Hiring A Mover

Spring is in the air and homeowners are on the move. If you are in the market to hire a moving company, it pays to know your rights.

Consumer Protection Ontario recommends getting at least three written estimates before choosing a mover. Once you’ve narrowed it down, make sure the estimate is part of the contract. This way, the mover cannot charge you more than 10% above the estimated cost unless you have agreed to a new service or a new price, or signed a change to your contract

Under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) all contracts over $50 must be in writing and should include the mover’s name and address, a description of services and charges, terms of payment, start and end dates, total price, additional charges that may apply and taxes.

Your contract should also include:

• the size and value of the items
• who is responsible for any damage or loss
• an estimate of the number of boxes or items that will be moved
• who is responsible for packing
• the type of packing containers that will be used
• the number of staff, the number of hours and size of the vehicle(s) that will be needed
• any licences or customs documents that may be needed to cross a border
• the name of the person who holds the policy to any insured items

Courtesy: Homeservice Club