Every year, Montreal goes through a unique tradition: Moving Day. Because many leases in Quebec end on June 30, a huge number of households move on or around July 1. Streets fill with trucks, furniture appears on sidewalks and movers are booked solid.
If you are moving this year, a bit of planning makes the day far less stressful. Here is a complete Moving Day guide for Montreal renters.
Why does everyone move on July 1?
Most residential leases in Quebec run from July 1 to June 30. The tradition dates back decades and has stayed in place. The result is that thousands of tenants leave and arrive at the same time, which affects the availability of trucks, movers and even service appointments.
Three months before: plan ahead
Confirm your lease situation
If you don’t plan to renew, make sure you have respected the notice deadlines in your lease. If you are moving before the end of your lease, a lease transfer may be an option. When looking for a new place, our rental checklist before signing a lease is a useful companion.
Book your movers or truck early
Moving companies and truck rental agencies are often fully booked weeks or months before July 1. Get several quotes, check reviews and confirm in writing what is included: hourly rate, minimum hours, travel time, stairs and packing materials.
Consider moving on a different day
If your lease allows it and your landlords agree, moving a few days before or after July 1 can be easier and sometimes cheaper.
One month before: get organized
- Sort your belongings and donate or sell what you don’t need.
- Collect boxes, tape and padding.
- Book or transfer electricity, internet and insurance for your new address.
- Plan childcare or pet care for the day.
- Request a temporary parking permit from your borough if you need space for a truck.
Update your address
Change your address with the government, your bank, your employer and your subscriptions. In Quebec, you can notify several government departments at once with the address change service on Quebec.ca. Don’t forget Canada Post mail forwarding if you want to receive mail sent to your old address.
Tenant insurance
Make sure your tenant insurance covers your belongings during the move and starts at your new address on the right date. Some policies have specific conditions for items in transit, so call your insurer to confirm.
On Moving Day
Inspect your new apartment before unloading
When you arrive, take a few minutes to walk through the apartment before bringing in the furniture. Take dated photos and videos of any damage, stains or problems. Send them to your landlord by email the same day. This protects you when you move out.
Check the essentials
- Hot water, heating and electrical outlets.
- Locks on doors and windows.
- Smoke detectors.
- Appliances included in the lease.
- Signs of pests, such as droppings or bed bug traces in corners and baseboards.
If the apartment is not ready
Sometimes the previous tenant has not left on time or the unit is not clean or habitable. Document everything in writing and contact your landlord immediately. Tenants have recourse through the Tribunal administratif du logement if the landlord doesn’t deliver the apartment in good condition. Official information is available on Quebec.ca.
Leaving your old apartment
- Clean the apartment and remove all your belongings.
- Take photos of every room as you leave it.
- Return all keys and note to whom and when.
- Leave a forwarding address with your landlord.
Budgeting for your move
Moving costs add up quickly around July 1. Plan your budget in advance so there are no surprises:
- Movers or truck rental, fuel and packing supplies.
- Connection or transfer fees for internet and other services.
- The first month’s rent at your new place, which may come before you are fully settled.
- Small purchases for the new apartment: curtains, light bulbs, cleaning products.
Our article How much should you spend on rent? can help you plan your overall housing budget.
Need a place to stay?
Every year, some households find themselves without a lease on July 1. If you are at risk, start your search as early as possible and reach out to your borough and housing resources well before the end of June. Looking for a place? Browse our guide to affordable apartments for rent in Montreal.
Moving Day tips from experience
- Pack a first-night box: bedding, toiletries, chargers, medication, snacks, toilet paper and a few tools.
- Label boxes by room and content.
- Keep valuables and important documents with you.
- Plan for heat: drink water and avoid the hottest hours if you move yourself.
- Be patient: traffic, narrow streets and outdoor staircases slow everyone down.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to move on July 1 in Montreal?
No, but many leases end on June 30, which is why so many people move at the same time. If your lease ends on another date, you can move then.
How early should I book movers for July 1?
As early as possible. Many companies are fully booked well before Moving Day, so booking a few months in advance is a good idea.
What should I do if my new apartment is dirty or damaged?
Take dated photos and videos, notify your landlord in writing right away and keep all communications. If the problem isn’t fixed, the TAL can help.
Do I need a permit to park a moving truck?
In many parts of Montreal, you may need a temporary parking reservation or permit from your borough. Check with your borough a few weeks before your move.