Hidden Moving Costs in Montreal You Didn't Expect
Building Access Fees You Didn't Budget For
Many Montreal condos and newer apartment buildings charge fees related to moving. A refundable elevator deposit of $200–$500 is standard in most condo buildings — you get it back if nothing gets damaged, but you need that cash upfront. Some buildings also charge a non-refundable booking fee of $50–$100 just to reserve the elevator and loading dock.
Then there are time restrictions. Many buildings limit moves to weekdays between 9 AM and 5 PM. If your movers charge hourly and the elevator is shared with other tenants moving the same day, you're paying for every minute of waiting. Check your building's moving rules at least two weeks before your move date.
Parking Permits and No-Parking Zones
If your street doesn't have a driveway — which is most of Montreal — the moving truck needs somewhere to park. The City of Montreal issues temporary no-parking permits for $75–$150, depending on the borough. Without one, the truck may double-park (risking a $52–$154 ticket) or park far away, adding significant time and cost.
The permit process takes 3–5 business days in most boroughs. Some moving companies handle this for you, but they charge a convenience fee of $25–$50 on top. In Le Plateau-Mont-Royal and Ville-Marie, these permits are essentially mandatory — street parking is too competitive to risk it.
Packing Materials and Specialty Handling
Most moving quotes assume you're packed and ready. If you're not, packing services add $200–$600 depending on home size. Even self-packing costs $50–$150 in supplies: boxes, tape, bubble wrap, wardrobe boxes, and mattress covers.
Planning Your Move?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from Montreal's most trusted movers in under 2 minutes.
Specialty items carry their own hidden costs. A piano costs $200–$600 extra. A pool table runs $300–$500. A heavy safe, treadmill, or antique armoire can each add $75–$200 to your bill. If your mover doesn't know about these items in advance, expect a price adjustment on moving day.
Tips, Insurance, and Taxes
Tipping movers is customary in Montreal — most people tip $20–$40 per mover, adding $60–$160 for a crew of three. Moving insurance beyond basic coverage ($0.60/lb) costs $75–$200 for full-value protection.
Don't forget GST (5%) and QST (9.975%) on your moving bill. On a $1,000 move, that's nearly $150 in taxes alone. Always ask whether your quote includes or excludes taxes — it makes a real difference in your total budget.
