Moving to a new home or office in Montreal can be an exciting chapter—but it can also become a logistical nightmare if not planned carefully. From traffic congestion to limited parking and sky-high demand during peak seasons, organizing a successful move in this city takes strategy, time, and the right support.
At Déménagement A Plus, we’ve helped hundreds of residents and businesses relocate efficiently. Along the way, we’ve identified the 10 most common mistakes that cause stress, extra costs, and delays—and more importantly, how you can avoid them.
Let’s dive into the top moving pitfalls in Montreal and how to stay one step ahead.
1. Underestimating the Time Needed to Plan
One of the most frequent mistakes? Thinking you can pull off a successful move in just a few days. Between sorting, packing, paperwork, and booking movers, you should plan at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance.
How to Avoid It:
Create a reverse timeline leading to your moving day
Book your moving company early, especially if you’re moving between May and July
Schedule time to notify service providers and update your address
👉 For a full planning checklist, read:
Residential Moving in Montreal: How to Get Organized the Right Way
2. Choosing a Mover Based Only on Price
It’s tempting to go with the lowest quote—but this can backfire. Some “cheap” movers charge hidden fees, offer substandard service, or don’t show up at all.
How to Avoid It:
Ask for a detailed quote that breaks down all costs (labor, travel, equipment, insurance)
Check online reviews (Google, HomeStars)
Ensure the mover is licensed and insured
👉 Learn how to evaluate moving companies here:
Moving in Montreal: Choosing the Right Moving Service
3. Not Reserving Parking for the Moving Truck
Montreal is notorious for difficult parking. Without a reserved spot, your movers may have to park blocks away—wasting time, money, and energy.
How to Avoid It:
Apply for a temporary parking permit with the city
Reserve a spot in front of your home or building using cones or a personal vehicle
Notify neighbors and property managers in advance
4. Poor Packing or Lack of Protection for Fragile Items
Scratched furniture. Broken mirrors. Shattered glassware. Most damage occurs not during transport—but due to poor packaging.
How to Avoid It:
Use proper materials: bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, packing blankets
Label every box with room name and contents
For fragile or high-value items, let professionals handle the wrapping and loading
5. Forgetting to Notify Service Providers and Institutions
Moving means more than just changing your address—it involves updating your contact info with dozens of organizations.
Who to Notify:
Utilities (Hydro-Québec, internet provider, cellphone company)
Government agencies (RAMQ, Revenu Québec, Canada Revenue Agency)
Banks and insurance companies
Employers, schools, doctors, subscription services
👉 Use this administrative checklist:
Who to Notify When Changing Your Address
6. Trying to Do Everything Yourself
Sure, you could rent a truck, call a few friends, and move solo—but that’s a recipe for injury, delays, and broken belongings.
Why Hire a Pro Instead:
Safer handling of heavy or delicate items
Time-saving and stress-reducing
Professional tools (dollies, straps, padding)
Insurance coverage in case of damage
👉 Learn why peace of mind is worth the investment:
Your Trusted Moving Service in Montreal: Stress-Free Relocation Starts Here
7. Booking Too Late During Peak Season
Montreal’s peak moving season is around July 1st. If you wait too long to reserve, you’ll face limited availability—or inflated prices.
How to Avoid It:
Book your move 1–2 months in advance
Avoid weekends and the last few days of the month if possible
Consider moving mid-week for better availability and lower rates
8. Not Having Insurance for Your Belongings
Accidents happen. A dropped sofa, a scratched TV, a dented dresser… Without insurance, you might have to cover the cost yourself.
How to Avoid It:
Check what’s covered under the mover’s basic liability insurance
Ask about full-coverage options for high-value items
Read the contract carefully to understand your rights
9. Ignoring the Impact on Kids and Pets
A move is a major disruption—for children and pets especially. The sudden change in environment can be confusing, stressful, and emotional.
How to Avoid It:
Talk to your kids ahead of time and involve them in the process
Prepare a “comfort kit” with toys, snacks, and familiar items
Arrange daycare or pet-sitting on moving day to minimize chaos
10. Failing to Plan Your New Layout in Advance
Think you’re done once the truck is unloaded? Think again. Unpacking and organizing your new space is often more exhausting than the move itself.
How to Avoid It:
Label boxes clearly by room and priority
Have a floor plan ready with furniture placements
Unpack essentials first: kitchen, bathroom, bedroom
🔄 Bonus Resources
For further reading, check out our other guides:
🔗 Long-Distance Moving from Montreal: What You Need to Know Before You Go
🔗 Residential Moving in Montreal: How to Get Organized the Right Way
✅ Conclusion
Avoiding these 10 common mistakes can mean the difference between a chaotic, expensive move—and a smooth, stress-free transition. With proper planning, the right partners, and expert advice, moving in Montreal can be much easier than you think.
At Déménagement A Plus, we offer comprehensive, transparent services tailored to your needs—from local to long-distance moves, delicate furniture transport, and commercial relocation. Contact us for a personalized quote and experience the peace of mind that comes with working with true professionals.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. When should I start planning my move in Montreal?
Start at least 6 to 8 weeks in advance, especially during peak months like June and July.
2. Can movers disassemble and reassemble my furniture?
Absolutely. Our team handles everything from beds to complex items like pool tables.
3. How much does a move in the Montreal area cost?
It depends on the distance, amount of furniture, number of floors, and services required. Contact us for a detailed quote.
4. Is it okay to move without hiring professionals?
It’s possible, but risky. Without proper equipment and experience, you’re more likely to damage belongings or injure yourself.
5. How can I prevent damage during transport?
Use professional packing materials, label fragile items, and trust experienced movers for heavy or delicate items.
6. What services does Déménagement A Plus offer?
We handle residential and commercial moves, long-distance relocations, packing, assembly, storage, and specialty furniture like pool tables.
