Moving from Alberta to British Columbia
Many people are making the move from cold Alberta to warmer, oceanside British Columbia. If you're one of these Canadians seeking to relocate, you're not alone! There are many great reasons to move to BC, and although a long-distance move across Canada can be challenging, you'll find it worth the effort. We've gathered several great reasons to move from Alberta to British Columbia and an overview to get your move started.
Benefits of Moving from Alberta to British Columbia
Before you start packing for your long-distance move, it's important to know more about your destination.
Employment Outlook in British Columbia
One of the biggest benefits of moving to British Columbia from Alberta is the low unemployment rate in BC. The province has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and is expected to create about 500,000 new jobs over the next couple of years. Many people seeking better employment opportunities move to BC, and with a diverse economy, there are jobs for just about every skill set.
Some of the biggest employers in the large city of Vancouver are IBM, Intel, Kodak, Microsoft, and Nokia. As a port city, Vancouver handles nearly $200 million worth of cargo each day, contributing to the city's thriving economy. Other large industries in this city include biotechnology, software development, and alternative energy solutions.
The rest of British Columbia benefits from the economies of Vancouver and the province's capital, Victoria. For example, one of the largest employers in the province is MacDonald, Dettwiler, and Associates (MDA), with over 1,000 people working at this satellite and information technology company. HSBC Canada, a worldwide banking and financial services company, also has its Canadian headquarters in Vancouver.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Educational Opportunities
For those with children or those looking at post-secondary studies, the province of British Columbia may be ideal for a great education. Dozens of government-funded elementary and high schools offer top-tier education, putting Canadian students on the right track to succeed at university.
For those seeking higher levels of education, there are 11 public universities and five private universities in BC to choose from. The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of the top-ranked universities in the country, #2 behind the University of Toronto. Simon Fraser University, ranked #10 in Canada, is also located in British Columbia, and both of these schools offer plenty of scholarships to talented Canadians.
Outdoor Fun
In a country known for exciting and diverse winter sports, British Columbia is no exception. The varied landscape, from oceans to mountains, offers plenty for the outdoor adventurer. Many BC residents enjoy sailing on the Pacific Ocean or deep-sea fishing. Golf is also a popular pastime in the summer, as is hiking in the mountains.
The resort town of Whistler-Blackcomb is known throughout the world for some of the best slopes for skiing and snowboarding. The community is also a destination spot for world-class restaurants, exclusive shopping, and gorgeous resort hotels complete with full-service indulgences and pampering.
Glacier National Park, located in BC, is an ecologically significant region in Canada. The ancient cedar trees stretch dozens of meters into the sky, providing shelter for bears and other wildlife. Caribou roam the plains of the park. Glacier National Park is also a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts, with challenging climbing opportunities and easy spots for beginners. The Ainsworth Hot Springs in the southwest part of British Columbia offers a more peaceful, relaxed destination, with naturally warm pools and breathtaking horseshoe caves.
Cost of Moving From Alberta to British Columbia
The cost for a long-distance move from Alberta to British Columbia can vary widely, depending on the size of your household (how many rooms you'll need to move) as well as specifically which city you're moving from and which one you're moving to. The distance includes mileage for the Alberta moving company's truck, as well as the cost for expert movers to load and unload your belongings.
The average cost of a long distance move depends on several variables. The average linehaul moving cost from Alberta to British Columbia with Allied Van Lines is $6,000. Linehaul cost is the base fee for transporting your household goods over that distance.
Many factors play a part in determining the cost, such as exact distance of the move, weight of items being moved, and additional services such as storage, packing, and unpacking. Also, the time of year that you choose to move matters. Moving in peak season, typically the spring and summer, will cost more than if you choose to move in January. Get a more accurate quote by contacting us for a free estimate.
How to Move From Alberta to British Columbia
Before you pack your first box, it's important to do a little homework about your move from Alberta to British Columbia. Decide where you want to live – whether it's the bustling city of Vancouver, the island city of Victoria, or one of the smaller towns further east in the province. Once you've selected your new home, check out the schools in the area as well as medical facilities, financial services (if there is a branch of your current bank there), insurance companies, and car mechanics.
You may also wish to explore recreational activities and see if there are things that you like to do. You may love the vibrant culture of a large city, with plenty of shopping and local dining opportunities. Or, you may be more outdoorsy and wish to live near one of the province's many natural wonders and state parks.
Your job is important, too. If you aren’t moving from Alberta to British Columbia for a position you’ve already secured, it’s smart to research employment opportunities ahead of time. Start sending out résumés before your move and schedule interviews whenever possible. For roles with regulatory oversight, be sure to confirm that your certifications transfer from Alberta to BC. If they don’t, you’ll need to research the steps required to become qualified in British Columbia.
You'll also need to transfer your driver's license and any other information to BC. Make sure you have current documents from your insurance provider about your driving experience. These will need to be originals, not photocopies, to allow you to get a BC license and transfer your insurance coverage. Don't forget about your health insurance records, as well as immunization records for children and their school records. If you have pets, you'll also need vet records for them, and you may wish to look for a new vet in British Columbia, as well.
Logistics of the Move
There's a lot that goes into organizing a long-distance move. To start, you'll need a comprehensive plan for packing your items. It's always best to declutter before relocating to help streamline the unpacking process and to save on expenses. If you don't have the time to pack your items safely and strategically, consider hiring professional packers to assist.
Other planning and logistics tasks you'll need to complete before moving day include creating a budget, transferring utilities, and changing your address. The best way to ensure all of these tasks are complete before move-out day is to create a moving timeline or use a moving checklist to track your tasks.
Choosing a Reliable Moving Company
Alberta and British Columbia are roughly 984 kilometers apart, making the move a long-distance relocation. To ensure the process is as seamless as possible, consider hiring a professional mover to assist with the heavy lifting.
The best way to find a trustworthy partner for your move is to request quotes from different moving companies and compare rates. You'll also want to read customer reviews to ensure you find a reliable partner you can trust throughout the process.
Allied Van Lines has the experience and professional knowledge to move households of any size across Canada. Give us a call or go online to book your moving service. It's that simple!
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.
Cost‑Saving Tips
Hiring a company for your move to British Columbia can get expensive. Here are some cost-saving tips to save on your next move.
Move During the Off-Peak Season
Summer is considered the peak season for moving. This means demand for moving services is higher, and so is the cost. Rates are typically more affordable if you can plan your move between September and March.
Planning your move-out date during the week rather than the weekend can also be more affordable. Most people plan their move for the weekend to accommodate their work schedule, which means the prices are higher. Choosing to move during the week instead can have cost-saving advantages.
Portable Storage Pods vs a Full Pack
If you have a lot of items you're bringing to British Columbia, consider investing in a portable storage pod. If you have the flexibility and don't need all of your items delivered right away, this is a great way to save on moving costs.
Potential Tax Credits
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) allows you to deduct certain moving expenses during tax season. The deductible amount will depend on the purpose of your move. It's always best to save all of your receipts so you can review them at the end of the year during tax season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving From Alberta to BC
Are you looking to hire a long-distance moving company in Alberta? Review our frequently asked questions below before you get started.
How long does a move from Alberta to British Columbia typically take?
Alberta is roughly 984 kilometers away from British Columbia. This means it typically takes a moving company in Alberta anywhere from five to 14 days to complete a move of this size. The exact time and date will vary, depending on the distance and the size of your home. Other factors, like traffic and weather, can also cause unexpected delays.
Do I need a special license or permit to drive my belongings across provincial borders?
No, a special license or permit is not needed to transport your items between Alberta and BC. However, if you're hiring a moving company to help with your move, they may need to have a specific permit to legally transport goods.
Are moving companies taxed differently between Alberta and BC?
Yes, there are different taxes for moving companies in Alberta and British Columbia. In Alberta, moving companies are required to pay the 5% Goods and Services Tax, which is a federally mandated tax. In British Columbia, moving companies are also required to pay a 7% Provincial Sales Tax in addition to the Goods and Services Tax.
What are some major routes I can take between Alberta and British Columbia?
The three major highways between Alberta and British Columbia include Route 1, Highway 16, and Highway 93.
What should I know about healthcare when moving to BC?
Once you officially move to British Columbia, you'll need to reapply for the Medical Services Plan. There is a three-month waiting period before approval, so you'll need to plan for coverage during this time.