How Much Does It Cost to Move From Toronto to Montreal?
Moving between two of Canada’s biggest cities is exciting, but the price tag can feel like a mystery. Toronto to Montreal is roughly 540 kilometres and a five to six hour drive, so it sits squarely in long-distance territory, where the rules of pricing change. Knowing what to expect helps you budget without nasty surprises.
Moving between two of Canada’s biggest cities is exciting, but the price tag can feel like a mystery. Toronto to Montreal is roughly 540 kilometres and a five to six hour drive, so it sits squarely in long-distance territory, where the rules of pricing change. Knowing what to expect helps you budget without nasty surprises.
This guide breaks down 2026 prices by home size, explains what actually drives the bill, and shows you where you can trim costs on the trip down the 401.
Average price to move from Toronto to Montreal
Long-distance moves are usually quoted as a flat rate, so the figure you get reflects your home size, the volume of your belongings, and the services you add. Here are typical 2026 ranges for this route.
| Home size | Typical estimate |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1-bedroom | $1,500–$2,200 |
| 2-bedroom | $2,400–$3,500 |
| 3-bedroom house | $3,500–$5,500 |
| 4+ bedroom house | $5,500–$8,000+ |
These figures cover a dedicated truck, professional loading and unloading, and transit between the two cities. Full packing, storage, or specialty items push the total higher, which we cover below.
How long-distance moves are priced
For a local move, you pay by the hour. A Toronto-to-Montreal move works differently, because most of the cost is drive time, fuel, and the dedicated truck rather than hands-on labour. As a result, reputable movers give you a flat, written quote based on weight or volume, so you know the number before moving day.
You may also be offered a shared load, where your belongings travel with another household’s to split costs. It is cheaper, but delivery windows are wider and your items spend more time in transit. A dedicated truck costs more and delivers faster with less handling.
What affects your moving cost
Two moves along the same route can land at very different prices. These are the biggest factors.
- Volume and weight. More furniture and boxes need a bigger truck and more labour.
- Access at both ends. Stairs, elevators, and long carries in downtown buildings add time.
- Packing. Doing it yourself saves money; a full packing and wrapping service adds cost but protects fragile items.
- Timing. Summer, weekends, and month-ends are the priciest windows.
- Specialty items. Pianos, safes, and appliances are usually quoted separately.
Extra costs to plan for
The headline quote rarely tells the whole story. Ask any mover to confirm whether these are included so your budget stays accurate: packing materials and labour, valuation or full-replacement insurance, short-term storage if your new place is not ready, elevator or stair fees, and handling charges for heavy items. A trustworthy company puts every line in writing.
How to save on a Toronto–Montreal move
A long-distance move is a bigger commitment, so smart planning pays off. Try these tactics.
- Move off-peak. Mid-week dates in fall or winter cost far less than a summer weekend.
- Declutter first. Weight drives the price, so lighten the load using our decluttering guide.
- Pack yourself. Boxing your own belongings is one of the largest savings on any long-haul move.
- Stay flexible on dates. A wider delivery window often unlocks a better rate.
- Get written quotes. Compare line items rather than headline numbers.
Why a dedicated long-haul mover matters
For a trip this long, the quality of the truck and crew matters as much as the price. A dedicated long-haul moving service keeps your belongings on a single truck from door to door, which means fewer hands on your boxes, tighter delivery timing, and less risk of damage than a shared load. If you are comparing companies, our guide on how to choose a moving company in Ontario walks through the red flags to avoid.
Ready to plan your move to Montreal?
The only way to know your real number is a quote built around your home and dates. Moving Co. provides clear, all-inclusive long-distance pricing with no surprise fees.
Get your free quote in 60 seconds at our quote page, or call 905-752-7787 to talk through your move.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Toronto to Montreal move take?
The drive is about five to six hours. With a dedicated truck, most moves are loaded, driven, and delivered within one to two days. Shared loads can take several days because of multiple stops.
Is it cheaper to rent a truck and drive myself?
A DIY one-way rental can be cheaper for a small load, but once you add fuel, one-way drop fees, equipment, insurance, and two days of your time and effort, hired movers are often more competitive than expected, especially for a full home.
Do I need extra insurance for a long-distance move?
Basic coverage is usually included, but it is limited. For a long haul, full-replacement valuation is worth considering, especially if you own fragile or high-value items.
When is the cheapest time to move to Montreal?
Mid-week dates between October and April are the most affordable. Avoid July 1, weekends, and month-ends, when demand and prices peak.
Can the movers store my belongings if my new place is not ready?
Yes. Many movers offer short-term storage, which is handy when your move-out and move-in dates do not line up. Confirm the cost and access terms in advance.
