The Montreal-to-Toronto move is one of the most common long-distance moves in Canada — and one of the most underestimated. People look at the map, see one highway, and assume it's a step up from a local move. It isn't. The pricing model, the paperwork, and the timing all change.
Here's the version of this trip we'd give a friend.
What it actually costs
For a one-bedroom apartment with a moderate amount of stuff: $2,200 to $3,200. For a two-bedroom condo or small house: $3,400 to $4,800. For a three-bedroom house with appliances: $5,500 and up.
The big variables, in order:
- Volume. Long-distance is priced by weight or cubic footage, not hours. Less stuff = less money.
- Stairs and elevator access at both ends. A 5th-floor walk-up at one end can add $400+.
- Date. July 1st and the last weekend of every month are premium-priced. Mid-month Tuesday is the sweet spot.
- Direct vs. consolidated truck. A dedicated truck delivers in 1–2 days but costs more. Consolidated (sharing space with other moves) costs less but can take 5–10 days.
- Insurance. Basic coverage is included; full-replacement coverage typically adds 1–3% of declared value.
What to actually ask for in a quote.
Direct vs. consolidated, weight or cubic foot calculation, fuel surcharge, valuation/insurance options, written delivery window. Anything verbal disappears the day the truck does.
30 days out
- Get 3 written long-distance quotes. Reputable movers will visit (in person or by video) before quoting — anyone giving a firm price by email alone is guessing.
- Check if your mover's truck is theirs or sub-contracted. Direct ownership is generally a green flag.
- Start the purge. The Montreal-Toronto move is the perfect moment to get rid of the IKEA dresser you've assembled twice.
- Book your Toronto destination logistics: elevator, parking, building deposit if applicable.
14 days out
- Confirm the move date in writing. Get the truck size, crew size, delivery window, contact phone.
- Notify Hydro-Québec and Toronto Hydro/Toronto Hydro Electric of move-out and move-in dates.
- Set up internet at the new place — Bell, Rogers and Beanfield all have 7–14 day install windows in Toronto. Don't move in to find out you have to wait two weeks for Wi-Fi.
- Update your address: SAAQ if you keep your Quebec license temporarily (you have 60 days to change to Ontario), CRA, RAMQ exit notice, OHIP application — Ontario health coverage starts after a 3-month waiting period, so don't cancel RAMQ until you have a bridge plan.
- If you have a vehicle, check Ontario Drive Clean and licensing requirements. You have 30 days to register the vehicle in Ontario after establishing residency.
7 days out
- Start eating down the freezer. You can't transport frozen food long-distance reliably.
- Confirm parking permits (in Montreal: borough moving sign permit; in Toronto: Toronto Parking Authority on-street permit if needed).
- Cancel or transfer subscriptions tied to your address (gym, mail, deliveries).
- Book a hotel night near your Toronto destination if delivery is the next day. Don't bet on a 6-hour drive going perfectly.
3 days out
- Final pack. Mark every box with destination room and a number. Keep an inventory list.
- Defrost the fridge if it's coming with you. 24+ hours, dry it inside.
- Disconnect washer (drum lock if you have it), dishwasher, dryer.
- Pack a "first 48 hours" suitcase: clothes, toiletries, chargers, important docs, medication, kettle, mugs, bedding for one bed.
Move day
- Be at the Montreal address 30 minutes before the crew. Doors open, parking signs in place.
- Walk through every room with the crew lead. Point out anything that's not coming.
- Sign the bill of lading carefully. Read the inventory. Note any pre-existing damage in writing.
- Get the driver's cell number. Get an ETA window for Toronto delivery.
Delivery day in Toronto
- Arrive ahead of the truck. Walk the unit. Photograph any pre-existing damage.
- The crew unloads to the room indicated on each box. Tip them — long-distance crews work harder than local ones.
- Inspect every numbered box and major item against the inventory before signing acceptance. If something is missing or damaged, note it on the delivery receipt before you sign.
The week after
- Apply for OHIP if you haven't already. Bring lease, hydro bill, ID.
- Register your vehicle in Ontario (you have 30 days) — Service Ontario, bring your title, driver's license, proof of insurance.
- Notify Revenu Québec you've left the province.
- Update banks, pharmacy, employer payroll, recurring deliveries.
Planning a Montreal-to-Toronto move?
Vous planifiez Montréal vers Toronto ?
We run the 401 corridor several times a month. Free written quote — direct truck options available.
On fait la 401 plusieurs fois par mois. Soumission écrite gratuite — option camion dédié disponible.