Moving Cost: Condo vs. House in Metro Vancouver
A 2-bedroom condo and a 2-bedroom house are the same size on paper — but they often cost different amounts to move. Here is why, and what to budget for each.
Why Condos Often Cost More Per Square Foot
Condo moves have access constraints that house moves do not:
Freight elevator booking. Most condo buildings require the freight elevator to be booked in advance for moves. If the elevator is not available at your scheduled time, the crew waits. Waiting time is billed.
Permitted move hours. Many strata buildings restrict moves to specific hours (often 8am–5pm on weekdays, or limited weekend hours). This can affect scheduling and add pressure to finish within a window.
Loading dock restrictions. Some buildings have loading docks with height restrictions, time limits, or booking requirements. A truck that does not fit the loading dock has to park further away, adding carry distance.
Longer carries. In a house, the truck often parks in the driveway or directly in front of the door. In a condo, the truck parks at the loading dock and items are carried through the lobby, into the elevator, down the hallway, and into the unit. This adds time on every trip.
Strata rules. Some strata buildings require padding on elevator walls, floor protection in common areas, or specific entry/exit routes. These requirements add setup time.
Typical Cost Comparison
| Move Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment/condo | $450–$750 |
| 1-bedroom house | $400–$650 |
| 2-bedroom condo | $650–$1,100 |
| 2-bedroom house | $600–$950 |
| 3-bedroom condo | $900–$1,400 |
| 3-bedroom house | $900–$1,500 |
These are estimates based on 4 You Moving rates ($149/hr for 2 movers + 3-ton truck, $169/hr with 5-ton truck). Actual costs depend on specific access conditions.
What Makes a House Move Faster
Houses typically have:
- Direct access from the door to the truck (no elevator, no lobby)
- Driveway or street parking close to the entrance
- No strata rules or move-hour restrictions
- More flexibility on timing
The trade-off: houses often have more furniture and more floors (stairs), which adds time. A two-storey house with a basement can take as long as a condo with difficult elevator access.
How to Prepare for a Condo Move
Book the freight elevator early. Contact your building manager 1–2 weeks before your move date. Confirm the booking the day before and share the confirmation with your moving company.
Check strata move rules. Review your strata's move-in/move-out policy. Some buildings require a damage deposit, specific entry routes, or floor protection. Know the rules before moving day.
Inform the crew of building requirements. Tell your moving company about any access restrictions, elevator dimensions, or strata rules when you book. This helps them plan the right truck and crew size.
Clear the path. Make sure the hallways and common areas at both buildings are clear before the crew arrives.
Get a Quote for Your Condo or House Move
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