Month: September 2025

As a Platinum Sponsor of CERC 2025, Atlas Van Lines is proud to support the critical conversations shaping the future of global workforce mobility. This year’s conference theme—New Frontiers—highlights the rapid transformation of how people live and work, and how organizations are evolving to support that movement.

For Atlas, these changes aren’t theoretical—they’re driving real, on-the-ground shifts in long-distance moving and corporate relocation strategies across Canada.

Rethinking Mobility: What We’re Seeing on the Ground

The statistics show that today’s employees are more mobile, more flexible, and more cost-conscious than ever before. As a result, the traditional full-service home relocation model is evolving to meet new expectations:

• Smaller, more flexible moves: Many employees are downsizing or relocating between multiple residences as hybrid work and remote opportunities reshape living patterns.
• Secured storage solutions: With extended timelines and phased transitions becoming common, storage is no longer a convenience—it’s a necessity.
• Containerized shipping: Predictability, security, and efficiency are more important than ever, particularly for cross-border and long-haul relocations.
• Modular services: On-demand, customizable support allows companies to right-size workplace relocation programs without sacrificing quality or experience.

Aligning with Emerging Workforce Mobility Trends

Industry research underscores these trends. According to recent insights from CERC and global mobility surveys, companies are:

• Adjusting for economic pressures and helping employees relocate to more affordable regions or housing markets
• Redesigning policies to support employees managing multiple residences or split-location work arrangements
• Prioritizing employee experience during moves, recognizing its impact on retention and well-being
• Embedding sustainability into relocation policies to align with ESG goals

These trends aren’t just shaping policy—they’re redefining how organizations select mobility partners. At Atlas, we’re responding with:

• Flexible, cost-efficient move models backed by real-time tracking and transparent pricing
• Nationally available containerized and storage options that support phased and hybrid moves
• A customer-first relocation experience that reflects the needs of both companies and the people they move
• Partnerships with Trees Canada and Food Banks Canada, bringing purpose to every move through environmental and community support

What’s Next

As the world of work continues to shift, long-distance moving and logistics services must adapt in kind. Atlas is proud to be part of that evolution—delivering strategic, scalable solutions that help organizations support their people, navigate complexity, and plan for the future.

Learn more about the Canadian Employee Relocation Council and how Atlas supports long-distance and employee relocations across Canada:

Corporate Relocation Service

This fall, the Canadian Employee Relocation Council (CERC) hosted its annual conference in Calgary, bringing together leaders to discuss the future of workforce mobility. At Atlas, we see firsthand how global trends translate into practical moving challenges. Here are four of the most pressing issues shaping workforce mobility today — and how they come to life when people are on the move.

Compliance and Policy: Where Regulations Meet Moving 

Mobility policies are growing more complex, especially when it comes to cross-border and international assignments. Immigration, customs, tax obligations, and duty of care all play a role in how employees and their families relocate.

For Atlas, compliance isn’t an abstract policy discussion — it’s the day-to-day work of ensuring goods clear borders, documents are accurate, and nothing delays an employee’s start in a new role. A well-managed move keeps businesses running smoothly and employees confident as they settle into their new locations.

Employee Experience: The Human Side of Relocation

Moving for work is one of life’s most stressful experiences. Beyond logistics, a relocation can affect family routines, emotional well-being, and productivity on the job. Mobility professionals talk about “assignee experience,” but for Atlas, that experience begins when the moving truck arrives.

Our role is to reduce uncertainty: by providing options like guaranteed delivery dates, secured containerization, and real-time tracking so employees and families know what to expect. A smooth move doesn’t just get someone from point A to B — it supports retention, performance, and a positive relationship between the employer and the transferee.

Sustainability: Moving Responsibly for the Future

Organizations across Canada are looking at how their mobility programs align with environmental and social responsibility goals. Moving is part of that equation.

Atlas is focused on reducing the impact of relocations by optimizing routes, modernizing fleets for fuel efficiency, and supporting initiatives like Tree Canada and Food Banks of Canada, where we help support the communities where we work. For companies and governments with ESG priorities, a sustainable moving partner is no longer optional — it’s an expectation.

Technology: Bringing Clarity and Transparency to Moving

As mobility programs adopt digital tools, moving must keep pace. Technology enhances every stage of the relocation journey, from planning to delivery.

Atlas uses virtual survey tools to provide quick and accurate estimates, integrates with corporate systems for better visibility, and offers real-time tracking for shipments. These tools don’t replace the personal service that moving requires — they add clarity, reduce stress, and build trust with both employees and employers.

One Goal, Many Clients: Private, Corporate, and Government Moves

While the contexts differ, the core needs of private clients, corporate teams, and government organizations are connected.

• Private clients want reassurance that their belongings will be safe, their pets and vehicles can travel with them, and the process won’t be overwhelming.

• Corporate clients need relocation services that support workforce strategies, minimize downtime, and align with ROI goals.

• Government clients require scalable, policy-compliant solutions that are secure and dependable.

For Atlas, each of these moves is part of the same mission: helping people transition smoothly into new opportunities.

Looking Ahead

Workforce mobility is changing rapidly, shaped by compliance demands, employee expectations, sustainability goals, and digital transformation. But no matter how policies or strategies evolve, they all depend on one thing: moving people.

At Atlas Van Lines Canada, we stand at the point where mobility planning becomes reality. Our role is to make every move — whether across the province, across the country, or across the border — a seamless part of the workforce mobility journey.

Planning a move to Vancouver? Whether you’re thinking of relocating across provinces, moving from another part of British Columbia, or arriving from abroad, Vancouver offers a unique blend of opportunity, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its diverse communities, thriving tech industry, and world-class setting between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver continues to attract people from across Canada and around the world.

A long-distance move—especially one that spans provinces or countries—takes more than just packing moving boxes. It requires careful planning, professional support, and local expertise. That’s where Atlas Van Lines Canada comes in. With over 60 years of moving experience and three trusted Atlas Agents based in the Vancouver area, we combine national reach with boots-on-the-ground knowledge and advice to help you relocate with confidence.

Meet Your Trusted Atlas Agents in Vancouver

Vancouver and the GVRD are served by three experienced Atlas Agents, each with a strong reputation for professionalism and community knowledge:

• Salmons Transfer
• Highland Worldwide (International Moving & Storage)
• AMJ Vancouver
• Ellis Moving & Storage
• LaPorte Moving & Storage
• Premiere Van Lines

Whether you’re moving into a high-rise condo downtown, a family home in the suburbs, or relocating internationally, our agents provide the care and coordination that define the Atlas Trusted Agent Network.

Welcome to Vancouver: A City of Diversity and Connection

Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia and the heart of the Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD), home to over 2.6 million people. The city is renowned for its cultural diversity—more than half of residents are multilingual—and its reputation as a global gateway for education, business, and innovation.

With the North Shore Mountains rising to the north and the Pacific Ocean stretching west, Vancouver is one of the few cities in the world where you can ski, sail, and enjoy city life in the same day. It’s no surprise that so many people from Toronto, Calgary, and across Canada are asking, “Is moving to Vancouver a good idea?” For many, the answer is yes—thanks to the city’s balance of opportunity, lifestyle, and community.

Fast Facts

• Population: ~675,000 (city), ~2.6 million (metro area/GVRD)
• Languages: English is official, but Mandarin, Punjabi, Tagalog, and others widely spoken
• Climate: Mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers
• Layout: Vancouver is part of a network of municipalities including Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, North Vancouver, Coquitlam, Langley, and more

Neighbourhoods and Communities

Each Vancouver community has its own character, amenities, and benefits. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or family, there’s a neighbourhood to fit your lifestyle.

Top Communities to Explore:

• Downtown Vancouver & Yaletown – High-rise living, restaurants, nightlife, and proximity to offices
• Kitsilano – Beachfront community, family-friendly, close to UBC
• North Shore (North Vancouver & West Vancouver) – Access to mountains, trails, and luxury homes
• Burnaby – Home to Simon Fraser University, Metrotown shopping, and diverse communities
• Richmond – A multicultural hub known for its food scene, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and family-friendly neighbourhoods
• Surrey & Langley – Fast-growing suburbs offering more space, new developments, and a mix of urban and rural living

Education, Employment & Quality of Life

Education

• University of British Columbia (UBC) – One of Canada’s top-ranked universities with global research impact
• Simon Fraser University (SFU) – Multi-campus university in Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey
• BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) – Applied learning and technical programs

Key Industries

• Technology – Vancouver is a hub for gaming, film/TV production, software, and clean tech companies
• Tourism & Hospitality – A gateway for global visitors and cruise ship traffic
• Film & Media – Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver has one of the world’s busiest film industries
• Natural Resources & Trade – Port of Vancouver is Canada’s largest, connecting goods globally

Lifestyle Highlights

• Access to the Sea-to-Sky Corridor: Whistler, Squamish, and Pemberton just a short drive away
• Iconic destinations: Stanley Park, Granville Island, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain
• Outdoor recreation: skiing, hiking, kayaking, biking trails year-round
• A multicultural food scene with global recognition—from sushi to farm-to-table dining

Setting Up in Vancouver: What You’ll Need to Do

Your Atlas Agent will handle moving logistics for your furniture and other valuable stuff, but here is a checklist things to know and key steps to take once you arrive:

1. Health Care Registration
   Apply for the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP). There is a waiting period of up to 3 months for new residents.
   Website: gov.bc.ca/msp
2. Driver’s Licence and Vehicle Registration
   Exchange your licence and register your vehicle with ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia).
   Website: icbc.com
3. Update Your Address
   Notify CRA, Service Canada, banks, utilities, schools, and employers.
4. Utilities and Internet Setup
   • Hydro: BC Hydro
   • Gas: FortisBC
   • Internet/TV: Telus, Shaw, Novus
5. School and Childcare Registration
   Public: Vancouver School Board and other district boards in GVRD
   Independent/private schools are also common across the region
6. Municipal Services
   Garbage, recycling, and composting: vancouver.ca/services
   Local city websites provide schedules and apps for service reminders

Living Like a Local

Vancouverites are known for being active, eco-conscious, and community-driven. Once you’ve unpacked, explore some local favourites:

• Walk or cycle the Stanley Park Seawall
• Shop and dine at Granville Island Public Market
• Ski at Grouse, Cypress, or Seymour Mountains—just minutes from downtown
• Take a day trip along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler
• Cheer on the Canucks at Rogers Arena or the Whitecaps at BC Place

Why Choose Atlas for Your Vancouver Move?

• Over 60 years of long-distance and cross-border moving expertise
• Three locally based Atlas Agents with strong reputations: Salmons Transfer, Highland Worldwide, AMJ Vancouver, Ellis Moving & Storage, LaPorte Moving & Storage, and Premiere Van Lines
• Full-service packing, unpacking, and storage solutions
• Real-time tracking and secured, container transport
• Transparent, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees

Whether you’re comparing moving companies in Vancouver, relocating alone, or coordinating a cross-country or international move, the Atlas Trusted Agent Network has the trucks, resources and experience to get you there.

“At Atlas, we believe it’s not just the destination—it’s who you travel with.”

Get Your Free Moving Estimate Today

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Vancouver

Is moving to Vancouver a good idea?
It depends on your priorities around the pros and cons. Vancouver offers unmatched natural beauty, career opportunities in tech and film, and diverse communities. Housing costs are high, but many consider the lifestyle benefits and advantages worth it.

What are the benefits of moving to Vancouver?
Access to world-class education, outdoor recreation, a multicultural city, and career opportunities in growing industries.

Where can I buy moving boxes in Vancouver?
You can find moving supplies at hardware stores like Home Depot and Canadian Tire, or ask your Atlas Agent about professional-grade boxes and packing materials.

Why are people moving to Vancouver?
Many are drawn by job opportunities in tech and film, access to top universities, and the city’s balance of urban and outdoor living.

What tips should I know before moving to Vancouver?
Plan for the cost of living, research neighbourhoods in the GVRD, and be prepared for the mild but rainy winters.

What does moving to Vancouver cost?

The cost of moving to Vancouver depends highly on the amount of belongings moved, the distance moved, and the options selected (e.g. storage). Seek a quote from a service with a good reputation for complete up-front pricing and no hidden fees.

Can I move to Vancouver alone?
Yes—many newcomers move on their own for work or school. An Atlas Agent can provide full-service support to make the transition easier.

Check out the Atlas Moving to Montreal: Your Insider’s Guide

Check out the Atlas Moving to Calgary: Your Insider’s Guide