How to Verify Licensed Movers in Quebec (CNESST Check)
Why a CNESST Licence Matters for Quebec Movers
In Quebec, any company that transports household goods for a fee must be registered with the Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST). This registration ensures that workers are covered by Quebec's workplace injury insurance and that the company meets basic safety standards. Hiring an unlicensed mover means you have virtually no legal recourse if something goes wrong.
The CNESST licence is separate from a Registraire des entreprises (REQ) business registration. A company can have a valid REQ number but still operate without a CNESST file in good standing. Both should be verified before you sign a contract.
How to Check a Mover's CNESST Licence Online
Visit the CNESST website and use the employer compliance verification tool. Enter the company name or NEQ (Quebec enterprise number) to see if their file is active and in good standing. The status should show "conforme" (compliant). If it shows "non conforme" or the company does not appear at all, do not hire them.
You can also call the CNESST directly at 1-844-838-0808 to confirm a company's status. Additionally, check the Registraire des entreprises du Québec (REQ) at registreentreprises.gouv.qc.ca to verify the company is a legal entity and see who the directors are. Cross-reference the company name with OPC complaints for a full picture.
Other Credentials to Verify Before Hiring
Beyond the CNESST, ask for proof of liability insurance — a minimum of $2 million is standard in the industry. Request a certificate of insurance directly from their insurer, not just a photocopy. Verify their membership in professional associations like the Association du camionnage du Québec (ACQ) for extra peace of mind.
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Check Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, and the OPC complaint database. A pattern of complaints about damaged goods, late arrivals, or price inflation is a clear warning. Legitimate companies like Up & Out welcome scrutiny — we publish our credentials on our website and happily provide verification on request.
