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Condo and apartment moves in London have unique rules around elevators, parking, and building access. Here's what you need to know before moving day.
Book the Elevator BEFORE You Book Movers
This is the #1 most important step for condo moves — and one that gets skipped constantly.
Most London condo buildings have only one service elevator, and it must be reserved in advance. Buildings near Western University, downtown, or White Oaks book up weeks ahead.
How to book:
- Call your building's property manager or superintendent
- Book for a 3–4 hour window
- Confirm whether there's a moving deposit (common: $200–$500 refundable)
- Get the reservation in writing
What happens if you don't book: Your movers arrive, another tenant is using the elevator, and you're waiting — at $160–$190/hour.
Parking for the Moving Truck
A professional moving truck is 16–26 feet long. In London's downtown, Old North, and university areas, parking is often a challenge.
- Ask your building manager where moving trucks are allowed to park
- If street parking is required, check if you need a City of London permit (519-661-2489)
- Alert your movers about parking challenges when you book
What to Tell Your Building Management
Notify your property manager at least 2 weeks before your move:
- Moving date and approximate time
- Elevator reservation
- Entry/exit door you'll be using
Timing Your Apartment Move
Avoid these high-conflict times:
- Last day of the month — every London apartment has the same lease end date
- September 1st — London's busiest moving day (student leases)
- Weekends at popular buildings
Best times:
- Mid-month Tuesday–Thursday
- Morning start (8–9 AM) before the building gets busy
Moving Day Checklist for Condos
- [ ] Elevator booked and confirmed in writing
- [ ] Building deposit paid
- [ ] Parking arranged for the truck
- [ ] Keys/fob/access code confirmed
- [ ] Internet installation booked (Rogers/Bell need building access)
- [ ] Building hours for moving confirmed
Prime Moving's Condo Experience
We do hundreds of London condo and apartment moves every year — Western University residences, downtown towers, White Oaks complexes, and beyond. We know the buildings, the rules, and the quirks. Call (226) 499-5889 for a free quote.
Just bought your first home in London, Ontario? Congratulations! Here's your complete moving checklist and everything first-time buyers need to know.
Before Closing Day
Book Movers Early
In London, professional movers book up — especially on weekends and at month-end. As soon as you have your closing date, book your movers immediately. Aim for a weekday (easier parking, less competition).
Set Up Utilities Before You Arrive
In London, you'll need:
- London Hydro — 519-661-5503
- Enbridge Gas — 1-877-362-7434
- Water/Wastewater — City of London 519-661-4500
- Internet — Rogers, Bell, or TekSavvy (book 2+ weeks ahead)
Do a Pre-Move Walkthrough
Before your stuff arrives, walk through the new home and photograph every room. This documents condition before your furniture goes in.
Moving Day
- Be ready before movers arrive — everything packed, sealed, and labeled
- Have the keys in hand before the truck arrives
- Direct movers room by room
- Do a walk-around before movers leave — note any transit damage immediately
Legal Requirements (Don't Skip)
- Driver's licence: Ontario law requires updating your address within 6 days of moving
- Health card: Update at ServiceOntario
- Voter registration: Update at elections.ca
- CRA: Update online via My Account
London-Specific Tips for New Homeowners
- Waste collection: Sign up for London's waste calendar at london.ca
- Parking permits: Many London neighbourhoods (near Western, downtown, Old North) require residential parking permits
- Snow removal: London bylaws require clearing sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall
- Change your locks — standard practice with any new home
First Home Moving Costs
For a typical London move (apartment to your new home):
- 2 movers + truck: $160/hr, 4–6 hours = $640–$960
- 3 movers + truck: $190/hr, 3.5–5 hours = $665–$950
- Moving mid-month on a Tuesday or Wednesday = best availability and rate
Prime Moving — London's First-Time Buyer Specialists
We've helped hundreds of first-time buyers move into their new London homes. Transparent pricing, no hidden fees, 4.9★ rated. Call (226) 499-5889 for your free quote.
Winter moves in London and Southwestern Ontario come with real risks and real savings. Here's everything you need for a successful cold-weather move.
The Case FOR Winter Moving
Counterintuitively, winter is actually a great time to move in Ontario:
- Lower demand = better availability — movers are less busy November through March
- Easier to book — you can often get your preferred date and time
- No sweating — loading a truck in -5°C beats sweating in 30°C humidity
The Real Challenges
Snow and Ice
Slippery driveways and icy walkways slow everything down. A 4-hour summer move might take 5–6 hours in January.
What to do: Salt and shovel your driveway and walkways the morning of the move. Ask your new home's seller to do the same.
Protecting Your Belongings
Moisture is the enemy of electronics, wood furniture, and cardboard boxes.
- Double-wrap electronics in plastic before moving
- Use plastic totes instead of cardboard for moisture-sensitive items
- Keep the truck door closed between loads
Cold Damage to Certain Items
- Electronics — laptops, TVs, speakers (condensation when brought inside can damage them)
- Musical instruments — temperature changes cause wood to crack
- Paint and liquids — will freeze and expand
- Plants — most won't survive below 5°C
Solution: Transport sensitive electronics in your own heated car.
Ontario Winter Move Checklist
- [ ] Salt and shovel both properties morning of move
- [ ] Protect floors with runners or towels
- [ ] Double-bag electronics in plastic wrap
- [ ] Book a morning start before it gets dark early
- [ ] Have warm drinks ready for the crew
- [ ] Confirm the move 24 hours before in case of storm
What Prime Moving Does in Winter
- Floor runners on every winter move — no wet boot damage
- Shrink wrap on all upholstered furniture — moisture protection included
- Realistic time estimates that account for Ontario winter conditions
Prime Moving operates through all Ontario winters. Call (226) 499-5889 to book your winter move.
Ready to downsize? This guide covers decluttering, what to keep, what to sell, and how to make your smaller Ontario home feel like more.
Why Ontarians Are Downsizing
- Retirement: Mortgage-free, lower maintenance, simpler lifestyle
- Empty nest: The 4-bedroom house suddenly feels too big
- Cost savings: London property taxes + utilities add up fast
- Health: Single-floor living is easier as mobility changes
Step 1: The Honest Inventory
Walk through every room and be ruthless. Ask of every item:
- Have I used this in the last year?
- Will it fit in the new space?
- Does it bring me genuine joy?
- Could someone else use this more?
If the answer to all four is no — it goes.
Step 2: The Four-Pile Method
For every room, create four piles:
- Keep — essential, used regularly, fits new space
- Sell — Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, estate sale
- Donate — Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, local shelters
- Trash — broken, outdated, no value to anyone
London donation options:
- Mission Services of London
- Goodwill Industries
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore (takes furniture and appliances)
Step 3: Measure Everything
Before moving a single piece of furniture, measure your new space. Create a floor plan and test whether your furniture actually fits. Common mistake: assuming your king bed, sectional, and dining table for 10 will fit in a 900 sq ft condo.
Step 4: The Sentimental Stuff
The hardest part of downsizing isn't furniture — it's decades of sentimental items.
- Photograph everything you can't keep — digital album preserves the memory without the space
- Pass heirlooms to family now — let children and grandchildren enjoy them
- Keep one representative item instead of the whole set
Downsizing Move Costs
Downsizing moves are often faster and cheaper — there's simply less to move. A typical downsizing from a 3-bedroom house to a 1-bedroom condo in London takes 4–6 hours with a 2–3 person crew.
Senior discount: Prime Moving offers 10% off for seniors on all downsizing moves.
Ready to Downsize?
Prime Moving has helped hundreds of Ontario seniors and families downsize with care and efficiency. Rated 4.9★, 10% senior discount. Call (226) 499-5889 for a free quote.
Keep your furry family members safe, calm, and happy during your Ontario move. Expert tips for dogs, cats, small animals, and everything in between.
Before the Move
Update ID Tags and Microchips
Before anything else — update your pet's ID tag with your new address and phone number. If your pet is microchipped, update the registry. Critical in case your pet escapes during the chaos of moving day.
Visit the Vet
- Get a copy of vaccination records (needed when registering with a new vet)
- For anxious pets, ask about anti-anxiety medication for moving day
- Find a new vet before you move — ask your current vet for referrals
Moving Day: Keep Pets Secure
The #1 rule: keep pets completely out of the way during the move.
Dogs
- Book doggy daycare for moving day — the safest option
- If keeping them home, crate in a quiet room with a sign: "Dog Inside — Do Not Open"
- Never leave in the car in Ontario weather
Cats
- Keep in a closed room with litter box, food, water, and bed
- Use a Feliway diffuser for a few days before the move (calming pheromones)
- Transport in a secure carrier — never loose in the car
Small Animals
- Transport in secure carriers or travel cages
- Keep temperature stable — avoid direct sun or cold
- Cover bird cages during transport to reduce stress
Arriving at the New Home
For Cats
Set up one room first with all their familiar items. Let them explore this room before accessing the whole house. This can take 2–4 weeks for anxious cats.
For Dogs
Walk them around the new property and neighbourhood immediately. Familiar smells from their toys and bedding will help them settle.
Ontario-Specific Tips
- Dog licensing: In London, Hamilton, and most Ontario municipalities, dogs must be licensed. Register within 30 days.
- Coyotes: Many London and suburban Ontario neighbourhoods have coyote populations — keep small dogs and cats supervised outdoors.
Need Movers Who Understand Pet Households?
Prime Moving works with pet-owning families across Southwestern Ontario. Call (226) 499-5889 for a free quote.
Everything Ontario parents need to know to make moving day smooth, fun, and stress-free for the whole family — from toddlers to teens.
Start the Conversation Early
Tell your kids about the move as soon as the decision is made. The more lead time they have, the better.
- Toddlers (0–3): Stay calm and keep routines. They pick up on your stress.
- Young kids (4–8): Explain it like an adventure. Focus on positives — new bedroom, new parks, new friends.
- Tweens (9–12): Involve them in decisions — which room, paint colour, new school.
- Teens: Give them space to process. Don't force positivity.
Let Kids Help Pack Their Room
Give each child their own packing tape and let them label their boxes. It gives them ownership and makes unpacking feel like their own project.
Pro tip: Pack a special "first night box" with each child's favourite toys, books, and snacks. Load it last so it comes off the truck first.
Hire a Babysitter for Moving Day
This is the #1 tip professional movers give families: get kids out of the house on moving day. Send them to grandparents or hire a babysitter. Kids underfoot on moving day is a safety risk and slows everything down.
Visit the New Neighbourhood Before the Move
- Walk to the new school
- Visit the nearest park or splash pad
- Grab ice cream on the new street
Familiarity reduces anxiety for kids of all ages.
Keep Routines Intact
The first few weeks after the move, stick to routines as closely as possible: same bedtime, same morning routine, same after-school snacks. Routines are an anchor when everything else feels new.
Enrol in School Early
In Ontario, contact the new school board as soon as you have your new address. Thames Valley (London), Hamilton-Wentworth, or whichever board — getting enrolled early means your child has a start date to look forward to.
The First Week at the New Home
- Unpack kids' rooms first — having their own space set up reduces anxiety dramatically
- Let kids choose where their posters and artwork go
- Explore the neighbourhood together as a family
- Order pizza the first night and make it feel like a celebration
Moving in London, ON? We Have You Covered
Prime Moving specializes in family moves across Southwestern Ontario. Rated 4.9★ by 350+ families. Call (226) 499-5889 for a free quote.
Moving Guides & Resources
Insider secrets from professional movers that will save you time, money, and stress.
1. We Can't Read Your Mind
Tell us about narrow doorways, steep stairs, long walks, parking restrictions, and fragile items BEFORE moving day. Last-minute surprises cost you time (and money).
2. Packing Matters More Than You Think
Poorly packed boxes lead to damaged items and slower moves. If you pack yourself, use proper boxes (not old produce boxes), don't overload, and label everything.
3. Be Ready When We Arrive
Everything should be boxed, furniture should be empty (no clothes in dressers!), and pathways should be clear. Every minute we wait costs you money.
4. Heavy Items Take Time
Pianos, safes, hot tubs, and pool tables require special equipment and careful handling. Don't try to save money by hiding these from your quote - we'll find out on moving day and it'll cost more.
5. Winter Moves Are Harder
In London, Ontario, winter moves take 20-30% longer due to snow, ice, and protective covering. Book extra time and clear your walkways.
6. Don't Pack Hazardous Materials
Paint, propane, cleaning chemicals, and batteries can't go in the truck. We're not being difficult - it's the law and your safety.
7. More Movers = Faster Move
A 3-person crew costs more per hour than 2 movers, but they finish 40% faster. For bigger moves, it's actually cheaper to hire more people.
8. Photos Protect Everyone
Take photos of your furniture and valuables before the move. It protects both you and us in case of damage claims.
9. Communication Is Everything
Stay available by phone on moving day. If we have questions about where things go or find unexpected issues, we need to reach you quickly.
10. We Appreciate Respect
Movers work hard in physically demanding conditions. Being friendly, offering water, and showing appreciation goes a long way!
Avoid scams and hire the right movers! Complete guide to choosing professional, reliable moving companies in London, Ontario.
Step 1: Verify Licensing and Insurance
In Ontario, legitimate moving companies must be licensed and insured. Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage. Red flag: Companies that can't provide this documentation immediately.
Step 2: Check Online Reviews and Ratings
Look for 4.5+ stars on Google with at least 50+ reviews. Read both positive AND negative reviews. Watch for patterns - do multiple customers mention damage, late arrivals, or surprise charges?
Step 3: Get Multiple Written Quotes
Never settle for phone estimates. Get detailed, written quotes from at least 3 companies. Compare what's included - some quote low hourly rates but add fees for stairs, long carries, fuel, etc.
Step 4: Ask the Right Questions
- • How long have you been in business?
- • Do you have a physical office in London?
- • What's included in your hourly rate?
- • Do you charge for travel time, stairs, or parking?
- • What happens if my belongings are damaged?
- • Can I get references from recent customers?
Step 5: Understand Pricing Structures
London movers typically charge $160-$225/hour depending on crew size. Beware of quotes significantly lower - they often add hidden fees later. Expect 3-6 hours for a 2-bedroom apartment, 6-10 hours for a 3-bedroom house.
Red Flags to Avoid:
- ⚠️ No physical address or local phone number
- ⚠️ Requires large deposit upfront (over 25%)
- ⚠️ Unbranded trucks or unmarked vehicles
- ⚠️ No written contract or estimate
- ⚠️ Prices way below market rate
- ⚠️ Poor communication or pressure tactics
Green Flags - What to Look For:
- ✅ Established local presence (5+ years)
- ✅ Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- ✅ Professional website and communication
- ✅ Excellent Google reviews (4.8+ stars)
- ✅ Licensed, insured, and bonded
- ✅ Clear cancellation and damage policies
Why Choose Prime Moving?
We're London's highest-rated moving company with 350+ five-star Google reviews. Our pricing is simple: $160/hr (2 movers), $190/hr (3 movers), $225/hr (4 movers) - all supplies included. No surprises, no hidden fees. Licensed, insured, and locally owned since 2014.
Transparent breakdown of moving costs for 2-bedroom apartments in London, ON. Real prices, no hidden fees, with money-saving tips.
Average Cost Breakdown (Local Move)
Based on 2026 London, ON market rates: • Small 2-bedroom (600-800 sq ft): $480-$720 (3-4.5 hours, 2 movers) • Average 2-bedroom (800-1000 sq ft): $640-$960 (4-6 hours, 2-3 movers) • Large 2-bedroom (1000+ sq ft): $855-$1,140 (4.5-6 hours, 3 movers)
What Affects Your Moving Cost?
- • Distance between apartments (stairs vs elevator, parking access)
- • Amount of belongings (minimalists vs hoarders pay very different prices)
- • Heavy items (pianos, safes add $150-$300 each)
- • Packing service (add $150-$175/hour if movers pack for you)
- • Time of year (summer = peak rates, winter = deals)
- • Day of week (weekends cost 10-15% more)
London Ontario Moving Rates (2026)
Standard hourly rates for professional movers: • 2 movers + truck: $160/hour • 3 movers + truck: $190/hour • 4 movers + truck: $225/hour Minimum: 3.5 hours for most companies
Sample Quote: Typical 2-Bedroom Apartment
Real example from Prime Moving: • Location: Downtown London to Old North (15 min drive) • Apartment: 2nd floor walkup, 850 sq ft, elevator at origin • Crew: 3 movers • Time: 5 hours • Rate: $190/hour • Total: $950 + tax Includes: All moving supplies, furniture disassembly/assembly, careful transport
Hidden Fees to Watch For
- ⚠️ Travel time charges (some add 1-2 hours)
- ⚠️ Stair fees ($50-$100 per floor)
- ⚠️ Long carry fees (truck far from door)
- ⚠️ Fuel surcharges on long-distance
- ⚠️ Weekend/evening premiums
- ⚠️ Packing material markups (boxes, tape)
Money-Saving Tips:
- ✅ Move mid-week, mid-month (avoid 1st/last of month)
- ✅ Move October-April (off-season rates)
- ✅ Pack yourself (saves $150-$300)
- ✅ Declutter beforehand (less stuff = faster move)
- ✅ Be 100% ready when movers arrive
- ✅ Get 3+ quotes to compare
Is DIY Cheaper?
Rental truck: $150-$250/day Gas: $60-$100 Friend pizza/beer: $50 Your back pain: Priceless Professional movers for $640-$960 suddenly seems reasonable, doesn't it? Plus you get insurance, experience, and keep your friends.
Make moving day smooth and stress-free with these expert tips from professional movers. Avoid common mistakes and save time!
Tip 1: Start Early - Create a Timeline
Don't wait until the last minute! Begin planning 6-8 weeks before your move date. Book your movers early (good companies fill up fast in summer). Create a moving binder with all paperwork, quotes, and checklists.
Tip 2: Declutter BEFORE You Pack
Why pay to move stuff you don't want? Go through every room and ruthlessly declutter. Sell, donate, or trash items you haven't used in a year. Less stuff = faster move = lower cost.
Tip 3: Pack an 'Essentials Box' First
Pack a clearly labeled box with: • Toiletries and medications • Phone chargers • Change of clothes • Snacks and water • Important documents • Basic tools • Pet supplies Load this LAST so it's first off the truck.
Tip 4: Label Everything Clearly
Write room names on ALL sides of boxes (not just the top). Add 'FRAGILE' in red marker for breakables. Number boxes and keep a master list of contents. Trust us - you'll thank yourself later when unpacking.
Tip 5: Protect Your Floors and Walls
Lay down cardboard or blankets in high-traffic areas. Use corner guards on walls. This protects both your old AND new home from damage during the move.
Tip 6: Take Photos of Electronics Before Unplugging
Before disconnecting your TV, computer, or stereo system, snap photos of how cables are connected. You'll save hours of frustration when setting up at your new place.
Tip 7: Keep Movers Hydrated and Fed
Provide water, coffee, and maybe pizza for your moving crew. Happy, energized movers work faster and more carefully. Small investment, big returns.
Tip 8: Do a Final Walkthrough
Before leaving, check every room, closet, cabinet, basement, and garage. Look under beds, behind doors, in attics. Take photos of the empty property as proof of condition.
Tip 9: Have Cash Ready for Tips
Industry standard: $20-$40 per mover for half-day moves, $40-$60 for full-day. Tips are appreciated but not required - base it on service quality.
Tip 10: Update Your Address Immediately
Ontario law requires updating your driver's license within 6 days of moving. Also notify: • Bank and credit cards • Employer • CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) • Insurance companies • Service Ontario • Canada Post (mail forwarding)
Bonus Tip: Confirm Details Day Before
Call your moving company 24 hours before to confirm arrival time, crew size, and any last-minute details. Prevents miscommunication and ensures everyone's on the same page.
Real stories from customers who learned the hard way. Don't let these moving nightmares happen to you!
The Unlicensed Mover Disaster
Sarah hired a 'moving company' she found on Facebook Marketplace offering unbeatable prices. They showed up 3 hours late in an unmarked rental truck, broke her furniture, and demanded cash upfront. When items went missing, she had no recourse - they weren't licensed or insured.
The Hostage Situation
John got a quote for $500, but when his belongings were loaded, the movers demanded $2,000 or they'd drive away. With everything he owned in their truck, he had no choice but to pay.
The Bait & Switch
A company quoted Lisa $300 for a 1-bedroom move. On moving day, they claimed her stuff 'wouldn't fit' and charged her double, then rushed the job and damaged her TV and dresser.
How to Protect Yourself:
- ✅ Always verify the company is licensed and insured
- ✅ Get everything in writing before moving day
- ✅ Check Google reviews - 4.5+ stars with 100+ reviews minimum
- ✅ Ask for a detailed breakdown of costs upfront
- ✅ Never pay 100% cash before the move is complete
- ✅ Avoid companies with no physical address or phone number
Moving to St. Thomas? Learn about neighborhoods, cost of living, local movers, and why this Railway City is perfect for families.
Why St. Thomas?
Population: 42,000+ | Average Home Price: $520,000 (2026) Known as the Railway City, St. Thomas offers small-town charm just 25 minutes from London. Lower housing costs, excellent schools, tight-knit community, and easy access to Highway 401. Perfect for families and retirees.
St. Thomas Neighborhoods
- • Downtown St. Thomas: Historic charm, walkable, Victorian homes. Average: $450k-$650k
- • North St. Thomas: Newer developments, young families, parks. Average: $500k-$700k
- • South St. Thomas: Affordable, starter homes, quiet streets. Average: $400k-$550k
- • Sunset Drive Area: Executive homes, mature trees. Average: $600k-$850k
Cost of Living - St. Thomas vs London
St. Thomas is 15-20% cheaper than London: • Rent (1-bedroom): $1,100 vs $1,400 in London • Property taxes: Lower rates • Groceries: Similar prices • Gas: Same as London area • Utilities: 10% lower on average
Moving Costs to St. Thomas
- • Within St. Thomas: $480-$855 (3-4.5 hours, 2-3 movers)
- • London to St. Thomas: $640-$950 (4-5 hours)
- • Toronto to St. Thomas: $1,300-$1,900
- • Windsor to St. Thomas: $1,100-$1,600
What We Love About St. Thomas
- ✅ Affordable housing compared to London
- ✅ Great schools - St. Thomas has excellent elementary and high schools
- ✅ Low crime rate - one of safest cities in Ontario
- ✅ Pinafore Park - beautiful green space and trails
- ✅ 25 minutes to London for shopping and entertainment
- ✅ Strong community events and festivals
Prime Moving Services in St. Thomas
We've helped 100+ families move to and from St. Thomas. Our local movers know the area inside-out - tight downtown streets, condo buildings, parking restrictions. We serve St. Thomas with the same professional service London customers love. $160/hr (2 movers), all supplies included!
Everything you need to know about moving to Woodstock, ON - neighborhoods, costs, schools, and why this friendly city is booming.
Why Woodstock?
Population: 41,000+ | Average Home Price: $565,000 (2026) Woodstock is the Dairy Capital of Canada and one of Ontario's fastest-growing cities. Affordable housing, strong job market (Toyota, manufacturing), excellent amenities, and just 40 minutes from London. Perfect for young families and professionals.
Best Woodstock Neighborhoods
- • Old Woodstock: Historic downtown, character homes, walkable. Average: $500k-$750k
- • Eastwood: New developments, modern homes, families. Average: $600k-$850k
- • Northdale: Established, parks, great schools. Average: $550k-$750k
- • Southside: Affordable, starter homes. Average: $450k-$600k
Woodstock Job Market
Major employers: • Toyota Manufacturing Canada (8,000+ jobs) • Woodstock General Hospital • Woodstock Hydro • Retail & Service sector (growing) Average household income: $82,000 | Unemployment: 4.8%
Moving Costs to Woodstock
- • Within Woodstock: $480-$855
- • London to Woodstock: $750-$1,050 (4-5.5 hours)
- • Toronto to Woodstock: $1,400-$2,000
- • Kitchener to Woodstock: $900-$1,300
Family-Friendly Amenities
- ✅ Museum Square - downtown hub with parks and splash pad
- ✅ Southside Aquatic Centre - year-round swimming
- ✅ 40+ parks and trails throughout the city
- ✅ Excellent schools - both public and Catholic boards
- ✅ Growing downtown with new restaurants and shops
- ✅ Low property taxes compared to GTA
Real pricing for moves between London, St. Thomas, Woodstock, Stratford, Brantford and other SW Ontario cities. No hidden fees.
Southwestern Ontario Moving Routes - Actual 2026 Prices
These are real prices based on actual moves we've completed. Prices include truck, movers, fuel, and all moving supplies.
London-Area Moves
- • London to St. Thomas (25 km): $640-$950 - 4-5 hours
- • London to Woodstock (45 km): $750-$1,050 - 4.5-5.5 hours
- • London to Stratford (60 km): $855-$1,140 - 5-6 hours
- • London to Brantford (90 km): $1,050-$1,425 - 6-7.5 hours
- • London to Tillsonburg (50 km): $800-$1,050 - 4.5-5.5 hours
- • London to Ingersoll (35 km): $700-$950 - 4-5 hours
What's Included in Our Prices
- ✅ Professional moving crew (2-4 movers)
- ✅ Moving truck (16ft, 20ft, or 26ft)
- ✅ Fuel and travel time
- ✅ All moving supplies: blankets, shrink wrap, tape, dollies
- ✅ Furniture disassembly/assembly
- ✅ Full liability insurance
Distance vs Time: What Affects Cost?
It's not just distance! Here's what impacts your final price: • Home size (studio vs 4-bedroom = huge difference) • Stairs/elevator access at both locations • Heavy items (pianos, safes add time) • Packing service needed? • Time of year (summer = busy = book early) • Day of week (weekends cost 10-15% more)
Popular Routes - Average Times
- • St. Thomas to Woodstock: 3.5-4.5 hours ($560-$720)
- • Stratford to London: 5-6 hours ($855-$1,140)
- • Brantford to London: 6-7.5 hours ($1,050-$1,425)
- • Woodstock to Kitchener: 5-6.5 hours ($950-$1,235)
Money-Saving Tips for Long Distance SW Ontario Moves
- ✅ Move October-April for better rates and availability
- ✅ Book 3+ weeks in advance (we fill up fast in summer)
- ✅ Pack yourself to save $150-$300
- ✅ Declutter before moving - less stuff = faster move
- ✅ Move mid-week, mid-month when possible
- ✅ Be 100% ready when movers arrive (every minute counts)
Everything you need to know about moving to London, ON: best neighborhoods, average home prices, moving costs, and local tips.
Why London, Ontario?
Population: 422,000+ | Average Home Price: $650,000 (2026) London offers big-city amenities with small-town charm. Home to Western University and Fanshawe College, excellent healthcare (London Health Sciences Centre), diverse job market, and growing tech sector. Only 2 hours to Toronto, 2.5 hours to Detroit.
Best London Neighborhoods (2026)
- • Old North: Trendy cafes, heritage homes, walkable. Average: $650k-$900k
- • Byron: Family-friendly, top schools, suburban. Average: $700k-$1M
- • Wortley Village: Hip boutiques, restaurants, community feel. Average: $600k-$900k
- • White Oaks: Shopping, entertainment, newer builds. Average: $500k-$750k
- • Oakridge: Golf courses, executive homes, mature trees. Average: $750k-$1.4M
- • Downtown: Condos, young professionals, nightlife. Average: $350k-$550k
Cost of Living Comparison
London vs Toronto (2026 averages): • Rent (1-bedroom): $1,400 vs $2,200 • Gas: $1.45/L vs $1.55/L • Groceries: 15% cheaper in London • Restaurant meal: $18 vs $25 • Car insurance: 25% lower in London
Moving Costs to London
- • Within London: $640-$1,140 (3-6 hours, 2-3 movers)
- • Toronto to London: $1,400-$2,200
- • Hamilton to London: $1,200-$1,800
- • Ottawa to London: $2,500-$3,500
- • Packing service: Add $150-$175/hour
- • Storage: $150-$300/month
Job Market & Economy
Major employers: • London Health Sciences Centre (12,000+ jobs) • Western University (7,500+ jobs) • Manufacturing: Toyota, 3M, General Dynamics • Tech: Digital Extremes, Voices.com, Info-Tech • Finance: Canada Life, TD, RBC Unemployment: 5.2% (2026) | Average salary: $58,000
Education
- • Western University: Top-ranked research university
- • Fanshawe College: 21,000+ students, tech programs
- • Thames Valley District School Board: 77 elementary, 18 secondary schools
- • London District Catholic School Board: Excellent Catholic education
Weather & Lifestyle
Four distinct seasons: • Winter: -15°C to 5°C (Dec-Mar) - snow removal required • Spring: 5°C to 18°C (Apr-May) - rainy • Summer: 20°C to 30°C (Jun-Aug) - humid • Fall: 10°C to 20°C (Sep-Nov) - beautiful foliage Outdoor activities: Thames Valley Trail, Springbank Park, Budweiser Gardens, Covent Garden Market
Moving Tips for London
- • Best time to move: September-May (avoid summer rush)
- • Winter moves: Book extra time for snow/ice
- • Parking permits: Required for most downtown buildings
- • Elevator reservations: Book 2+ weeks ahead in condos
- • Utilities setup: Enbridge (gas), London Hydro, water/waste
