What Day is Cheapest to Hire Movers in Calgary?

Published on July 28, 2024 by MoveCalgaryNow Team

Calendar page with a weekday circled, representing cheapest day to move

money on your Calgary move? Learn how the day of the week, month, and season can impact moving costs and find out the cheapest times to book movers.

Moving expenses can add up quickly, and savvy Calgarians are always looking for ways to save money on their relocation. One common question is: **Is there a cheapest day or time to hire movers in Calgary?** While pricing primarily depends on factors like the size of your move, distance, and specific services needed (learn more in our guide to Calgary moving costs), the timing of your move *can* influence availability and potentially the hourly rate or overall cost. Let's explore the dynamics of moving schedules and costs.

Peak vs. Off-Peak Moving Seasons and Days

Like many service industries (think airlines or hotels), moving company pricing is heavily influenced by demand. When demand is high, availability is low, and prices tend to increase. Conversely, when demand is lower, companies are more likely to offer competitive rates to fill their schedules.

Several factors create predictable peaks and troughs in demand for Calgary movers:

  • Seasonality: Summer (June-September) is peak moving season nationwide, including Calgary. Better weather, school holidays, and the end of university terms contribute to high demand.
  • Time of Month: The end and beginning of the month are extremely busy periods due to lease turnovers. Many people need to be out of their old place and into their new one around the 1st or 30th/31st.
  • Day of the Week: Weekends, especially Saturdays, are highly sought after because people prefer not to take time off work or school.

By understanding these patterns, you can strategically choose a moving date that falls during a lower demand period, potentially leading to cost savings.

So, What is Generally the Cheapest Day to Hire Movers in Calgary?

Based on the supply and demand principles outlined above:

The cheapest days to hire movers in Calgary are typically Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, falling in the middle of the month (roughly the 2nd to 3rd week), during the off-peak season (October through April).

Let's break that down:

  • Why Mid-Week (Tuesday-Thursday)?
    • Demand plummets compared to weekends (Friday-Sunday) and Mondays (often busy with people extending a weekend move or starting fresh).
    • Moving companies have better availability and may offer lower hourly rates or more flexible scheduling to fill these slower days.
  • Why Mid-Month?
    • Avoids the frantic rush surrounding the 1st and the end of the month when leases typically expire.
    • Demand is significantly lower between roughly the 5th and the 25th of any given month.
  • Why Off-Peak Season (Fall/Winter/Early Spring)?
    • Overall demand for movers drops significantly after the summer rush. Companies are more competitive with pricing between October and April (excluding major holiday periods).
    • While winter moving in Calgary presents its own challenges (weather, shorter days), it can be considerably cheaper than moving in July or August if you're prepared.

What About Mondays and Fridays?

Mondays and Fridays often act as shoulder days. They are typically less expensive than Saturdays or Sundays but busier (and potentially pricier) than mid-week days. Many people try to create long weekends for moving, increasing demand on Fridays and Mondays.

The Most Expensive Times to Move in Calgary:

  • Weekends (Especially Saturdays): Highest demand, highest prices, least availability.
  • End/Beginning of the Month: Particularly the last few days and the first few days.
  • Peak Summer Months (June, July, August): Highest seasonal demand.
  • Holidays: Moving availability around major holidays (like Canada Day or Labour Day weekend) is often limited and expensive.

How Much Can You Actually Save?

The potential savings depend on the moving company, the time of year, and how far in advance you book. While you might not see a drastic 50% reduction, savings could range from a slightly lower hourly rate to better minimum hour flexibility, or simply having more companies available to choose from, allowing you to select a more competitively priced option.

Even saving $10-$30 per hour on a multi-hour move can add up. More importantly, booking during less busy times often means:

  • Better Availability: Easier to secure your preferred, reputable mover like MoveCalgaryNow.
  • More Flexible Scheduling: Movers might have more leeway if your move takes slightly longer than estimated.
  • Potentially Less Stressed Crews: A mid-week, mid-month move might mean the crew isn't rushing from another job or facing back-to-back bookings.

Tips for Saving Money Regardless of the Day:

While choosing an off-peak day helps, other factors impact your final bill:

  • Declutter: Move less stuff! Sell, donate, or discard items you don't need before getting quotes.
  • Pack Yourself: Labour for packing significantly increases costs.
  • Source Your Own Boxes: Look for free boxes instead of buying them new or from the movers.
  • Be Prepared: Have everything packed, labeled, and ready to go *before* the movers arrive to minimize their time on the clock. Disassemble furniture yourself if possible.
  • Get Multiple Quotes: Compare detailed quotes from reputable, insured movers.

Conclusion: Flexibility Pays Off

While not always possible due to lease constraints or work schedules, having flexibility in your moving date is the key to potentially finding the **cheapest day to hire movers in Calgary**. Aiming for a mid-week, mid-month move during the fall, winter, or early spring generally offers the best chance for savings and better availability.

Regardless of the day you choose, the best way to understand your costs is to get personalized quotes based on your specific move details. Contact MoveCalgaryNow today to discuss your timeline and receive a free, no-obligation estimate for your Calgary move.

Want to Save on Your Calgary Move?

Ask us about off-peak dates and get your competitive moving quote today!