Moving and Packing Helper Jobs in Canada for Foreigners: Moving and packing helper jobs are physically demanding roles within Canada’s logistics and moving industry. For foreign workers, these positions can offer a way to enter the Canadian labour market. Securing a legal work permit for this type of job is possible but follows a structured and competitive process through Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
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Table of Contents
Understanding the Work Permit Pathway
To work legally as a moving/packing helper in Canada, you require a closed work permit. This is dependent on a Canadian employer first obtaining a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which proves they need to hire a foreign worker because no suitable Canadian candidate is available.
Can Employers Get an LMIA for Moving Helper Jobs?
It is possible but difficult. Success is more likely under specific conditions:
Location & Industry Need: Moving companies in regions with major economic activity, high population turnover, or remote project sites may have a stronger case. This includes cities with many corporate relocations (Toronto, Calgary) or companies supporting large remote projects (e.g., mining camps in Northern Canada).
Seasonal Peaks: The industry has peak seasons (spring and summer). An employer might secure an LMIA for temporary seasonal help.
Specialized Moving: Companies that handle specialized items (pianos, art, sensitive electronics) may require helpers with specific training or experience, strengthening an LMIA application.
Proven Recruitment Failure: The employer must advertise the job locally at the prevailing wage for at least 4 weeks and demonstrate a lack of qualified Canadian applicants.
Job Role and Requirements
As a moving and packing helper, typical duties include:
Loading and unloading furniture/boxes from trucks.
Safely packing and wrapping household/office items.
Carrying heavy items up and down stairs.
Assembling/disassembling furniture.
Assisting drivers with navigation and logistics.
Key Requirements:
Physical Strength & Stamina: This is a heavy lifting job.
No Formal Education Required: But a high school diploma is an asset.
Driver’s License: A valid license (often a Class 5) is a major advantage, especially for roles that involve driving a moving truck.
Reliability & Teamwork: Essential for tight schedules and customer service.
Safety Mindset: Knowledge of proper lifting techniques is critical.
The Step-by-Step Process to Get Hired
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from an LMIA-Approved Employer
This is the biggest hurdle. You cannot apply for an LMIA yourself.
How to Find Employers: Search for established moving companies in Canada (e.g., Two Men and a Truck, Allied, local reputable companies). Look for job postings on Job Bank (jobbank.gc.ca), Indeed.ca, or logistics-specific job boards. Some postings may state “LMIA support available” for hard-to-fill positions.
Recruitment Agencies: Specialized agencies sometimes recruit TFWs for logistics and warehouse roles.
Step 2: Employer Obtains a Positive LMIA
The Canadian moving company applies to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). If approved, they receive a positive LMIA document with a number.
Step 3: You Receive Formal Offer & LMIA Copy
The employer provides you with a detailed employment contract and the positive LMIA.
Step 4: You Apply for the Closed Work Permit
With these documents, you apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Required documents include:
Passport.
Job offer letter and LMIA number.
Proof of any relevant experience.
Police clearance certificate.
Medical exam (if required).
Proof of funds.
Step 5: Biometrics and Decision
You submit biometrics. If approved, you receive a work permit valid only for that specific employer and job.
Important Realities and Considerations
Closed Work Permit: You are tied to one employer. Changing jobs requires a new LMIA and work permit.
Duration: Initially granted for 1-2 years, potentially renewable if the employer obtains a new LMIA.
Wages: Must meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the province. Typically ranges from CAD $18 – $25 per hour, with potential for overtime during busy periods.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)? This job is classified as NOC 75101 – Material handlers (low-skilled). It provides Canadian work experience but does not qualify directly for Express Entry (which requires skilled experience). However, it could lead to a supervisory role (e.g., Moving Supervisor, NOC 72021) that is skilled. Some Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams for in-demand occupations might include related trades, but this is not guaranteed.
A Strategic Alternative: The Driver-Helper Route
The most valuable and in-demand profile is a helper who can also drive a moving truck. Obtaining a Canadian Class 5 or Class 3 driver’s license (if required for larger vehicles) before applying makes you a significantly stronger candidate and can improve an employer’s LMIA case.
Critical Warnings About Scams
Never Pay for an LMIA or Job Offer: This is illegal. The employer bears the LMIA cost.
Verify the Company: A legitimate moving company will have a physical address, trucks, insurance, and customer reviews.
Beware of “Guaranteed” Permits: No one can guarantee visa approval. IRCC makes the final decision.
Too-Good-To-Be-True Offers: Be cautious of offers with unusually high pay for no experience.
Final Practical Advice
Target Major Hubs: Focus on cities with high relocation activity: Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa.
Get Licensed: If possible, obtain a Canadian driver’s license or ensure your home country license is valid in Canada with an International Driving Permit.
Highlight Physical Fitness: In your resume/application, emphasize any previous labour-intensive work, stamina, and teamwork.
Start Early: The LMIA/work permit process can take 6-12 months. Begin your search well in advance of your intended start date.
Consider Related Industries: Look for similar “material handler” or “warehouse” jobs in logistics companies, which may also use the TFWP.
Use Official Resources: Always confirm processes on the official IRCC and ESDC/Canada Job Bank websites.
Moving and Packing Helper Jobs in Canada for Foreigners: Moving and packing helper jobs represent a physically tough but viable potential entry point to Canada through the TFWP for foreign workers. Success hinges on finding an employer with a genuine need who is willing to navigate the LMIA process. Strengthening your application with a driver’s license and focusing on employers in high-demand regions will increase your chances. Be patient, verify all opportunities thoroughly, and treat this as a potential first step toward building a longer-term future in Canada.
