Filing a Complaint Against Movers in Quebec
When to File a Moving Complaint in Quebec
You should file a formal complaint when a moving company has overcharged you beyond the written estimate, damaged or lost your belongings and refuses to compensate, held your goods hostage for additional payment, or failed to show up on moving day after accepting a deposit. In Quebec, consumer protection laws are strong — but you need to act promptly and document everything.
Before filing with government agencies, send the moving company a formal demand letter by registered mail. Give them 10 business days to respond. This step is often required before escalating, and many disputes resolve at this stage once the company realizes you're serious about pursuing the matter legally.
Filing with the OPC and CNESST
The Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC) handles consumer complaints about moving companies. Visit opc.gouv.qc.ca or call 1-888-OPC-ALLO to file. You'll need your contract, receipts, correspondence, and photos of any damage. The OPC will attempt mediation and can add the company to their public complaint registry, which discourages future misconduct.
If the company is operating without proper registration, file a separate complaint with the CNESST. Unlicensed movers face fines of $2,000 to $20,000 per offence. Report the company at cnesst.gouv.qc.ca. For cases involving fraud or theft, file a police report with the SPVM (Service de police de la Ville de Montréal) — this is critical if your belongings were held hostage or money was stolen.
Taking It to Small Claims Court
Quebec's Cour des petites créances handles claims up to $15,000 without lawyers, making it accessible and affordable. Filing costs range from $107 to $302 depending on the claim amount. You can file online through the Ministère de la Justice website. Hearings typically occur within three to six months of filing.
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Prepare your case with the moving contract, before-and-after photos, the demand letter you sent, any company responses, and receipts for replacement items or repairs. Judges in Quebec's small claims court are accustomed to moving disputes and generally side with well-documented consumers. A judgment in your favour is enforceable — if the company doesn't pay, you can pursue seizure of assets through a bailiff.
