Montreal

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Moving and Storage

Tips on moving services and storage solutions in Montreal.

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Comprehensive Guide to Moving and Storage in Montreal, Canada

Montreal is a vibrant, multicultural city with a unique blend of European charm and North American practicality. Whether you're relocating to Montreal for work, study, or a fresh start, understanding the moving and storage options available is crucial for a smooth transition. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the process.

1. Moving to Montreal: Key Considerations

A. Planning Your Move

  • Timing: Montreal experiences harsh winters (December to March), so avoid moving during heavy snow or icy conditions unless necessary. The summer months (May to September) are ideal for moving.
  • Moving Day Tradition: July 1st is "Moving Day" in Montreal, a unique local tradition where many leases end and begin. This means moving services and trucks are in high demand, and prices can spike. Book early if you plan to move around this time.
  • Language: While Montreal is bilingual (French and English), French is the dominant language. Many service providers operate in both languages, but having some basic French phrases can be helpful.

B. Hiring a Moving Company

Montreal has a wide range of moving companies catering to different budgets and needs. Here are the main types of services offered:

  1. Full-Service Movers: These companies handle everything, including packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. Ideal for long-distance or international moves.
    • Examples: AMJ Campbell, Allied Van Lines, or local companies like Déménagement Cargo.
    • Cost: $1,000–$5,000+ depending on distance, volume, and services.
  2. Basic Moving Services: Movers will load, transport, and unload your belongings. Packing and unpacking are your responsibility.
    • Examples: Déménagement Montréal, Déménagement Economique.
    • Cost: $100–$200/hour for a team of 2–3 movers and a truck.
  3. DIY Moving with Truck Rentals: Rent a truck and handle the move yourself. This is the most budget-friendly option but requires more effort.
    • Examples: U-Haul, Discount Car and Truck Rentals, Budget Truck Rental.
    • Cost: $20–$50/day for small trucks, plus mileage and fuel.

C. Packing Supplies

  • Purchase boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and labels from stores like Home Depot, Walmart, or specialized moving supply shops.
  • Many moving companies also sell or rent packing materials.
  • Tip: Check local Facebook Marketplace or Kijiji for free or discounted moving boxes.

2. Storage Options in Montreal

If you need temporary or long-term storage, Montreal offers a variety of facilities to suit different needs. Here’s what you need to know:

A. Types of Storage Facilities

  1. Self-Storage Units: You rent a unit and store your belongings yourself. These are ideal for short-term or long-term storage.
    • Examples: Public Storage, U-Haul Storage, Depotium Mini-Entrepôt.
    • Cost: $50–$300/month depending on unit size (5x5 ft to 10x30 ft) and location.
  2. Full-Service Storage: The company picks up your items, stores them, and delivers them back when needed. This is convenient but more expensive.
    • Examples: Cubeit, MakeSpace.
    • Cost: $100–$500/month depending on volume and services.
  3. Climate-Controlled Storage: For sensitive items like electronics, artwork, or documents, climate-controlled units are available.
    • Cost: $100–$400/month depending on size.

B. Choosing a Storage Facility

  • Location: Choose a facility close to your home or workplace for easy access.
  • Security: Look for facilities with 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and individual unit locks.
  • Access Hours: Some facilities offer 24/7 access, while others have limited hours.
  • Insurance: Check if your renters or homeowners insurance covers stored items. If not, consider purchasing insurance from the storage provider.

C. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage

  • Short-Term Storage: Ideal for temporary needs, such as during a move or renovation. Look for month-to-month contracts.
  • Long-Term Storage: For extended periods, negotiate discounts for annual contracts or prepayment.

3. Relocation Procedures

A. Utilities Setup

Once you’ve moved, you’ll need to set up utilities for your new home:

  1. Electricity and Heating: Hydro-Québec is the main provider. Set up your account online or by phone at least a week before moving in.
  2. Internet and Cable: Popular providers include Bell, Videotron, and Fizz. Compare plans for speed, cost, and contract terms.
  3. Water: Water is managed by the city and included in property taxes, so tenants typically don’t need to set it up.
  4. Gas (if applicable): Énergir is the main provider for natural gas.

B. Address Change

  • Update your address with:
    • Canada Post (set up mail forwarding for 6–12 months).
    • Government services (e.g., driver’s license, health card).
    • Banks, employers, and subscription services.
  • Use the Quebec government’s online service to update multiple agencies at once: Service québécois de changement d'adresse.

4. Tips for a Smooth Move

A. Budgeting

  • Factor in all costs, including movers, truck rental, packing supplies, and storage.
  • Save money by decluttering before the move. Donate or sell items you no longer need.

B. Parking Permits

  • If you’re moving to or from a building in Montreal, you may need a temporary parking permit for the moving truck. Apply through the city’s website or at a local borough office.
    • Cost: ~$70–$100.

C. Cultural Considerations

  • Montrealers are generally friendly and helpful, but punctuality is valued. Be on time for appointments with movers or landlords.
  • Tipping movers is customary in Canada. A tip of $20–$50 per mover is standard for good service.

5. Moving and Storage Resources

A. Moving Companies

  • Déménagement Montréal: Affordable local moves.
  • AMJ Campbell: Full-service moves, including international relocation.
  • U-Haul: DIY truck rentals and storage.

B. Storage Facilities

  • Public Storage: Multiple locations, climate-controlled options.
  • Depotium Mini-Entrepôt: Affordable self-storage with flexible terms.
  • Cubeit: Portable storage solutions.

C. Online Platforms

  • Kijiji.ca: Find affordable moving services and second-hand packing supplies.
  • Facebook Marketplace: Great for finding free or cheap moving boxes.
  • MovingWaldo: A platform to compare moving companies and storage options.

6. Final Checklist for Moving to Montreal

  1. Book movers or a truck well in advance, especially if moving on July 1st.
  2. Declutter and pack efficiently, labeling all boxes.
  3. Arrange for parking permits if needed.
  4. Set up utilities and update your address.
  5. Research and book storage if required.
  6. Prepare for Montreal’s weather—ensure your belongings are protected from rain or snow during the move.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared for a seamless move to Montreal. Bon déménagement!