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How to Choose a Reputable Mover in Canada

Choosing a reputable moving company is the most important step in the moving process. Learn what the Government of Canada and the Canadian Association of Movers recommend — and how to identify red flags.

Government of Canada Standards

The Government of Canada's Office of Consumer Affairs provides clear guidance on choosing a mover. Here are the key standards every reputable moving company should meet:

Get Multiple Estimates

Get estimates from at least three reputable movers and be clear about what you want them to include. Written estimates are essential.

Check CAM Certification

Verify the mover is certified by the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). CAM members meet strict industry standards and professional practices.

Verify Local Presence

Ensure they have a physical address and can be found in the event of a problem. Avoid companies without a local presence.

Check References

Ask for and contact references from previous customers. A reputable mover will have no problem providing them.

Confirm Insurance Coverage

Ask about liability coverage and valuation options for high-value items. Ensure your belongings will be protected during the move.

Understand Their Operations

Find out how the company manages your move and protects your belongings. Ask about their process and what to expect.

Source: Government of Canada, Office of Consumer Affairs, Moving Advice (ised-isde.canada.ca)

What CAM Certification Means

The Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) is Canada's only trade association representing moving and storage companies. CAM members are vetted and must meet strict membership requirements.

Industry Leadership

CAM members are Canada's top moving companies with proven track records.

Professional Standards

Members commit to ethical practices, fair treatment, and delivering promised services.

Accountability

Membership requires Board approval and ongoing compliance with CAM standards.

Purely Canadian Movers is a proud CAM member. We've been vetted by the Canadian Association of Movers and meet all membership standards for professional conduct and customer service.

Red Flags to Avoid

The Government of Canada warns consumers to watch for these warning signs when choosing a mover:

No physical address or can't be found online

Estimates given only over the phone, not in writing

Requesting a large deposit upfront

Not listed by CAM or Better Business Bureau

Using subcontractors (major source of consumer complaints)

Unwilling to provide references

Unclear pricing or hidden fees

About Subcontractors: The Government of Canada specifically warns that sub-contracting is a major source of consumer complaints. It can result in a confusing trail of responsibility if a dispute arises, and many brokers do not assume responsibility for lost or broken items. Purely Canadian Movers uses zero subcontractors — every mover on your job is a direct employee.

Why Purely Canadian Movers Meets All Standards

When you choose Purely Canadian Movers, you're choosing a company that meets and exceeds every standard recommended by the Government of Canada and the Canadian Association of Movers.

CAM Member

We're certified by the Canadian Association of Movers and meet all industry standards.

BBB Accredited (A+)

Our Better Business Bureau accreditation reflects our commitment to ethical practices.

Family-Owned Since 1991

30+ years of proven track record and local presence in Coquitlam, BC.

Zero Subcontractors

Every mover on your job is a direct employee — no confusion, no surprises.

Full Insurance Coverage

We carry liability coverage and offer valuation options for high-value items.

Written Estimates & Local Presence

Professional, transparent pricing and a physical address you can reach us at.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does CAM membership mean?

The Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) is Canada's only trade association representing moving and storage companies. CAM members are vetted by the organization's Board of Directors and must meet strict membership requirements. Membership indicates the company treats customers fairly, delivers promised services, and maintains professional standards.

Why is no-subcontractor important?

According to the Government of Canada, sub-contracting is a major source of consumer complaints. When a mover uses subcontractors, there can be a confusing trail of responsibility if something goes wrong. With Purely Canadian Movers, every mover on your job is a direct employee — you know exactly who's handling your belongings.

What should I ask about insurance?

Ask about the mover's liability coverage and what it covers. Ask about valuation options for high-value items like artwork, antiques, or electronics. Make sure you understand what's covered and what's not before signing any agreement.

Is BBB accreditation important?

Yes. BBB accreditation indicates the company meets standards for ethical business practices, customer satisfaction, and transparent advertising. A BBB A+ rating demonstrates a strong commitment to customer service and ethical conduct.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance for local moves, and 4–8 weeks for long-distance or cross-country moves. However, we do our best to accommodate last-minute bookings when availability allows.

What makes Purely Canadian Movers different?

Purely Canadian Movers meets and exceeds all Government of Canada and CAM standards: we're CAM members, BBB Accredited (A+ rating), family-owned since 1991, use zero subcontractors, carry full liability insurance, provide written estimates, and maintain a local presence in Coquitlam, BC.

Ready to Choose a Trusted Mover?

Purely Canadian Movers meets all Government of Canada and CAM standards. Get your free, no-obligation estimate today.

Family-owned movers in Metro Vancouver since 1991

Purely Canadian Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Coquitlam, BC, serving Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland with local moves, and all of Canada and Canada-USA routes with long-distance moving. Every move is handled by our own trained crews — no subcontractors — with written estimates, valuation coverage options, and Great Canadian Van Lines agent support for cross-Canada moves.

Local moving

Homes, condos, townhomes, and apartments across Coquitlam, Burnaby, Vancouver, Surrey, Langley, and Metro Vancouver.

Long-distance & cross-country

Cross-Canada and Canada-USA moves through the Great Canadian Van Lines network with route-specific estimates and transit timing.

Packing, storage & protection

Full or partial packing, fragile crating, short- and long-term storage, and valuation coverage options.

Frequently asked questions

What areas do Purely Canadian Movers serve?

We serve Metro Vancouver and the Lower Mainland for local moves — including Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Burnaby, Vancouver, Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver, Richmond, Delta, White Rock, and Abbotsford — plus long-distance routes across Canada and to the USA.

Do you use subcontractors?

No. Local moves are handled by our own trained crews, and long-distance moves run through the Great Canadian Van Lines network rather than a broker handoff to unknown movers.

How long has Purely Canadian Movers been in business?

We are a family-owned company operating since 1991, BBB Accredited, based in Coquitlam, BC.

How do I get a moving estimate?

Call 1-877-485-6683 or request a free, no-obligation written estimate on our contact page. Estimates consider your inventory, route, access, packing, and storage needs.

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