Long-Distance Moving in Quebec: Complete Guide 2026

What Is a Long-Distance Move in Quebec?

Moving within Quebec involves far more than simply driving a truck from one address to another. A long-distance move refers to any relocation covering more than 100 kilometres between your starting point and your destination. At that scale, the process requires rigorous logistics, thorough planning and a level of professionalism that goes well beyond a local move within the same Montreal neighbourhood.

With its vast territory and many thriving cities, Quebec generates a significant volume of long-distance moves every year. Whether you are leaving Montreal for a job in Quebec City, moving closer to family in Sherbrooke, or crossing the provincial border to Ottawa for a new opportunity, the challenge remains the same: how do you transport your entire life from point A to point B safely and without excessive stress?

The fundamental difference between a local move and a long-distance move exists on several levels. First, transit time is considerably longer, meaning your belongings spend more time in the truck and are exposed to more road vibrations. Second, the logistics are more complex: loading and unloading schedules must account for driving time, mandatory driver rest stops, and sometimes even changing weather conditions over long distances. Finally, pricing is structured differently — it is no longer just an hourly rate, but a combination of factors including distance, volume, weight and additional services.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore in detail the most popular routes in Quebec, the costs to expect, the key planning steps, the importance of insurance, and why trusting an experienced company like PMG Moving can make all the difference. If you are currently planning your next long-distance move, this guide is designed to support you at every stage of the process.

Popular Long-Distance Moving Routes

Quebec has a well-developed highway network connecting its major cities. Here are the five most frequently used long-distance moving corridors departing from Montreal, along with the practical details you need to know for each route.

Route	Distance	Driving Time	Main Highway
Montreal — Quebec City	250 km	2 h 45 min	A-20 / A-40
Montreal — Ottawa	200 km	2 h 15 min	A-40 / A-417
Montreal — Gatineau	195 km	2 h 10 min	A-50 / A-15
Montreal — Sherbrooke	150 km	1 h 40 min	A-10
Montreal — Trois-Rivieres	130 km	1 h 30 min	A-40

Montreal — Quebec City (250 km)

The Montreal-Quebec City corridor is the most popular long-distance route in the province. Primarily following Highway 20 along the south shore of the St. Lawrence, or Highway 40 along the north shore, this two-hour-forty-five-minute trip is well-serviced and generally smooth outside of rush hour. The provincial capital attracts many civil servants, university students and professionals, making it a very active moving corridor, especially in summer and around July 1st. For this route, it is essential to plan loading early in the morning to allow for transport and unloading on the same day.

Montreal — Ottawa (200 km)

Moving between Montreal and Ottawa crosses the Quebec-Ontario border, making it an interprovincial move. This two-hour-fifteen-minute trip follows Highway 40 and then the 417 towards the federal capital. Ottawa attracts many Montrealers thanks to the federal job market and a booming tech sector. At PMG, we have hands-on experience with this route — you can visit our Portfolio page to see an example of a complete residential move we carried out between Montreal and Ottawa. This type of interprovincial move requires special attention to each province's regulations.

Montreal — Gatineau (195 km)

Gatineau, Ottawa's sister city located on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River, is a popular option for federal workers who want to benefit from Quebec's lower cost of living while working in the capital. The route typically follows Highway 50 or Highway 15 North, depending on the starting point in Montreal. Although the distance is slightly shorter than to Ottawa, road conditions and logistics remain similar. Moving to Gatineau stays entirely within Quebec, which simplifies certain administrative aspects compared to a move to Ottawa.

Montreal — Sherbrooke (150 km)

Highway 10 connects Montreal to Sherbrooke, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the Eastern Townships. This one-hour-forty-minute route is relatively direct and pleasant, but it includes some winding mountain sections that require careful driving with a loaded moving truck. Sherbrooke, a university town and regional economic hub, welcomes students, professors and professionals from Montreal every year. The busiest moving period on this corridor coincides with the September and January university terms.

Montreal — Trois-Rivieres (130 km)

Trois-Rivieres, a historic city located halfway between Montreal and Quebec City on Highway 40, is reachable in about one hour and thirty minutes from Montreal. It is the shortest long-distance route on our list, but it still requires professional planning to ensure the safety of your belongings over this distance. The route is simple and direct, making it one of the smoothest long-distance moves from a logistical standpoint. Trois-Rivieres is experiencing an economic and cultural revival that is attracting a growing number of Montrealers seeking a quieter pace of life and more affordable housing.

How Much Does a Long-Distance Move Cost?

One of the most important aspects of planning a long-distance move is budgeting. Unlike a local move that is billed primarily by the hour, long-distance moving involves several cost factors that add up. Understanding these factors will help you obtain realistic quotes and avoid unpleasant financial surprises.

Factors That Influence the Price

• Total distance: This is the most obvious factor. The greater the distance between your starting point and your destination, the higher the fuel costs, vehicle wear and driving time. A Montreal-Trois-Rivieres move (130 km) will naturally cost less than a Montreal-Quebec City move (250 km).
• Volume and weight: The amount of belongings to transport determines the truck size needed and the number of movers required. A studio apartment requires a smaller truck than a 5.5-room house with a garage and basement.
• Season: Peak moving season in Quebec runs from May to September, with an absolute peak around July 1st. During this period, prices can increase by 20 to 40% due to high demand. If your schedule allows, moving in autumn or winter will save you significantly.
• Additional services: Professional packing, furniture disassembly and reassembly, handling of specialty items (piano, hot tub, safe) and temporary storage are all services that add to the total cost but can greatly simplify your move.
• Accessibility: Walk-up buildings without an elevator, narrow hallways, distant parking or street parking restrictions can affect loading and unloading time, and therefore the final cost.

2026 Price Estimates

Here are indicative price ranges for a long-distance move in Quebec in 2026. These estimates are for a 4.5-room apartment with an average volume of furniture and personal belongings.

• Montreal — Trois-Rivieres (130 km): $1,000 to $2,200
• Montreal — Sherbrooke (150 km): $1,200 to $2,500
• Montreal — Gatineau (195 km): $1,300 to $2,700
• Montreal — Ottawa (200 km): $1,200 to $2,500
• Montreal — Quebec City (250 km): $1,500 to $3,000

These ranges are general estimates. The exact price depends on your particular situation. That is why we always recommend requesting a free, personalized quote before making your decision. For a detailed look at our base rates, visit our Rates page.

Tip: when comparing quotes from different movers, make sure you are comparing equivalent services. The lowest price is not always the best deal — a professional and reliable mover can save you from hidden costs and property damage that far exceed the initial price difference.

How to Plan Your Long-Distance Move

The key to a successful long-distance move lies in meticulous planning. Unlike a local move where you can adjust fairly easily, a move over 150 to 250 kilometres leaves little room for improvisation. Here is a detailed planning timeline to guide you step by step.

6 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Request quotes from three to five professional movers. Check their CNESST certification and online reviews before contacting them.
• Begin a complete inventory of your belongings. Room by room, note every major item and take photos of your furniture and valuables.
• Identify items you do not wish to move. Sell, donate or recycle what you no longer need — less volume means a lower moving cost.
• Notify your current landlord and confirm the end-of-lease date and availability of your new home.

4 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Choose your mover and sign the contract. Make sure all details — date, rates, included services, insurance — are clearly stated in writing.
• Order your packing supplies: boxes in various sizes, packing paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, permanent markers and mattress covers.
• Begin packing non-essential items: seasonal decorations, books, off-season clothing, collectibles.
• Complete your address changes: Canada Post, Revenu Quebec, Canada Revenue Agency, SAAQ, RAMQ, banks, insurance companies, subscriptions.

2 Weeks Before Moving Day

• Continue packing, focusing on secondary rooms (guest room, home office, basement). Label each box clearly with its contents and destination room.
• Arrange the transfer or cancellation of your utilities: Hydro-Quebec, Internet, natural gas, home security.
• Confirm logistical details with your mover: arrival time, parking access, elevator reservation if applicable.
• Prepare a survival kit for moving day: important documents, medications, toiletries, chargers, a change of clothes and snacks.

The Day Before and Moving Day

• Finish packing the kitchen and last-minute items. Empty and unplug the refrigerator the night before.
• Disassemble furniture that requires it and keep the hardware in labelled bags for each piece.
• Do a final walkthrough of every room, every closet and every corner to make sure nothing is left behind.
• Be present during loading and unloading to answer the movers' questions and check the condition of your belongings.

Insurance and Protection: Why It Matters Even More for Long-Distance Moves

When your belongings travel 150, 200 or 250 kilometres on Quebec's roads, the risk of damage increases proportionally. Constant road vibrations, temperature fluctuations, sudden stops and unpredictable road conditions — especially in winter — all pose potential threats to your furniture, electronics and fragile items. That is why insurance is not a luxury during a long-distance move: it is an absolute necessity.

CNESST Certification: Your First Line of Protection

The Commission des normes, de l'equite, de la sante et de la securite du travail (CNESST) governs working conditions in Quebec. A CNESST-certified mover guarantees that its employees are covered in case of a workplace accident. If a mover is injured at your home during the move and is not covered by the CNESST, you, as the homeowner or tenant, could be held liable. Always verify the certification number before signing a contract.

General Liability Insurance

Beyond CNESST certification, your mover must carry general liability insurance covering damage to your belongings during transport. Ask to see the insurance certificate and check the coverage limits. For a long-distance move, where your belongings spend several hours in transit, this coverage is even more critical. Certain high-value items — artwork, musical instruments, antiques — may require additional, specific coverage.

Your Home Insurance

Contact your home insurance company before the move. Some policies cover your belongings in transit, others do not. Clarify the terms of your coverage and, if necessary, add a temporary rider for the moving period. It is a minor investment that can protect you against major losses.

In summary, never cut corners on protection for a long-distance move. An uninsured mover who breaks your flat-screen TV or scratches your hardwood floor has no legal obligation to compensate you. Choose a certified and insured mover — your peace of mind depends on it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Distance Moving