New Year, New Home: Moving in January in Metro Vancouver

January is one of the best-kept secrets in the Metro Vancouver moving calendar. While most people are recovering from the holidays and not thinking about moving, the movers who do book in January get better availability, faster scheduling, and often lower rates than they would in the peak summer months.

Here is what to know if you are planning a move in the new year.

Why January Is a Smart Time to Move

Lower Demand Means More Flexibility

The summer months — June through August — are when most Metro Vancouver moves happen. Demand is high, availability is tight, and booking windows can stretch to 4–6 weeks. In January, that pressure disappears. You can often book a move with a week or two of notice, and you have more flexibility on day and time.

Rates Are More Competitive

Moving companies price based on demand. In peak season, rates hold firm because crews are fully booked. In January, some companies offer off-peak pricing or are more willing to work with your budget. It is worth asking.

Landlords and Sellers Are Motivated

If you are renting, January landlords are often more motivated to fill vacancies. If you are buying, sellers who listed in the fall and have not sold are often open to negotiation. The slower market works in your favour.

What to Watch Out For

Rain and Cold

Metro Vancouver winters are wet. January averages 150–180mm of rain, and temperatures can dip to 2–5°C overnight. This does not stop a move, but it does require preparation.

• Use plastic wrap on upholstered furniture
• Keep towels and floor runners at both addresses to protect floors
• Pack electronics and documents in waterproof bags or bins
• Wear layers — you will be moving in and out of the cold repeatedly

Shorter Days

Daylight in January runs from about 8am to 4:30pm. If your move is large, start early to make the most of the light. A 7am or 8am start gives you the full day.

Holiday Closures

Some businesses — utilities, strata offices, property management companies — run reduced hours through early January. Confirm elevator bookings, key handovers, and utility transfers well in advance.

Tips for a Smooth January Move

Book early even in the off-season. Good crews still fill up, especially on weekends. Book at least 1–2 weeks out.

Have a rain plan. Identify where you will stage boxes at both addresses to keep them out of the rain. A covered porch, garage, or lobby works well.

Confirm strata access. If you are moving into or out of a condo or strata building, confirm elevator booking and move-in/move-out times with the strata manager. Many buildings require 48–72 hours notice.

Protect your floors. Wet boots and moving equipment can damage hardwood and laminate. Lay down floor runners or old towels at both addresses before the crew arrives.

Ready to Book?

4 You Moving operates year-round across Metro Vancouver. Call 778-200-8825 or get a free quote online — we will find a time that works for you.

Get a free moving quote from 4 You Moving — we serve all of Metro Vancouver 7 days a week. View our service areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does moving cost in Metro Vancouver? Moving in Metro Vancouver with 4 You Moving costs $149/hr for 2 movers and a 3-ton truck, or $169/hr with a 5-ton truck. There is a 2-hour minimum plus travel time. Most local moves cost $450–$1,200 depending on home size.

How far in advance should I book movers in Metro Vancouver? For summer and month-end moves, book 4–8 weeks ahead. For off-peak moves (weekdays, mid-month, October–April), 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient.

What should I do to prepare for movers in Vancouver? Have everything packed and labelled before the crew arrives. Disassemble furniture that needs to be moved in pieces. Clear pathways through the home. Confirm elevator booking if moving into a condo.

Does 4 You Moving serve all of Metro Vancouver? Yes — 4 You Moving serves all of Metro Vancouver 7 days a week, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Coquitlam, North Vancouver, and surrounding areas.

What is included in the hourly moving rate? The hourly rate covers the crew and the truck. Moving blankets are always free. Packing materials (shrink wrap) are extra. There is no fuel surcharge.

How do I get a moving quote from 4 You Moving? Visit 4youmoving.com to get a free quote, or call 778-200-8825. Describe your home size, access conditions, any specialty items, and the distance between properties for the most accurate estimate.