Relocating to a new home can be exciting, but let’s be honest—it’s also expensive. Between packing materials, truck rentals, and mover fees, the cost of moving in Montreal can quickly spiral out of control. Fortunately, there are smart ways to cut down expenses without sacrificing quality or safety. In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies to help you save money when booking Montreal movers, ensuring your move is both smooth and affordable.
Explore the Montreal Moving Market
Before booking any movers, it’s important to understand what you’re dealing with. In Montreal, the cost of a local move can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on factors like the size of your home, distance traveled, and whether you require packing services.
Peak moving season in Montreal is during the summer, especially around July 1st, known locally as “Moving Day.” Prices during this period can skyrocket due to overwhelming demand.
Knowing when and why prices fluctuate will help you make better decisions and avoid getting overcharged when hiring Montreal movers.
Book Early to Avoid Price Hikes
One of the simplest ways to save money is to plan ahead and book early. Ideally, you should book your movers 4–6 weeks in advance. Last-minute bookings not only limit your options but also cost more due to emergency rates and tight schedules.
Early booking gives you more flexibility to compare services, select your ideal moving date, and avoid peak-rate periods. Plus, you’ll have more time to prepare and avoid paying extra for rushed packing or storage.
Choose the Right Moving Date
Your moving date has a huge impact on your final cost. Most people move at the end of the month or on weekends, which are the most expensive times. To cut costs:
- Opt for a mid-month move.
- Choose a weekday instead of a weekend.
- Avoid national holidays and university move-out dates.
Also, note that in Montreal, moving during winter might save you money due to reduced demand—but you’ll need to be prepared for snow and ice.
Anber Movers, one of the city’s most trusted companies, offers flexible scheduling and competitive pricing year-round, making it easier to find a budget-friendly slot.
Simplify Before You Pack and Save Money
The more stuff you move, the more you’ll pay. Movers usually charge by hourly rate or total volume, so eliminating unnecessary items can reduce time and truck space.
Here are simple ways to declutter:
- Donate gently-used items to Renaissance or Salvation Army
- Sell furniture or electronics on Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace
- Recycle old items responsibly at Eco-centres
Less clutter means fewer boxes, a smaller truck, and ultimately, a smaller bill from your Montreal movers.
Compare Multiple Quotes from Residential Movers
Never settle for the first moving company you find. Get quotes from at least 3 to 5 Residential Movers to compare services, pricing, and reliability.
Ask each mover for:
- Written estimates (not just verbal promises)
- Clear hourly or flat rates
- Inclusions like insurance, packing, disassembly/reassembly
By comparing multiple movers, you’ll find better value and avoid surprise charges later. Plus, it gives you a chance to negotiate or find a deal that fits your needs.
Pack Yourself and Save Big
Professional packing services can add hundreds of dollars to your moving costs. Unless you’re on a tight timeline or moving fragile valuables, packing yourself is one of the best ways to save.
Find free or cheap packing supplies from:
- Liquor stores
- Grocery stores
- Facebook groups like “Buy Nothing Montreal”
Label boxes by room, use towels as padding, and avoid over packing. A well-packed home makes things quicker and easier for the movers, saving both time and money.
👉 Don’t forget to highlight your Google My Business listing with a word like “location” so your customers can find directions or leave a review!
Watch Out for Hidden Fees
Some movers hit you with surprise charges on moving day. To avoid this:
- Ask upfront about fuel surcharges, long-carry fees, or stair fees
- Read the fine print in your contract
- Make sure building elevators are reserved in advance
Always request a written, all-inclusive estimate, and clarify any potential extras. If you’re ever unsure about a fee, ask for clarification before signing.
Find the Best Rated Movers and Avoid Scams
Not all movers are created equal. Some unlicensed or poorly reviewed movers may seem cheap at first—but can cost more through delays, damage, or unprofessional behaviour.
Make sure to Find the Best Rated Movers by:
- Checking Google and Yelp reviews
- Verifying license and insurance
- Avoiding cash-only services or unmarked trucks
A reputable mover will provide references, insurance coverage, and formal agreements—giving you peace of mind and protecting your wallet.
Ask for Available Discounts
Many Montreal movers offer seasonal promotions or discounts if you ask! You could qualify for:
- Student or senior discounts
- Referral bonuses (e.g., refer a friend and get 10% off)
- Off-season promos
Be sure to ask: “Do you have any current deals?” Even a small percentage off can make a difference when moving on a budget.
Consider Portable or Hybrid Moving Options
If you’re flexible and don’t need full-service movers, hybrid or self-moving options might be more affordable.
For example:
- Rent a truck and hire labor separately via apps or local services
- Use portable moving containers (like Cubeit or U-Haul U-Box)
These can reduce costs dramatically—especially for small apartments or short-distance moves in Montreal.
Use Employer Benefits or Tax Credits
If you’re moving for work, you may be eligible for tax deductions or employer-covered relocation.
In Canada, moving expenses are tax-deductible if:
- The new home is 40+ km closer to your new job or school
- You moved for employment or self-employment
Keep all receipts and consult with your accountant for eligibility. Even a partial reimbursement can significantly reduce your moving expenses.
Final Moving Budget Checklist
Before you confirm your booking with any Montreal movers, it’s essential to make sure every detail is covered to avoid last-minute expenses or surprises. A well-prepared checklist helps you stay organized, save time, and stick to your budget. Whether you’re hiring full-service movers or doing some of the work yourself, ticking off these key steps ensures a smooth and cost-effective move.
- Decluttered your home
- Compared 3+ mover quotes
- Chose a weekday, mid-month move
- Packed everything yourself
- Reserved building elevator
- Read fine print for hidden fees
- Verified mover’s reviews & license
- Asked for available discounts
Contact Us
Ready to move smart, safe, and within budget? Anber Movers has been proudly serving Montreal for years, providing trusted, affordable moving services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re moving across the street or to a new borough, we’re here to help you save without sacrificing quality.
👉 Contact us today to get your free quote and let our expert team make your move stress-free from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Saving money on your next move doesn’t require extreme effort—just smart planning, a bit of research, and asking the right questions. By choosing your moving date carefully, packing yourself, and partnering with a reputable company like Anber Movers, you can turn what’s usually a stressful experience into a smooth and affordable transition.
If you’re looking to hire Montreal movers that deliver both value and professionalism, start planning today and take control of your moving budget!
Answers to Moving Questions in Montreal
Q1. What is the average cost of hiring movers in Montreal
Ans. The average cost to hire movers in Montreal ranges from $500 to $1,500 for a local move. The price depends on factors like the size of your home, number of movers, moving date, and whether you require additional services such as packing or storage.
Q2. When is the cheapest time to move in Montreal?
Ans. The most affordable time to move is usually mid-month on a weekday, especially during the off-season (October to April). Avoid the July 1st “Moving Day” and weekends if you’re looking to save money.
Q3. How can I avoid hidden fees when hiring Montreal movers?
Ans. To avoid surprise charges:
- Request a written estimate with all costs itemized
- Ask about stair, elevator, or fuel fees
- Ensure both your origin and destination are clearly described in the contract
Q4. Do Montreal movers offer discounts for students or seniors?
Ans. Yes, many movers—including local companies like Anber Movers—offer student and senior discounts, especially during the off-peak season. It’s always a good idea to ask when requesting a quote.
Q5. Is it cheaper to rent a truck and move yourself in Montreal?
Ans. For short-distance or small moves, DIY moving with a truck rental can be cheaper. However, if you factor in time, labor, equipment, and stress, hiring affordable Montreal movers might be a more efficient and cost-effective option—especially if you compare quotes and pack yourself.