Relocating from Ottawa to Montreal is one of the most popular intercity moves in Eastern Canada. Whether you’re moving for work, family, education, or a fresh start, choosing the right moving company, understanding quotes, and timing your move strategically can save you thousands of dollars — and a lot of stress. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know, from seasonal pricing trends to weekend booking strategies, to help you plan your Ottawa–Montreal move like a pro.
Understanding the Ottawa to Montreal Moving Route
The distance between Ottawa and Montreal is roughly 200 km, typically taking 2 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic, the size of the truck, and the number of stops. Because it’s relatively close, this route is considered a short long-distance move, making it more affordable than cross-country relocations.
However, demand between these two major cities is consistently high year-round, driven by university students, federal employees, businesses, and families. This means quotes, truck availability, and crew scheduling can vary significantly depending on season, day of the week, and how early you book.
How Moving Quotes Are Calculated for Ottawa–Montreal
Most professional movers offer two pricing models for Ottawa to Montreal relocations:
1. Flat-Rate Long-Distance Quote
A flat rate is based on the distance, estimated truck space, and required labor. This model is ideal for full-service moves where movers handle everything from packing to transportation and unloading.
Typical inclusions:
- Fuel surcharge
- Travel time between cities
- Labor for loading/unloading
- Basic insurance coverage
For a 2–3 bedroom home, expect flat-rate quotes to range between $1,200–$2,500, depending on the complexity of the move. Specialty services like piano or antique moving may increase the total price.
💡 Tip: Reviewing a detailed moving cost breakdown before booking can help you avoid unexpected fees. For example, understanding long-distance moving costs helps set realistic expectations and budget effectively.
2. Hourly Rate Plus Travel
Some companies charge an hourly rate plus travel time. This option may be cheaper for smaller moves or student relocations. For example, two movers and a truck might cost $180–$250 per hour, with a minimum number of hours required. Travel time between Ottawa and Montreal is usually added as a flat surcharge.
This model works well if:
- You have minimal furniture.
- You’re handling packing yourself.
- You need flexibility for partial moves or shared loads.
Seasonal Pricing: When to Move for the Best Rates
Spring (March–May): Early Bird Advantage
Spring is an excellent time to book your Ottawa–Montreal move. Prices are generally lower than summer, and availability is good. If you book 4–6 weeks in advance, you can often secure better rates and your preferred moving day.
Summer (June–August): Peak Season Surge
Summer is high demand season, especially around:
- June 30 – July 1: Quebec’s “Moving Day”
- University move-in periods in late August
- Federal job relocations in June and July
Rates can spike 20–40% higher, and availability becomes limited. Booking 8–10 weeks ahead is essential during this period.
📌 Moving during peak season? Check out The Best Day of the Week to Move for strategic scheduling tips that can reduce your overall cost.
Fall (September–November): Competitive Pricing Returns
As summer ends, rates start to normalize, but the weather is still favorable. Fall is perfect for those who want to avoid summer premiums without facing winter challenges.
Winter (December–February): Lowest Rates, More Risks
Winter offers the lowest quotes, often 15–25% cheaper. However, snow and icy roads can cause delays. Many companies offer flexible rescheduling in case of storms, but you should plan extra buffer time.
Weekend vs. Weekday Availability
Most families and professionals prefer Friday–Sunday moves to minimize time off work, making weekends highly competitive. Movers often charge:
- Premium weekend rates (10–15% higher)
- Earlier booking deadlines for Friday–Sunday slots
By contrast, Tuesday–Thursday moves tend to have lower rates and better availability. This is especially true during peak summer periods.
🚚 If you’re flexible, midweek moves can save you hundreds of dollars while guaranteeing priority service from experienced crews.
For business moves, relocating over the weekend may actually reduce operational downtime, especially if you’re coordinating an office move in Ottawa.
Choosing the Right Moving Company
When selecting Ottawa to Montreal movers, look for companies that specialize in long-distance routes and have transparent pricing. Key factors include:
- Experience with intercity logistics
- Proper licensing and insurance
- Flexible scheduling for weekend or evening moves
- In-home or virtual quotes for accuracy
- A proven track record of punctuality and care
For example, Prestige Moving Ottawa has earned a reputation for reliable long-distance services backed by clear pricing and insured handling of specialty items like pianos and antiques. Their professional antique furniture moving services make them a trusted option for valuable or fragile shipments.
Additionally, it’s wise to cross-check company credentials with Transport Canada and Consumer Protection Ontario to verify legitimacy and review complaint records.
Specialty Services That Affect Pricing
Certain items or circumstances can influence quotes significantly:
Piano and Antique Transport
Moving delicate, heavy, or high-value items requires specialized equipment and trained crews. Services like piano moving or antique relocation may add $300–$800 depending on complexity.
Packing and Unpacking
Full packing services can save time and reduce damage risk. Companies often charge $50–$100 per hour for packing crews, plus materials. For busy households, this can be worth the investment.
Storage Options
Some moves involve temporary storage — for example, when closing dates don’t align. Secure storage facilities add daily or monthly fees, depending on duration and space required.
How to Get Accurate Ottawa–Montreal Moving Quotes
To receive accurate quotes, provide movers with detailed information:
- Exact pickup and delivery addresses
- Number of rooms and large furniture items
- Preferred moving date and flexibility
- Required services (packing, storage, specialty handling)
- Elevator access, parking permits, or stairs involved
Many companies now offer virtual surveys using video calls, making it easy to get precise estimates without in-person visits.
For transparent pricing structures, reviewing Prestige’s pricing page gives you a solid benchmark of competitive Ottawa moving rates.
Tips for Booking Your Ottawa to Montreal Move
- Book early, especially for weekend or summer moves.
- Compare at least three quotes to evaluate service levels, not just price.
- Read reviews carefully to check reliability and hidden fees.
- Confirm insurance coverage for valuable items.
- Check for travel time surcharges, especially if movers return the same day.
- Avoid last-minute bookings during peak dates like July 1st.
For more cost-saving strategies, explore How to Save Money with Moving in Ottawa — a practical resource for budget-conscious relocations.
Final Steps and Booking
Once you’ve compared quotes and chosen your mover, confirm your booking in writing, including:
- Final price and services included
- Exact dates and times
- Payment structure (deposit, balance)
- Cancellation and rescheduling policies
To secure your moving date, you can book directly online or speak with a relocation consultant.
Conclusion
Moving from Ottawa to Montreal doesn’t have to be complicated or overpriced. By understanding how quotes work, choosing the right season, and booking strategically, you can save money while ensuring a smooth, stress-free relocation. Whether you’re downsizing, moving your business, or transporting heirlooms, partnering with an experienced, transparent moving company will make all the difference.
For personalized quotes and weekend availability, reach out to the Prestige Moving contact team and secure your spot well in advance.