Montreal to Toronto Moving Guide: Everything You Need
Montreal to Toronto: Distance, Route & Travel Time
The drive from Montreal to Toronto covers approximately 540 km, mostly along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 401 in Ontario and Autoroute 20 in Quebec). A moving truck typically completes this journey in about 5.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on traffic through Kingston and the Greater Toronto Area.
Most professional movers depart Montreal early in the morning, aiming to arrive in Toronto by mid-afternoon. The route passes through Cornwall, where you officially cross from Quebec into Ontario, and continues through Brockville, Kingston, and Belleville before reaching the GTA. If traffic on the 401 near Toronto is heavy, some drivers opt for Highway 407 (a toll route) to save time.
Weather is a major factor for moves between November and March. Snowstorms along the 401 corridor near Kingston can add hours to the trip or force delays. If you have flexibility, booking your move during the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) gives you the best balance of pricing and weather reliability.
How Much Does It Cost to Move from Montreal to Toronto?
For a typical one-bedroom apartment, expect to pay between $1,800 and $2,800 for a full-service move from Montreal to Toronto. A two-bedroom ranges from $2,500 to $4,000, and a three-bedroom home can cost $3,500 to $6,000 or more depending on the volume of belongings and any specialty items like pianos or antiques.
These prices generally include loading, transport, and unloading. Packing services, insurance upgrades, and storage add to the total. Consolidated shipping—where your belongings share truck space with another customer's load—can reduce costs by 20–40%, though delivery windows become less predictable.
Administrative Tasks: Quebec to Ontario Transition
Moving from Quebec to Ontario means switching provinces, which triggers a list of administrative changes. You'll need to obtain an Ontario health card (OHIP) within three months of establishing residency. Your Quebec RAMQ coverage continues for the transition period, but don't let it lapse.
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You must also exchange your Quebec driver's licence for an Ontario one within 60 days. Visit a ServiceOntario centre with your Quebec licence, proof of address, and identification. Ontario uses a graduated licensing system, but if you hold a full Class 5 Quebec licence, you'll receive a full G licence without retesting.
Don't forget to update your address with the CRA, transfer vehicle registration, and notify Hydro-Québec to close your account while setting up with Toronto Hydro or your local utility provider. If you have children, research Ontario school enrollment timelines—registration deadlines vary by school board.
Choosing the Right Montreal-to-Toronto Movers
Not every moving company handles interprovincial routes. Look for movers licensed to operate in both Quebec and Ontario with clear experience on the Montreal–Toronto corridor. Ask for references from recent long-distance customers and verify that the company carries adequate cargo insurance.
Get at least three written quotes. A reputable mover will offer an in-home or video survey rather than quoting sight-unseen. Watch for lowball estimates that balloon on moving day—binding quotes protect you from surprises. Up & Out provides transparent flat-rate pricing for the Montreal-to-Toronto route, including fuel, tolls, and basic coverage.
