May is National Moving Month, and with many Canadians planning to move to new homes, apartments or offices, it’s an opportune time to offer expert advice on making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We chatted with Aaron Parker, the founder and CEO of Parker’s Moving, a leading Toronto moving company, to get his top moving tips. —Vita Daily

Hi Aaron! Please tell us a bit about yourself to start.
As a Toronto local, I’m all too familiar with the stress that comes with moving. That’s why I’m dedicated to building businesses that turn stressful situations into manageable ones. After spending years in the corporate world, I shifted my focus to the start-up life and have been in storage and logistics for 6 years. My background working for a high-end packing and move management company showed me the behind-the-scenes of moving and sparked a passion for real estate. However, my time at a storage company also exposed me to the poor service levels in the moving industry, so I decided to make a change. That’s how Parker’s Moving was born. Since launching in March 2021, we’ve focused on increasing transparency, acting as a moving consultant, creating a strong work culture for consistent service, and decreasing stress through communication, expectation setting, prompt responses, and talented movers. With 4 trucks and 12 full-time professionals on our team, we’re committed to providing incredible service to anyone looking to move in the Toronto area.
What are some tips for Canadians to make their moving process more efficient and stress-free?
Moving can be overwhelming, but there are plenty of ways to make it easier. One trick is to start by decluttering your life – donate or dispose of items that no longer serve you. This not only lightens your load, but it can also help those in need. Plus, there are experts out there to guide you through the process, like Sage Goldenberg from The Moving Genie. With the right mindset and support, moving can be an exciting chance to start anew. So embrace the adventure and tackle your move like a pro!
Choosing the right boxes for packing is essential to ensure a smooth journey. Sure, you could go for Home Depot’s standard boxes that will do the job, but if you want to do your bit for the planet and save some cash in the long run, Frog Box offers durable, eco-friendly plastic bins that can be rented. But what about the moving company itself? To make the process even more worry-free, you need to find a moving company that not only takes care of your possessions but also supports you emotionally and is transparent with all the costs involved. Do your homework to choose the best company for a seamless move.
Can you speak to the importance of choosing a reputable moving company, what factors should be considered when selecting one and what sets Parker’s Moving apart?
Choosing a moving company is like choosing a superhero sidekick, they need to be reliable, trustworthy and have your back when things get crazy. Instead of searching on Google like a helpless damsel in distress, ask your friends for their superhero recommendations and use Facebook groups as your superhero HQ. Once you’ve compiled a list of top contenders, use your detective skills and investigate their online reputation. But don’t stop there, make sure you interview each one thoroughly and find out if they’re up to the challenge. It’s important to remember that a true superhero sidekick will always have your best interests at heart and will stop at nothing to make sure your move is smooth and stress-free. Once you’ve got a feel for the company, it’s time to ask for an estimate – but hold up! Don’t settle for an estimate off a list. Instead, request a virtual or in-person walkthrough to get the most accurate estimate possible. This will save you from the dreaded horror stories of a move being double the original cost. So roll up your sleeves, dive into the research, and ask all the questions. Your extra effort on the front end will lead to a happily-ever-after in your new abode. What sets Parker’s Moving apart from the rest is our dedication to excellent customer service and attention to detail, our team goes above and beyond to make your move a success. From a virtual walkthrough within two days of your inquiry to prompt and concise communication through text, we ensure that you stay informed every step of the way. We even use specialized software to keep track of your specific requirements, so you don’t have to worry about repeating requests on moving day. Plus, our partnerships with top-notch vendors mean we can offer comprehensive services like packing, junk removal, and even new home design. So when you choose Parker’s Moving, you’re not just choosing a moving company – you’re choosing a stress-free, exciting adventure into your new home!
How can Canadians ensure the safety and security of their belongings during the moving process?
If you’re about to entrust your precious belongings to a moving company, listen up! You absolutely need to vet the team, speak with them, and walk through your home with them before they start moving your things. This is how you establish trust that your cherished items will be cared for during the move. Make sure you’re present during the move, because those first 20 minutes are critical – you’ll quickly figure out if you’re dealing with competent movers or not. At Parker’s Moving, we go the extra mile by checking in on our clients 1.5 hours into the move. It’s not unusual for us to hear our clients say, “These guys are so kind and are wrapping my furniture like crazy, and boy do they move quickly.” We take pride in providing an exceptional moving experience, and our clients’ feedback confirms that we deliver.
What are some common mistakes Canadians make when moving, and how can they avoid them?
Moving can be like a never-ending treasure hunt! You start by finding that shoe you thought was lost and suddenly unearth boxes you didn’t even know existed. So, it’s important to always overestimate how much stuff you have – you never know what treasures you may find! People often underestimate the amount of stuff they have, so it’s best to add an extra 30-40% onto what they believe they have. It’s also important to communicate respectfully with movers and allow them to do their job, giving helpful feedback as they work. Key pickup should be coordinated in advance to prevent delays, and creating a safe pathway for movers to unload can prevent accidents and make the move more efficient. Avoiding these common mistakes can make moving a more manageable and less stressful experience.