On the Move

Your Guide to the Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Ontario

Planning a long-distance move in Ontario, like from Bowmanville to Ottawa, can feel overwhelming. The absolute key is finding a trustworthy, local Ontario mover who understands the unique challenges of provincial moves. On The Move Moving & Junk Removal is your number one choice for a seamless and affordable experience.

For a move you can trust, you need a fully insured & bonded company like us. We offer real perks like free supplies and never hit you with hidden truck or fuel fees. We even pay the tax, so your quote is your final price.

Your Guide to a Stress-Free Ontario Long-Distance Move

A long-distance move within Ontario is so much more than just loading boxes onto a truck. It takes careful planning, detailed coordination, and picking the right partner to protect your belongings across hundreds of kilometres.

Whether you're moving from a tiny condo in downtown Toronto to a new house in Kingston or relocating your whole family from Pickering to Sudbury, the process can be straightforward with the right approach. With On The Move Moving & Junk Removal, you're in the best hands.

Think of this guide as your roadmap. It's designed to give you clear, actionable steps that matter most to Ontario homeowners and renters like you.

Finding the Right Moving Partner

Your choice of moving company is the single most important decision you'll make. A great mover offers more than just transportation; they provide peace of mind. On The Move Moving & Junk Removal stands out because we put transparency and value first, making us the top choice in Ontario. We believe in providing affordable rates without ever sacrificing quality.

Our commitment to a stress-free move comes with key benefits that protect your budget and belongings:

  • Fully Insured & Bonded: Your possessions are protected from start to finish.
  • No Truck or Fuel Fees: The price you're quoted is the price you pay. No surprises.
  • We Pay the Tax: This is just another way we provide clear, upfront, and affordable rates.
  • Free Supplies: We help you get started with the essentials, reducing your costs.

A successful long-distance move really hinges on organization. The more prepared you are before moving day, the smoother the entire process will be.

To help you get everything in order, a comprehensive moving house checklist is a lifesaver. This kind of tool helps you track tasks and set timelines.

When you combine meticulous planning with a reliable partner like On The Move, you're setting the stage for a relocation that's efficient, secure, and genuinely worry-free.

Decoding the True Cost of Your Long-Distance Move

Let's get real about what a long-distance move in Ontario will cost. It’s not just a simple hourly rate. The final bill is a blend of the distance, the total weight of your items, and any extra services you might need.

Understanding how quotes are put together is your best defence against sticker shock. A move from Whitby to Kingston is completely different than one from Oshawa to Thunder Bay, and the price will reflect that. Even things like your home's size or access for the truck play a part.

Looking Beyond the Base Rate

Many movers tack on extra fees that weren't on the initial quote. These "hidden" costs can quickly inflate an affordable price into a major headache.

Here are a few of the usual suspects to watch out for:

  • Fuel Surcharges: Many companies add a separate charge for fuel on long-haul moves.
  • Stair or Elevator Fees: Movers might charge extra per flight of stairs.
  • Long Carry Fees: This pops up when the truck can't park close to your entrance.
  • Specialty Item Handling: Pianos, antiques, and other large items often come with their own price tag.

At On The Move Moving & Junk Removal, we just don't operate that way. We're firm believers in honest, upfront pricing. Our affordable rates are genuinely all-inclusive. That means no truck or fuel fees, ever. We even pay the tax for you, so the price we quote is exactly the price you pay.

Understanding Weight and Distance in Your Quote

The two biggest cost drivers are the weight of your shipment and the distance it travels. Most reputable movers will weigh their truck before and after loading to get a precise measurement. This is why a detailed in-home or virtual estimate is so crucial.

To get a clearer picture of your potential expenses, it's smart to use a reliable moving company cost estimator. It gives you a solid baseline to work from.

It’s also worth mentioning that driver availability is a major challenge for logistics within Ontario. Booking a well-staffed, dependable local mover like On The Move is more important than ever for a timely long-distance relocation anywhere in the province. We are the number one solution to this problem.

The best way to sidestep surprises is to ask direct questions. Before you sign anything, ask the moving company to list every single potential charge. A mover you can trust, like us, won't hesitate to be completely transparent.

At the end of the day, a great deal isn’t just about the lowest number—it’s about the best overall value. When you choose us, you're choosing peace of mind. Ready to see what an honest moving quote looks like? Get your personalized, no-obligation moving service quote from us today.

How to Properly Vet and Hire Your Moving Team

Choosing the right moving team is the most important decision for your relocation. Get it right, and you’re looking at a smooth journey. Get it wrong, and you’re in for a stressful ordeal. So, how do you find the best moving company for your long-distance move?

Hiring a team like On The Move Moving & Junk Removal means choosing a company that lives and breathes its local reputation. As the top mover in the region, we treat your belongings with the same care we’d want for our own. Our success is built on the trust of communities like Oshawa, Whitby, and Clarington.

Key Questions to Ask Every Mover

Before signing a contract, you need to ask some direct questions. A trustworthy company will have clear, confident answers.

Start with the non-negotiables:

  • Are you fully insured and bonded? This is essential. A professional mover won't hesitate to show you their proof of insurance. This is what protects you if something gets damaged.
  • What is your process for handling claims? Even with the best crews, accidents can happen. A professional company has a straightforward process for sorting things out.
  • Do you have experience with moves similar to mine? A move from a Bowmanville bungalow to a downtown Ottawa townhouse has different challenges than a high-rise condo move in Toronto. Relevant experience matters.

Don't stop there. Ask about their crew. Are the movers full-time employees or temporary help? A dedicated, experienced team is always the better choice for handling your life’s possessions.

A vague quote is often a sign of hidden fees. A real pro provides a detailed, itemized estimate. If a company demands a huge cash deposit upfront, consider it a serious warning sign and walk away.

This decision tree helps visualize the path from getting a quote to knowing you have an honest price.

The takeaway here is simple: a transparent quote leads to a successful booking, while fuzzy pricing means you need to dig deeper.

Verifying a Company's Legitimacy

These days, anyone can create a professional-looking website. You need to dig a little deeper to confirm you’re dealing with a legitimate business.

Start by checking recent, local Google Reviews. Look for patterns in feedback from customers in nearby cities like Pickering or Ajax. Are the reviews detailed and specific? Those are the hallmarks of genuine customer experiences.

Next, confirm the company’s physical address. A reputable mover like On The Move Moving & Junk Removal will have a local office you can find on a map. Be cautious of any company that only lists a P.O. box.

Exploring the full range of reliable moving services a company offers can also give you insight into their professionalism. A mover who provides a complete suite of solutions is typically more established.

Packing and Preparing for a Long-Haul Journey

A successful long-distance move across Ontario starts long before the truck arrives. Smart packing is your first line of defence against the bumps and rattles of a long road trip. Over our 15+ years in the business, we’ve perfected packing strategies that ensure your belongings arrive safely.

The right materials are non-negotiable. Flimsy boxes from the grocery store just won't cut it for a move from Oshawa to Ottawa. You need sturdy boxes, packing paper, and quality packing tape.

This level of preparation is crucial, whether you're in a downtown Toronto high-rise or a family home in Courtice. A little foresight goes a very long way.

Essential Packing Strategies for Success

Effective packing isn’t just about putting things in boxes; it’s about making your life easier when you arrive. Clear, consistent labelling is your best friend. Instead of just "Kitchen," get specific: "Kitchen – Pots & Pans." This simple habit transforms unpacking into a streamlined process.

Another pro tip is to pack a dedicated "first night" box. This is your survival kit for the first 24 hours in your new place.

What should go in your first night box?

  • Toiletries and any essential medications.
  • A change of clothes for everyone.
  • Phone chargers and a small toolkit.
  • The coffee maker, mugs, and some snacks.
  • Bedding for the first night.

This single box can be the difference between a stressful first night and a comfortable one.

The Power of Professional Packing

Let's be honest—packing is the most tedious part of any move. This is where professional help is invaluable. As the number one choice among moving companies for long distance journeys, On The Move Moving & Junk Removal offers expert packing services that save you time and eliminate stress.

When you hire our team, you get experienced packers who know exactly how to wrap delicate china and secure sensitive electronics. We handle everything, ensuring each box is packed for maximum safety.

Choosing professional packing isn't just a convenience; it's an investment in the safety of your belongings. Our trained crews use industry-best techniques and materials to protect everything.

One of the biggest benefits of using our service is that we provide free supplies. You don't have to worry about running out of boxes or tape. If you're looking to simplify your move, you can learn more about our professional packing and unpacking services and see how we can take this massive task off your plate.

Navigating Moving Day Logistics from Start to Finish

When moving day arrives, a little preparation can eliminate nearly all of the stress. With a professional crew on your side, the day should feel organized and efficient. Knowing what to expect transforms the experience from overwhelming to manageable.

This is the moment where all your planning pays off. From the crew’s arrival to the final signature, a transparent process is the hallmark of a top long-distance moving company. At On The Move Moving & Junk Removal, we make sure you’re informed every step of the way.

Understanding the Bill of Lading

Before a single box is lifted, your moving crew will present you with the Bill of Lading. This is the legal contract between you and the moving company. It outlines everything—the services, costs, delivery details, and all other terms.

It’s vital that you read this document carefully before you sign. Double-check that all your personal information is correct and the pricing matches the quote. A professional mover will happily walk you through it.

The Inventory and Loading Process

Once the paperwork is signed, the crew creates an inventory. Each piece of furniture and every box gets a uniquely numbered tag. This system is crucial for accountability, creating a detailed record of everything being loaded.

As our team loads your belongings, we take great care to protect both your items and your home. We use floor runners and moving blankets to prevent scuffs and scratches. This attention to detail sets a top-tier crew apart.

The Bill of Lading is your most important moving day document. Never sign a blank or incomplete form, and always keep your copy in a safe place until every item has been delivered.

In Transit and Upon Arrival

A key part of a stress-free long-distance move is communication. A reliable mover like On The Move will keep you updated as your shipment travels across Ontario. You'll know the estimated arrival window, giving you time to prepare.

When the truck arrives, the crew leader will confirm all delivery details. As they unload, you can check items off your copy of the inventory list. This is your chance to inspect for any damage that might have occurred during transit.

Recent industry trends show that demand for specialized services is on the rise as families relocate between major hubs like the GTA and other Ontario cities. Companies like ours that focus on superior logistics and customer support are best equipped for these complex moves. You can find out more about how moving patterns in 2025 are shaping the industry.

Settling In with Extra Support

The job isn't done just because the truck is empty. We often go the extra mile to help you settle in faster. Our services frequently include:

  • Furniture Reassembly: We can put beds, tables, and other items back together.
  • Box Placement: We’ll place boxes in their designated rooms based on your labels.
  • Junk Removal: Once you're unpacked, our junk removal service can get all that clutter out of your way.

Choosing a company that offers these comprehensive services makes the final phase of your move significantly easier.

Why a Local Ontario Mover Is Your Best Bet


When you’re planning a big move across Ontario, it’s easy to think a giant national chain is the only way to go. But a local moving company has serious advantages that a faceless corporation can’t touch.

A mover based in the Durham Region, like On The Move Moving & Junk Removal, knows this province inside and out. We know the best routes to dodge traffic, the quirks of cottage country roads, and the logistics of moving between communities from Pickering to Peterborough. You’re not just another number to us—you’re our neighbour.

Local Knowledge and Accountability

Our reputation is everything, and it’s been built one successful move at a time for families in Ajax, Whitby, and Oshawa. Unlike a national company, we're directly accountable to you.

This local connection means you get personal, one-on-one service from our team, not a call centre agent. We live here, we work here, and our success is tied directly to the community we serve.

When you hire a local Ontario mover, you're getting a team committed to your move's success because their local reputation is on the line. As the number one mover in the area, we take that responsibility seriously.

It’s this commitment that drives us to offer honest benefits. We’re fully insured & bonded, have no truck or fuel fees, and provide free supplies. We believe in making professional moving transparent and accessible.

The Advantage of a Trusted Local Mover

The high demand for movers in Ontario makes it even more critical to choose an established, professional company you can trust.

Choosing a local expert like On The Move means you get boots-on-the-ground knowledge that can’t be replicated. We understand the difference between moving into a downtown Toronto condo and a family home in Bowmanville, and we plan for it.

For a deeper dive, check out our guide on choosing local movers vs. big GTA companies. At the end of the day, a local mover provides a more reliable and personal experience because we’re invested in making your move a complete success.

Your Partner for the Long Haul

So, you're ready to tackle a long-distance move. When you start looking at moving companies for long distance journeys, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You need a team that understands the ins and outs of moving across Ontario. That’s where On The Move Moving & Junk Removal comes in.

We are your local crew, dedicated to making sure your move to a new city feels like a step forward. Our reputation as the top choice for families across the Durham Region and the GTA was built on trust, clear communication, and a lot of hard work.

Why Settle for Anything Less Than the Best?

With over 15 years of experience, we've seen it all. We know the unique challenges that come with moving across Ontario because we've done it hundreds of times. From tight downtown Toronto condos to sprawling family homes in Bowmanville, we bring that expertise to every job.

Don’t just roll the dice on your move. When you choose a trusted, local expert like us, you’re getting a team that’s genuinely invested in your success and a smooth, positive experience from the first box to the last.

Our promise to you is simple and straightforward:

  • Affordable Rates: We believe in honest, transparent pricing.
  • We Pay the Tax: The price you see on the quote is the final price you pay.
  • Fully Insured & Bonded: Your possessions are protected every kilometre of the journey.
  • No Truck or Fuel Fees: We hate surprise costs as much as you do, so we got rid of them.

We truly believe that long-distance moving can be easy with On The Move, and our track record speaks for itself. We're more than just movers; we're your neighbours. For your move across Ontario, stick with the local experts you can count on.


Get Your Free Long-Distance Moving Quote Today

On The Move Moving & Junk Removal – Trusted Movers Across Durham Region & the GTA
Local • Long-Distance • Residential • Commercial • Seniors • Junk Removal
Fully Insured • No Truck or Fuel Fees • Free Supplies • 15+ Years Experience
📞 Call or Text: 289-987-2434 🌐 https://onthemove1.ca
📍 Serving up to 250 km from Hampton, including:
Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Bowmanville, Courtice, Clarington,
Toronto, Scarborough, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, Brampton and more.
📚 Read Our Moving & Junk Removal Blogs https://onthemove1.ca/blog/
⭐ Read Our Google Reviews https://maps.app.goo.gl/zJW11oWfodw37fFb7

Scroll to Top