The Best Time to Move in Ontario

If your dates are flexible, choosing the right moving day can make your move easier to book and often less expensive. Here's what to consider.

Best season to move

Late spring to the end of summer is moving season across Canada. Families move between school years, leases turn over and student housing changes hands. Demand is highest from May to September, so book early if you need a summer date.

Fall and winter are quieter, which means more flexible scheduling. Winter moves in Ontario need a little more preparation — clear walkways, protect floors from salt and slush, and allow extra driving time.

Best day of the month

Most leases in Ontario start on the first of the month, so the last few days of each month and the first day of the next are the busiest. If you can, aim for the middle of the month.

Best day of the week

Weekdays are generally easier to book than weekends. Fridays and Saturdays fill up first. A mid-week morning start also means lighter traffic and easier elevator bookings in condo buildings.

Student moving seasons

University towns such as Kingston, Waterloo, London, Ottawa, Guelph, Hamilton and St. Catharines get very busy at the end of April and the start of September — as does downtown Toronto. If you're not a student, avoid those weeks in those cities. Faculty and departments relocating offices can see our university moving services.

Notice periods for renters

Before picking a date, check how much notice you must give your landlord. In Ontario, tenants on a monthly lease generally give at least 60 days' written notice. Check your lease and Ontario's official tenancy resources for the rules that apply to you.

Can't choose your date? Our last minute movers and emergency moving crews can often help within 24–48 hours.