Moving Abroad from Montreal: International Moving Guide

International Shipping Methods from Montreal

Moving abroad from Montreal typically involves ocean freight, air freight, or a combination of both. Ocean freight is the most cost-effective option for full household shipments and comes in two forms: Full Container Load (FCL), where you rent an entire 20-foot or 40-foot shipping container, and Less than Container Load (LCL), where your goods share container space with other shipments.

A 20-foot container holds roughly the contents of a one- to two-bedroom apartment; a 40-foot container accommodates a three- to four-bedroom home. FCL shipping from Montreal's port to European destinations (London, Paris, Amsterdam) takes 10–14 days. Destinations in Asia (Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore) take 25–35 days. LCL shipments add 5–10 days for consolidation and deconsolidation at ports.

Air freight is dramatically faster but proportionally more expensive—roughly 4–6 times the cost of ocean freight per cubic metre. It's typically reserved for essentials you need immediately upon arrival: clothing, documents, electronics, and small valuables. A typical air shipment of 3–5 boxes costs $1,500–$3,000 from Montreal to major European or Asian cities.

International Moving Costs from Montreal

Ocean freight costs from Montreal vary by destination and volume. For a one-bedroom apartment (20-foot container), expect: $3,000–$5,000 to Western Europe, $4,000–$6,500 to the UK, $5,500–$8,000 to Asia-Pacific, and $4,500–$7,000 to Australia/New Zealand. Two-bedroom households (40-foot container) roughly double these figures.

These base costs cover port-to-port shipping. Add origin services (packing, loading, trucking to port: $1,500–$3,000), destination services (customs clearance, trucking from port, unloading: $1,500–$4,000), and marine insurance (1–3% of declared value). All-in, a full international move from Montreal can range from $8,000 for a small load to Europe to $25,000+ for a large household to Australia.

Customs & Documentation for International Moves

Every country has its own customs regulations for importing household goods. Most countries allow duty-free importation of used personal effects if you can prove prior ownership (typically one year or more) and present proper documentation. Required documents generally include: a detailed packing list with item descriptions and values, passport copies, visa or work permit for the destination country, a declaration of goods form, and proof of prior residence in Canada.

Prohibited and restricted items vary widely. Alcohol, firearms, medications, food products, plants, and certain electronics face restrictions or outright bans in many countries. Some destinations (Australia, New Zealand) require fumigation or heat treatment of wooden furniture and packing materials. Your international moving company should provide a country-specific customs guide and handle customs brokerage at both ends.

Preparing for Life Abroad from Montreal

Beyond logistics, an international move requires significant life preparation. Financial tasks include: notifying the CRA of your departure and filing a departure return (you may owe departure tax on certain assets), closing or maintaining Canadian bank accounts, understanding tax obligations in your destination country, and setting up foreign banking.

Cancel or suspend Canadian services: driver's licence (you may keep it or surrender it depending on the province's policy for non-residents), health card (notify RAMQ of your departure), auto insurance, and utilities. If maintaining Canadian property, arrange property management. Research your destination's healthcare system, schooling options (international schools for expat families), and any cultural or legal differences that will affect daily life.

Up & Out partners with international moving specialists to offer complete overseas relocation services from Montreal. From packing and ocean freight to customs clearance at your destination, we coordinate the entire process. Contact us for your free international moving quote.