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Moving can be a daunting task, and selecting the right company is crucial to ensuring a smooth experience. In Calgary, frequent relocations for work, family, or lifestyle reasons make it even more important to choose the right movers. Understanding the difference between certified and non-certified movers helps you make a safer, more informed choice.

What Does it Mean to Be a Certified Moving Company in Calgary?

Certified moving companies in Calgary follow a set of rules that protect you and your belongings. These rules are in place to ensure companies operate legally, provide insurance, and use trained staff. Hiring a certified mover means you’re working with someone who has been approved to do the job the right way.

• Licensing and Registration in Alberta
  Not all movers in Calgary are provincially registered, especially those that operate across provincial borders. When a company handles moving services outside Alberta, they should be federally regulated instead. What stands out in Calgary, however, is the importance of having a valid business license from the City of Calgary—especially if a company offers storage services. While you can run a moving company without a license, storage providers must be licensed, and city inspectors will visit the facility to ensure all safety codes are met before a license is issued.

  Having this license displayed in the office shows compliance and transparency. If you’re checking out a moving company, ask whether they’re licensed by the City of Calgary, particularly if storage is involved. It’s a clear sign that they’re serious about meeting safety and legal standards.

• Membership in Industry Associations
  Many certified movers go a step further by joining professional groups like the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) and the International Association of Movers (IAM). These associations have their own codes of ethics and quality standards. When a moving company belongs to one, they’re expected to follow guidelines for professionalism, customer service, and fair pricing.

  While not every certified mover will be part of an association, membership is a good sign. It shows a company is trying to build trust and reputation within the industry. It also gives customers a way to submit complaints if something goes wrong, which adds another layer of protection.

• Insurance and Liability Coverage
  Certified movers are required to have insurance. This includes coverage for your items, their trucks, and their workers. If your furniture gets scratched, lost, or broken during the move, the insurance helps cover the cost of repair or replacement.

  They also carry worker’s compensation insurance. This protects you if a mover gets injured on your property. Without this coverage, you could end up paying out of pocket for an accident that wasn’t your fault. Certified companies reduce these risks and give you peace of mind.

Common Traits of Non-Certified Moving Companies in Calgary

Not all movers in Calgary are certified, and that’s where problems can start. Non-certified movers often skip legal steps and may operate informally. While their services might look cheaper at first, the risks can be expensive in the long run.

• No Proper Licensing
  One major sign of a non-certified mover is a lack of licensing. These companies often don’t register with Alberta’s government or hold any transport permits. They might run their business casually, sometimes using rented vans or personal trucks.

  If a mover can’t prove they’re licensed, it’s a major red flag. These businesses operate under the radar, which means you won’t have many options if something goes wrong. You won’t be able to verify their background, and legal action may be more complicated or even impossible.

• Little or No Insurance
  Without certification, insurance is usually missing too. Non-certified movers don’t have to carry liability or cargo insurance. If your belongings are damaged, there’s no financial backup to help replace them.

  Even worse, if a worker slips on your stairs or drops a heavy item and gets hurt, you might be the one held responsible. This kind of risk isn’t worth the lower price tag.

• Red Flags to Watch For
  Non-certified movers tend to show certain behaviours. They might avoid giving you a written quote and push for cash payments only. You may not find a physical address or any detailed information online. Their trucks are often unmarked, and their staff may not wear uniforms or carry ID.

  Other warning signs include unclear pricing, last-minute cancellations, or rushed service. If anything seems off, trust your instincts—it’s better to walk away than risk your entire move.

Why Hiring a Certified Moving Company in Calgary Matters

When moving day comes, you want everything to run smoothly. Certified movers bring structure, responsibility, and quality control. Choosing one is one of the easiest ways to lower your stress and reduce the chance of problems.

• Protecting Your Belongings
  Furniture, electronics, and delicate items all need to be packed and handled with care. Certified movers use proper wrapping materials, loading techniques, and transportation equipment. This means your valuables are safer from damage.

  And if something does go wrong, you have insurance in place. You’re not left with broken items and no compensation. That protection is part of what makes certification so important.

• Legal and Financial Protection
  Certified movers provide written contracts that explain what’s included and how much it will cost. You’ll see everything up front: services, hours, and any extra charges. This keeps the process fair and helps avoid unexpected costs on moving day.

  If a certified mover fails to meet their end of the deal, the contract gives you a legal option. You can file a complaint or take action to recover your losses. Without a contract, it’s much harder to resolve problems.

• Reliability and Accountability
  Certified movers care about their reputation. You can check their online reviews, view their work history, and talk to past customers. These companies have more to lose if they offer bad service.

  They also respond faster to questions and concerns. If something needs fixing, they’ll work with you to find a solution. That level of accountability makes a big difference.

How to Verify Certification in Calgary Movers

It’s not hard to confirm if a Calgary mover is certified—you just have to know what to ask. Taking a few minutes to check this information can help you avoid a moving disaster.

• Ask for a Business License and GST Number
  A certified Calgary mover should provide their Alberta business number and GST registration. You can use this number to search for their active status in the Alberta corporate registry.

  If a mover can’t or won’t provide this, don’t continue the conversation. Reputable companies will always have this information ready.

• Look for Association Memberships
  CAM and other trade associations maintain lists of their members online. If a mover says they’re part of an association, ask for a link to their profile or a membership ID. It should match what’s listed on the association’s website.

  This helps confirm that the mover is involved in the professional community and takes their responsibilities seriously.

• Review Contracts and Insurance Options
  Before booking, ask for a written estimate and copy of the contract. A certified mover will explain what’s covered and how they handle claims.

  Review the insurance section carefully. Make sure it includes both your property and the workers. If a mover hesitates to give this information, it’s a clear sign to look elsewhere.

The Risks of Hiring a Non-Certified Mover in Calgary

The cheaper option isn’t always the better one. Non-certified movers come with risks that can cost you more than just money. From broken items to no-show appointments, the downsides can ruin your move.

• Risk of Fraud or Hidden Charges
  Some non-certified movers quote one price and then charge much more when they show up. Without a written contract, it’s difficult to prove what was agreed upon. They may also ask for cash upfront and refuse to unload your belongings until you pay more.

  This kind of behaviour isn’t just dishonest—it’s common. Protect yourself by sticking to movers who offer detailed contracts and fixed rates.

• Damage Without Coverage
  If your flat-screen TV gets dropped or your antique furniture is scratched, there’s no insurance to help you. That means you’ll pay to repair or replace everything yourself. With non-certified movers, even something as small as a chipped dish can become a big loss.

  Worse, you won’t have an easy way to hold the company responsible. They may ignore your calls or disappear after the move.

• Poor Service and Delays
  Non-certified movers often overbook their schedules or show up late with the wrong equipment. You could be left waiting all day or helping carry heavy furniture yourself. If they damage your floors, dent walls, or lose boxes, you’re out of luck.

  Moving is stressful enough without extra problems. That’s why it’s worth hiring someone who’s certified and dependable.

Choosing the Right Calgary Moving Company

There are plenty of moving companies in Calgary. Some are top-quality, while others are only looking to make a quick buck. With a few smart steps, you can find a reliable mover who won’t let you down.

• Compare at Least Three Certified Movers
  Gather quotes from at least three different companies. This helps you compare services and pricing fairly. Look at what’s included, such as packing, insurance, and travel time.

  Talking to multiple movers also gives you a feel for their professionalism. A good mover will take time to answer your questions and walk you through the process.

• Be Cautious with Very Low Prices
  If one quote is far lower than the others, be cautious. It may not include key services, or it could be a bait-and-switch tactic. A low quote now could mean hidden costs later.

  Stick to certified movers who offer reasonable, transparent pricing. They might cost more upfront, but they’ll save you money in the long run.

• Read Local Reviews and Ask Questions
  Reviews from real Calgary customers are a powerful tool. Look at platforms like Google and Homestars to find out what people are saying. Pay attention to how companies respond to feedback.

  Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their trucks, staff training, or damage policies. Good movers will give you clear, honest answers.

Move With Confidence—Choose E&V Moving Solutions Among Calgary Moving Companies

When looking at Calgary moving companies, don’t leave anything to chance—go with a certified team like E&V Moving Solutions. With years of experience serving Calgary homes and businesses, we bring reliable service, transparent pricing, and full insurance coverage to every job. Whether you’re moving across the city or across the province, our trained staff and clean, well-equipped trucks ensure your belongings are in good hands. 

Call us at 587-470-2308 to book with E&V Moving Solutions today and make your next move a smooth one.