The Best Way to Move Cross Country: The Ultimate Canadian Guide

Planning a cross-country move in Canada can be daunting, but selecting the most suitable way to complete your long distance move is the first step towards a succesful relocation! 

If you are worried, we are here to provide 8 essential tips that will help you make sure you choose the best way move across country. Plus, we’ll highlight how Burly Boyz Storage and Moving Company can simplify the process with our hassle-free moving experience.

This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know—whether you’re looking for the best way to move cross country, the cheapest option, or figuring out how much it might cost.

1. Create a Moving Plan Early

Planning is crucial when renting a moving truck for a cross-country move in Canada. Securing your vehicle early and preparing your move in advance can save you time, money, and stress.

The best way to move cross country is to start planning well in advance. Give yourself at least 8–12 weeks before your moving date to:

• Set a moving budget
• Compare long-distance movers
• Decide what to take, sell, or donate
• Research cross-province moving laws

By starting early, you avoid rushed decisions and benefit from early booking discounts.

Before booking your truck, taking a detailed inventory of your belongings is essential. Creating a comprehensive list of all the items you plan to move, including furniture, appliances, and packed boxes, helps determine the appropriate truck size.

Knowing the volume and weight of your items is crucial for selecting the right truck. An accurate inventory prevents overestimating or underestimating the space required, ensuring that your belongings fit comfortably without overloading the car.

This step helps you choose the correct truck size and organize your move more efficiently, reducing the chances of last-minute surprises.

Why Burly Boyz Is the Best Choice for Long Distance Moves

At Burly Boyz Storage and Moving Company, we understand the importance of planning for a cross-country move. That’s why we offer discounts for early reservations, helping you save money while ensuring you get the perfect truck for your move.

Our easy-to-use online reservation system allows you to book your vehicle well in advance with just a few clicks.

Additionally, our team can assist you in creating a detailed inventory and selecting the right truck size based on your specific needs. By choosing Burly Boyz, you can take advantage of our cost-saving offers and professional guidance, making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

2. Choose the Right Moving Method

When considering how to move cross country, there are three primary options:

• Hire a full-service moving company: Stress-free and time-saving
• Rent a moving truck: Ideal for DIY movers with time and muscle
• Use a moving container service: A hybrid of cost and convenience

Each option varies in cost and effort, so weigh your priorities.

If You’re Renting a Moving Truck for a Cross-Country Move in Canada

Renting a moving truck for a cross-country move in Canada can be a cost-effective option—but only if you choose the right size and plan carefully.

Know Your Truck Sizes

Rental trucks typically range from 10 to 26 feet in length. A 10-foot truck is best for small studio moves, while 15- and 20-foot trucks suit two- to three-bedroom homes. If you’re moving a full house or a large apartment, a 26-foot truck is usually the right choice. Understanding the truck’s cubic capacity helps ensure all your belongings fit safely and securely.

Estimate Your Load Before Booking

Before locking in your rental, create an inventory of everything you plan to move—furniture, appliances, boxes, and more. Many moving companies offer online calculators to help you match your load to the right truck size. Here’s a rough guide:

• 10-foot truck: 400 cubic feet

• 15-foot truck: 800 cubic feet

• 20-foot truck: 1,000 cubic feet

• 26-foot truck: 1,400 cubic feet

Getting the size right can save you from the stress of repacking—or worse, making a second trip.

Don’t Risk Overloading

It’s tempting to try and fit everything into a smaller truck, but overloading can lead to poor handling, higher fuel costs, and potential damage to your items. It’s safer—and more efficient—to rent a truck that gives you a bit of breathing room.

3. Know the Cost to Move Cross Country

If you’re wondering how much it will cost to move cross crountry, well the answer depends on many factors, including these ones: 

• Distance and destination
• Volume of belongings
• Additional services (Packing, storage, etc…)
• Time of the Year (Summer usually is more expensive) 

For an estmitated quot of how much it costs to move a 1-bedroom apartment cross country in Cananada, feel free to contact us directly and get a free quote! 

Understanding your expenses is essential for a smooth move. At Burly Boyz Moving & Storage, we ensure complete transparency—so you’ll know exactly what to expect when relocating with our professional movers.

 

4. Pack With Purpose: Never Overpack for a Cross Country Move

When you’re moving across Canada, every pound matters—literally. It’s important to strike a balance between taking what you truly value and avoiding unnecessary weight that can drive up your costs.

Start by reviewing what you actually use and appreciate. That bookshelf you haven’t touched in years or the stack of mismatched dishes? It might be time to let them go. Sell, donate, or recycle anything that doesn’t serve a purpose in your new home.

The fewer items you bring, the lower your final bill will be; especially if you’re calculating the cost to move 1 bedroom apartment cross country, where every extra box can tip the scale.

5. Compare Moving Quotes and Understand Insurance Coverage

When planning a cross-country move in Canada, getting the best value without sacrificing security is all about doing your homework. Start by requesting quotes from at least three reputable long-distance moving companies. Pay close attention to what each quote includes—especially when it comes to services, mileage, and potential hidden fees. Transparency, customer reviews, and company credentials can help you spot trustworthy movers.

But comparing prices is only part of the equation. You also need to understand the insurance coverage being offered. Some companies include only basic liability, which may not fully cover the value of your belongings. Look into full-value protection or third-party insurance options if you’re moving high-value items or want extra peace of mind.

By comparing quotes and understanding your insurance options, you’re not just finding the cheapest way to move cross country—you’re protecting your investment and ensuring a smoother, safer relocation.

6. Use Strategic Packing Techniques to Save Space and Money

Packing smart isn’t just about keeping your items safe. We can say it’s a major factor in reducing the overall cost of your cross-country move. Every extra box adds weight and volume, which can increase your final bill significantly. That’s why using space-saving, protective packing methods is one of the best ways to lower your costs and simplify your move.

• Start with the basics: pack heavier items like books, tools, and canned goods in smaller boxes. This makes them easier to carry and prevents boxes from collapsing or becoming hazardous to lift. Lighter items such as linens, pillows, and clothing can go in larger boxes without exceeding weight limits.
• Use your soft items strategically: Towels, blankets, and clothing can double as padding for fragile items. Wrap glassware, ceramics, and electronics with these soft goods to reduce your need for bubble wrap or packing paper while also maximizing box space. This not only protects your valuables but also cuts down on packing material costs.
• Label every box clearly with its destination room and a brief list of contents: Color-coding or using a numbering system can streamline the unpacking process and help your movers know exactly where each box belongs. If you’re using a moving company, this also minimizes delays and confusion during unloading.

Don’t forget to pack an essentials box with everything you’ll need immediately upon arrival. Keeping this separate ensures you won’t have to dig through dozens of boxes to find the basics.

If you’re moving on your own or renting a truck, plan how the boxes will be loaded. Distribute weight evenly, placing heavy boxes at the bottom and fragile ones on top. This ensures better balance during transit and prevents breakage.

7. Stay Flexible with Your Moving Date to Cut Cross-Country Costs

When you’re planning a move across Canada, timing can have a major impact on your budget—and flexibility is one of your strongest tools for finding the cheapest way to move cross country without compromising quality. While many people plan their moves around lease end dates or job start times, even a few days’ shift can result in substantial savings.

Why does timing matter so much? Moving companies experience high demand at the end of the month, on weekends, and during the summer. These peak periods drive up prices due to limited availability. 

Another benefit of a flexible timeline is greater control over logistics. When you’re not bound by tight deadlines, you can book services further in advance, compare more quotes, and secure the most affordable cross-country movers without having to settle for what’s available last-minute. You’ll also have time to take advantage of bundled services, like packing, storage, or insurance, at promotional rates.

Being flexible can also help with truck rentals and fuel efficiency. For example, you might find a better deal on a rental if you’re open to shifting your departure or return date. Similarly, avoiding high-traffic periods may reduce fuel costs and make the journey smoother and faster.

In short, if you’re serious about finding the cheapest way to move cross country, consider your dates just as carefully as your packing or route. A little flexibility can go a long way in saving you money and making the entire experience far less stressful.

8. Work with Long Distance Movers in Canada You Can Trust

The final and most important tip for a successful cross-country move is simple: don’t do it alone. Partnering with experienced long distance movers in Canada can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run.

When you hire a trusted team like Burly Boyz Moving & Storage, you’re getting more than just a truck and a couple of hands. You’re gaining access to professional packing services, transparent pricing, and nationwide logistics support designed to simplify every step of your journey. From your first quote to the moment your last box is unloaded, seasoned movers know how to navigate the unique challenges that come with relocating across provinces.

A professional team understands how to handle fragile items, bulky furniture, unpredictable weather, and regional moving regulations. Plus, they’re equipped with the right tools and training to pack efficiently, load safely, and transport your belongings with care. That level of service is essential when you’re covering hundreds or even thousands of kilometers.

Burly Boyz is known for delivering dependable service from coast to coast. Whether you’re moving from Vancouver to Halifax or anywhere in between, their focus is on making your move seamless, organized, and fully supported.

If you’re looking for peace of mind and a smoother relocation, working with trusted long distance movers in Canada like Burly Boyz is the smartest move you can make.