Moving Labour Helpers: Load and Unload Service
Load and unload rental trucks and PODS for customers who drive themselves. No truck needed.
- C$300-1.5k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
Estimates for a small start in Canada, not guarantees.
What it is
A labour-only moving service. You and a helper turn up to load or unload a rental truck, container or storage unit, and handle heavy furniture and stairs.
Your first three steps
- Buy basic kit: dolly, straps, furniture blankets, gloves and a hand truck
- Price against local labour-only movers and list your rates online
- Contact truck rental depots, storage facilities and realtors to ask if they will pass on your details
Who pays
Families and renters who have rented a truck, people with storage units, and condo owners who need help with a big item.
How it makes money
Hourly rate per mover, usually with a 2 or 3 hour minimum.
Skills that help
- Physical fitness and lifting technique
- Careful handling of furniture
- Dependable and polite
Watch out for
- Commercial general liability insurance: check what it covers for damage to belongings and buildings
- WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire helpers (rules differ by province)
- Check whether your municipality needs a business licence
- Strain and injury risk, so plan rest days
- Customer property damage disputes: take photos before you start
- Work drops off in winter in many areas
🔒 Full research report for Canada
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a moving labour business?
Startup costs are estimated at typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on the equipment you buy, such as straps, blankets and dollies, and your insurance. Treat this as an estimate and price your own kit.
How much can a moving labour helper service earn?
Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on your rates, how many jobs you take and whether you bring a helper. Work drops off in winter in many areas, so plan for quieter months.
What should I check before offering moving labour in Canada?
Check what commercial general liability insurance covers for damage to belongings and buildings. Check WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire helpers and whether your municipality needs a business licence. Take photos before you start to help with damage disputes, and plan rest days to avoid strain.
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