Huge increase in Canadians leaving large cities for cheaper rents and bigger homes sees demand for movers increase by 30% says SimpleMoves.ca

2020 has been a bumper year for moving companies in Canada. While other businesses cope with lockdowns, plunging revenues, and unsure futures, professional moving companies have seen a spike in demand and are having trouble keeping up with Canadians looking for a change. In the ten years that Simple Moves, a specialist relocation and moving company has been in business, demand has never been so great. The company estimates that 2020 has seen a 30 per cent increase in business over previous years.

“Several factors led to the increase in people moving,” explains Jani Párkányi, business developer at SimpleMoves.ca. “The main reason Canadians are moving seems to be the ability to work remotely. There’s no reason to pay big rents or mortgages in Toronto or Vancouver if you don’t have to be in a downtown office. With so many working from home, people are also looking for more room in which to live. The micro-condo that seemed like a bargain is no longer appealing when you can’t go to the office or out to the shops. Older Canadians are also playing a significant role in the increased demand. Many parents stayed in larger cities to be close to their kids who were going to post-secondary. With schools like the University of Alberta only doing 11 per cent of their classes in person, both the kids and parents can move home. The snowbirds who usually leave in the winter are also playing a role as they’re now all looking for a longer-term home in a warmer climate, like that of the Okanagan.”

Another unique aspect that movers are seeing this year is the increased demand for professional movers. While DIY projects have been popular throughout the pandemic, Párkányi has found that people are far less keen on the DIY move this year than in previous years. With individuals already experiencing increased stress and anxiety, the chaos of a DIY move, forgotten boxes, damaged furniture, and back injuries has been an unappealing prospect.

“In years prior, it was easy to ask friends to help you move,” explains Párkányi. “Now, friends are in isolation, there are regulations against people gathering with non-family members. If the move is a long-haul one, there are fewer roadside restaurants open and reduced hours at amenities along the way. It’s quite daunting to manage on your own.”

Pre-planning is a huge factor for those moving in 2020. With all of the changes, regulations, and distanced or contactless moves, Canadians need to hire professionals who are insured, have experience working during the pandemic, will follow sanitization procedures, and have their own equipment so there is no risk of van rental companies or store closures impacting the move. Purchasing specialty moving boxes is also important this year, as many stores aren’t allowing individuals to have second-hand boxes due to the increased risk of contact. With the increase in demand for movers, Párkányi recommends hiring a moving company 30-45 days in advance and being packed and ready to go at least three days prior to the move, allowing plenty of time to clean apartments and homes prior to any inspections or take-over walkthroughs.

“Check out the reviews of any company you hire,” encourages Párkányi. “You want to make sure that not only will your stuff be safe, but you won’t be paying more than the price you were quoted. We provide unparalleled service and transparent billing, and that’s why we have five-star ratings from hundreds of people. An unexpected bill or a huge amount of stress is the last thing any of us needs this year.”

For more information about Simple Moves or for tips on how to plan a move during the pandemic, visit www.simplemoves.ca.

To connect with Simple Moves on social media, visit Facebook or Instagram @SimpleMoves.ca.

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