Saanich is Greater Victoria's largest municipality, spanning from urban neighborhoods to rural properties. Whether you're moving to Saanich or relocating within it, these insider tips from local movers will help ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
🚗 Parking & Moving Permits
Do You Need a Moving Permit?
Unlike some municipalities, Saanich generally does not require special permits for moving trucks. However, there are important considerations:
✓ Narrow Streets
Many older Saanich neighborhoods (Cadboro Bay, Gordon Head) have narrow streets. Large moving trucks may need to park on the street temporarily - inform neighbors in advance.
✓ Condo & Strata Buildings
Book the building elevator 2-3 weeks ahead. Many condos require certificate of insurance from your moving company and have specific moving hours (usually 9 AM - 5 PM weekdays).
✓ Rural Properties
If moving to rural Saanich (Ten Mile Point, Prospect Lake), ensure your driveway can accommodate a moving truck. Long, narrow driveways may require multiple trips with a smaller vehicle.
📅 Best Times to Move in Saanich
✓ Best Times
- Mid-Week: Tuesday-Thursday for less traffic
- Mid-Month: Avoid month-end rush
- Fall/Winter: Better availability, lower rates
- Morning Starts: 8-9 AM for full day moves
✗ Avoid If Possible
- Summer Weekends: Peak season = higher prices
- UVic Move-In: Early September chaos
- Long Weekends: Limited availability
- Month-End: Everyone else is moving too
💡 Pro Tip: UVic Students
If you're moving near UVic (Gordon Head, Cadboro Bay), expect high demand in late August/early September and late April/early May. Book 6-8 weeks ahead during these times.
📍 Neighborhood-Specific Tips
Cadboro Bay
- • Narrow, winding streets - plan truck access carefully
- • Beach access restrictions during summer
- • Many heritage homes with delicate items
Gordon Head
- • Student housing area - expect competition Sept/May
- • Many basement suites with tight stairs
- • Close to UVic - parking can be challenging
Cordova Bay
- • Mix of condos and houses - book elevators early
- • Some properties have long driveways
- • Beach traffic on summer weekends
Broadmead
- • Upscale neighborhood with larger homes
- • Wide streets, easy truck access
- • Often have valuable art/furniture - need experienced movers
Rural Saanich
- • Check driveway width and slope for truck access
- • May need 4x4 in winter
- • Longer travel time = higher costs
💰 Save Money on Your Saanich Move
📦Before Moving Day
- • Declutter first - less stuff = less time
- • Pack yourself to save 20-30%
- • Get free boxes from liquor stores
- • Schedule mid-week for better rates
🚚On Moving Day
- • Have parking spot ready
- • Clear pathways in advance
- • Disconnect appliances beforehand
- • Have everything packed and ready
⚠️ Common Moving Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not Booking Early Enough
Spring/summer fill up fast. Book 3-4 weeks minimum, 6-8 weeks if moving near UVic in September.
❌ Underestimating Stairs
Many Saanich homes have split-levels or basement suites. Stairs significantly increase moving time and cost.
❌ Forgetting Strata Rules
Condo buildings have strict rules about moving times, elevator booking, and insurance requirements. Check with strata management 3+ weeks ahead.
❌ Not Checking Truck Access
Older neighborhoods and rural areas may have challenging access. Our team always does a pre-move assessment to plan the best approach.
✅ Saanich Moving Checklist
4 Weeks Before
- ☐Book professional movers
- ☐Reserve elevator (if condo)
- ☐Start decluttering
- ☐Collect packing supplies
2 Weeks Before
- ☐Notify utilities of move date
- ☐Update address with CRA, BC Services
- ☐Start packing non-essentials
- ☐Confirm details with movers
Moving Day
- ☐Clear parking for truck
- ☐Have boxes labeled and ready
- ☐Valuable items secured
- ☐Final walkthrough
After Moving
- ☐Update driver's license
- ☐Register kids at new school
- ☐Find family doctor (important!)
- ☐Explore neighborhood
Moving in Saanich?
We've completed thousands of moves throughout Saanich. We know every neighborhood, parking challenge, and the best routes. Let the local experts handle it!