered by the moving company. Be sure to ask about any extra fees for services such as storage or packing.

• Flexibility in Services

Look for details about the flexibility of services offered by the moving company. For example, inquire whether the contract allows for changes in the scope of work, such as adding or removing services as your moving date approaches. This can be important if your plans change or if you need to adjust your moving timeline.

• Delivery Timelines

Ensure that the contract specifies delivery timelines for your belongings. A clear outline of when you can expect your items to arrive can help you plan your new home and avoid unnecessary stress. It's also important to ask how the moving company handles delays and what recourse you have if your belongings do not arrive as scheduled.

Key Elements of a Moving Company Contract

Understanding the key parts of a moving contract will help you avoid surprises. Contracts generally outline the services, costs, liability, and payment terms. Let’s break down the most important elements to look for.

• Service Details and Scope of Work

The moving service details section specifies what exactly the moving company will do for you. It should include everything from packing and loading to transporting and unloading your belongings. Make sure any additional services you requested, like storage or furniture assembly, are also included in writing.

• Rates and Payment Terms

This part of the contract explains how much you'll pay and when. Some moving companies charge by the hour, while others offer flat rates. Be sure you understand the terms of payment, including any required deposit, when the final payment is due, and whether additional charges could apply.

• Liability and Insurance

It's crucial to understand what happens if your belongings get damaged during the move. The contract should outline the type of liability coverage the moving company provides. Many moving companies offer two options: full value protection, which covers the full replacement cost, and released value protection, which covers a minimal amount.

• Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies

Life can be unpredictable, so it’s important to know what will happen if you need to cancel or reschedule your move. Most moving companies have a cancellation policy that may include fees if you cancel too close to the moving date. Rescheduling may be possible, but check the terms to avoid any additional charges.

• Dispute Resolution Clauses

If something goes wrong, the contract should outline how disputes will be handled. Many contracts include clauses for mediation or arbitration, which are common methods for resolving issues between customers and moving companies. Make sure you know the steps to take if you encounter a problem with the move.

Be Wary of Common Fraudulent Moving Company Scams

In 2021, Ontario's Ministry of Government and Consumer Services received 59 complaints about moving companies, up from 36 in 2020. At least 24 of these complaints involved a group of companies under investigation.

To investigate these companies' practices, a CBC Marketplace producer went undercover as a customer of Roadway Moving, hiring them to move a one-bedroom apartment from Toronto to Sudbury, Ontario.

The investigation revealed issues similar to those reported by former customers, who claimed they received a quote based on estimated weight but felt pressured to sign a new, higher contract on moving day after paying a non-refundable $200 deposit.

After the movers left, customers received an invoice for a higher total, with some reporting that their belongings were withheld until the new price was paid.

Nancy Irvine, president of the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM), labeled this as "the scam of the season" and noted a significant number of complaints related to the companies under investigation. CAM, which does not certify these companies, warned consumers about them on its alerts page in June 2021.

Final Checklist Before Signing the Moving Company Contract

Before you sign, double-check the contract to make sure everything is in order. Here’s a quick checklist of what to verify:

• Service Details

Ensure that all services provided by the moving company are clearly listed in the contract. This includes any additional requests you may have, such as packing or storage, to avoid misunderstandings later.

• Payment Terms

Confirm the total cost of your move, along with any required deposits and due dates for payments. Understanding these terms will help you plan your budget and avoid any surprises when it's time to pay.

• Liability Coverage

Make sure that the insurance and liability coverage offered by the moving company align with your expectations. Knowing what is covered will give you peace of mind about your belongings during the move.

• Cancellation Policies

Review the cancellation and rescheduling terms in the contract to avoid unexpected fees. Understanding these policies will help you manage your plans and costs if your moving date changes.

Trust Advance Moving for Clear Contracts

For a smooth and stress-free move, trust the experts at Advance Moving. Our team ensures that every detail of your contract is clear, with no hidden fees or surprises. Reach out today to get a personalized moving plan that meets your needs. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, our top-rated moving company in Toronto is here to make the process easier. Call us today at (437) 989-7726 to request a moving quote.