Planning a move in Montreal? One of the first questions on every client’s mind is: how much is this going to cost?
Moving prices vary depending on several factors — the size of your home, the time of year, the distance of your move, and the services you need. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan your budget confidently and avoid surprises on moving day.
How Are Moving Prices Calculated in Montreal?
Most local moving companies in Montreal, including Laforce Moving, charge by the hour. The hourly rate depends on the size of the crew and truck required for your move.
Here is how billing works:
· Billing starts when the truck arrives at your origin address
· Billing ends once the last item is unloaded at your destination
· Time is calculated in 15-minute increments
· A travel fee — equivalent to one hour of service — is charged in addition to the hourly rate
· A minimum of 3 hours is billed on every move
How Much Does a Local Move in Montreal Cost?
The table below shows realistic cost estimates for common home sizes, based on our regular season rates and average move durations. All estimates include the travel fee.
| Home Size | Team | Est. Move Time | Travel | Hourly Rate | Travel Fee | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | 2 movers | 2 – 3 hrs | ~1 hr | $135/hr | $135 | $405 – $540 |
| 2 bedrooms | 2 movers | 4 – 6 hrs | ~1 hr | $135/hr | $135 | $675 – $945 |
| 3 bedrooms | 3 movers | 5 – 7 hrs | ~1 hr | $165/hr | $165 | $990 – $1,320 |
| 4 bedrooms | 3 movers | 8 – 10 hrs | ~1 hr | $165/hr | $165 | $1,485 – $1,815 |
| 5+ bedrooms | 4 movers | 10 – 12 hrs | ~1 hr | $195/hr | $195 | $2,145 – $2,535 |
These are estimates — your final cost will reflect the actual hours worked and any applicable fees.
Note on travel fees: Our standard travel fee covers travel to your origin address and return to our depot. For moves outside our standard service zone, additional travel time and fuel surcharges may apply. Your advisor will confirm the exact travel fee in your personalized quote. Moving around July 1st? Dates fill up extremely fast. We strongly recommend booking 8 to 10 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date and time slot.
What Factors Affect the Price of Your Move?
Time of Year
Peak season (June 20 to July 2) brings rate increases of 30% to 80% compared to regular season rates. If your move date is flexible, choosing fall, winter, or early spring can result in significant savings.
Day of the Week
Weekends and the beginning or end of the month are consistently in high demand. A mid-week move — Tuesday or Wednesday — typically offers better availability and lower rates.
Home Size and Volume of Belongings
The more belongings you have, the longer the move takes — and the larger the crew and truck you will need. Decluttering before moving day is one of the most effective ways to reduce your total cost.
Accessibility
Properties with stairs, narrow hallways, long walking distances from the truck, or no elevator require more time and labor. Easy ground-floor access with nearby parking results in a faster, more economical move.
Additional Services
Optional services add convenience but will impact your final bill:
· Professional packing and unpacking — billed at an hourly rate per packer
· Specialty items such as pianos, pool tables, safes, and antiques — quoted separately
· Short or long-term storage — priced by locker size and rental cycle
· Boxes and packing supplies — available through our Online Store
Tips to Save Money on Your Move
Book early. The earlier you book, the more options you have — especially during peak season. Booking 8 to 10 weeks ahead around July 1st is strongly recommended.
Move mid-week. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the least busy days, offering better availability and more scheduling flexibility.
Declutter before you move. Every item you donate, sell, or discard is one less item you pay to move.
Get a detailed written quote. Always confirm what is included — travel fees, fuel, equipment, liability coverage, and minimum hours — before committing to any company.
Pay in cash. Paying in cash saves on credit card transaction fees — and we pass those savings directly on to you with a 5% discount on your final bill.
Red Flags to Watch For When Hiring Movers in Montreal
Not all moving companies operate with the same level of professionalism and transparency. Watch out for:
· No written quote — always get it in writing
· Unusually low rates — if it seems too good to be true, it often is
· Vague pricing — “starting from” rates without clear inclusions
· No insurance or liability coverage — a reputable company always carries coverage
· No verifiable reviews — check Google, Facebook, and the BBB before booking
Why Choose Laforce Moving?
Laforce Moving is part of Groupe Laforce, with over 15 years of experience serving Montreal, Laval, the North Shore, the South Shore, and the Greater Montreal Area.
· Trained, uniformed, and punctual movers
· Transparent pricing with no hidden fees or surprises
· Every item carefully wrapped, protected, and handled with care
· Modern trucks and equipment, regularly cleaned and maintained
Ready to get a personalized quote? Contact Laforce Moving and one of our advisors will get back to you within the hour — no obligation, completely free.
GET A FREE QUOTE
Call us at 514-556-3440

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