Moving From Montreal to Toronto: Complete Checklist

Everything to plan for a smooth long-distance move between Canada’s two biggest cities.

NSTNST Moving TeamOctober 12, 2026 · 4 min read

Montreal and Toronto are roughly 540 km apart — a long day on Highway 20 and the 401. Moving between them takes more planning than a local move, but with the right checklist it can be just as smooth.

How much does a Montreal to Toronto move cost?

Long-distance prices depend on volume, distance, access and date. As a guide, here are typical flat-fee ranges for a Montreal to Toronto move outside peak season:

Home size	Typical flat fee*
Studio	$1,350 – $1,650
1 bedroom	$1,750 – $2,150
2 bedrooms	$2,300 – $2,850
3 bedrooms	$3,050 – $3,750
4+ bedrooms / house	$4,000 – $4,900

*Estimates only. Get a guaranteed price with our moving cost calculator or an instant quote.

Your Montreal to Toronto moving checklist

8 weeks before

Get quotes and book a mover with long-distance experience and a guaranteed price.
Set your budget and decide which services you need (packing, storage, crating).
Start decluttering — every item you don’t move saves money.
If you have children, arrange school records and enrolment in Toronto.

4–6 weeks before

Give notice to your landlord or coordinate your sale closing date.
Book elevators and loading docks at both buildings.
Start packing non-essential items. Our packing guide can help.
Collect medical, dental and veterinary records.

2 weeks before

Set up utilities and internet at your Toronto address.
Forward your mail with Canada Post.
Update your address with your bank, employer, insurer and the CRA.
Plan your own travel — car, train or flight — and where you’ll stay if your belongings arrive the next day.

Moving week

Pack an essentials suitcase for several days.
Keep valuables, documents and medication with you.
Confirm the delivery window and share a contact number with your crew.

Paperwork after you arrive in Ontario

Driver’s licence: new Ontario residents need to exchange their Quebec licence for an Ontario one within a limited time — check ServiceOntario for current rules.
Health card: apply for OHIP as soon as you arrive, and check with the RAMQ about how long your Quebec coverage continues.
Vehicle: transfer your registration and update your car insurance.
Taxes: if you’re moving for a new job or school, some moving expenses may be tax-deductible. Ask your accountant.

NST tip: Moving on a weekday in mid-month, and avoiding late June and early July, can noticeably reduce the price of a long-distance move.

Why choose NST for your long-distance move?

We handle moves from Montreal to Toronto, Ottawa and across Canada with careful planning, a guaranteed flat-fee price and a dedicated move coordinator. Get your price in minutes.