December Moving in Montreal: Holiday Season Tips
Moving During Montreal's Holiday Season
December in Montreal is a month of contrasts for movers. On one hand, it's deep off-season with excellent rates and wide availability. On the other, you're dealing with winter weather, shorter days, and the complications of moving during the holiday season. If you can juggle the logistics, December offers real value.
The holiday factor adds a layer of complexity. Moving companies often have reduced schedules during the last two weeks of December, with some shutting down entirely between Christmas and New Year's. If you're planning a December move, the first two weeks are your best window — full crew availability, off-season pricing, and no holiday conflicts.
December Weather and Winter Conditions
By December, Montreal is fully in winter mode. Average temperatures range from -12°C to -3°C, and snow is a regular occurrence. The city's snow removal operations are in full swing, which means you need to watch for parking bans and plow schedules on your moving day.
December's shorter days are a major planning factor. With sunrise around 7:30 AM and sunset by 4:15 PM, you have fewer than 9 hours of daylight. Start your move early and plan to be done by mid-afternoon. Moving heavy furniture in darkness, on icy surfaces, is a recipe for accidents.
December Rates and Holiday Scheduling
December rates are firmly in off-season territory — 20-30% below summer pricing. The first two weeks offer the best combination of availability and pricing. The week between Christmas and New Year's can be tricky: some companies are closed, while others offer deep discounts for the few clients willing to move during the holidays.
Planning Your Move?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from Montreal's most trusted movers in under 2 minutes.
If you're flexible and don't mind spending Christmas week unpacking boxes, you might score the lowest rates of the entire year. Just confirm well in advance that your chosen company is operating during the holiday week, and verify their crew availability.
Practical Tips for a December Move
Coordinate your move around holiday events and gatherings. Nothing kills the festive spirit like spending Christmas Eve assembling furniture. Aim to have the big move done at least a week before Christmas so you can enjoy the holidays in your new space.
Pack holiday decorations last and unpack them first at your new place. If you're moving mid-December, you might want to set up a small tree or some lights right away — it makes the new space feel festive and helps with the emotional transition, especially for families with children. A move doesn't have to mean missing out on the holiday spirit.
