Montreal to Ottawa Movers: Professional Same-Day Moving Services
Current Information: Rates and delivery times updated for January 2026. Same-day express service available on this route.
Pro Action Transport provides professional moving services from Montreal to Ottawa, connecting Quebec's largest city to Canada's national capital. As a certified Great Canadian Van Lines agent, we offer the unique advantage of same-day express service on this 200-kilometer corridor, making us the ideal choice for time-sensitive relocations between these two major centers. Since 2017, we have successfully completed hundreds of Montreal to Ottawa moves for families, government employees, professionals, and businesses navigating this important interprovincial transition.
The Montreal-Ottawa corridor represents our shortest major long distance route, yet it carries significant volume due to the constant flow of professionals between Quebec's economic hub and Canada's political capital. This proximity allows us to offer service options unavailable on longer routes, including same-day pickup and delivery for customers with urgent timelines. Whether you're a federal employee transferring between departments, a professional taking a new position in the National Capital Region, or a family seeking opportunities in either city, Pro Action Transport delivers the reliability and flexibility this corridor demands.
Montreal to Ottawa Route Overview
The Montreal-Ottawa moving corridor covers approximately 200 kilometers along Highway 417, making it one of Canada's most frequently traveled interprovincial routes. This relatively short distance between Quebec and Ontario enables unique service flexibility that longer routes cannot match. The journey typically takes two to two and a half hours under normal traffic conditions, allowing our crews to complete same-day moves that pick up in Montreal in the morning and deliver to Ottawa by evening.
Ottawa's position as Canada's national capital creates consistent demand for moving services throughout the year. Government transfers, diplomatic relocations, and the constant movement of professionals between Montreal's corporate sector and Ottawa's federal institutions ensure steady traffic on this corridor. The bilingual nature of both cities means our French-English service capability is particularly valuable for customers on this route, providing seamless communication regardless of language preference.
The National Capital Region extends beyond Ottawa proper to include Gatineau on the Quebec side, creating a unique cross-border metropolitan area. Pro Action Transport serves the entire region, including Ottawa neighborhoods from the Glebe to Kanata, Orleans to Barrhaven, as well as Gatineau, Hull, Aylmer, and surrounding communities. This comprehensive coverage means we handle moves within the NCR as well as relocations from Montreal to any destination in the greater Ottawa-Gatineau area.
Montreal to Ottawa Moving Costs
The short distance between Montreal and Ottawa translates to more affordable moving costs compared to our longer interprovincial routes. Several factors influence your final price, and Pro Action Transport provides transparent quotes that detail each component clearly.
Pricing Overview
Montreal to Ottawa moving costs typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 for most residential moves. This range reflects the variation in home sizes, service levels, and timing preferences among our customers on this corridor.
For a studio or small one-bedroom apartment, moving costs from Montreal to Ottawa typically range from $1,500 to $2,200. Two-bedroom apartments and small homes generally fall between $2,000 and $3,200. Three-bedroom homes range from $3,000 to $4,200. Larger four-bedroom homes and residences with significant belongings start at $4,000 and can reach $5,500 or more depending on volume and special handling requirements.
These estimates include loading in Montreal, transport to Ottawa, and unloading at your destination. Additional services such as professional packing, temporary storage, and specialty item handling are quoted separately based on your specific needs.
Factors Affecting Your Moving Cost
Volume and weight represent the primary cost factors for Montreal to Ottawa moves. We calculate charges based on the total cubic footage of your belongings or shipment weight, depending on which method provides better value for your particular move. The short distance means transportation costs are lower than longer routes, making volume the most significant variable in your quote.
Timing influences pricing through seasonal demand patterns. Summer months from May through September represent peak moving season, with July 1st being particularly busy due to Quebec's traditional moving day. Federal government fiscal year-end in March also creates increased demand as departments complete transfers before budget cycles close. Moves scheduled during quieter periods often benefit from greater scheduling flexibility and potentially lower rates.
Service level selection allows you to control costs based on your preferences. Our standard service includes loading, transport, and unloading. Same-day express service, which guarantees pickup and delivery within the same day, carries a premium of approximately 15 to 25 percent over standard service but provides maximum convenience for time-sensitive moves. Professional packing services add approximately 15 to 25 percent to your total cost but save significant preparation time.
Same-Day Express vs Standard Service
Our same-day express service provides pickup in Montreal and delivery to Ottawa within the same day, typically with morning pickup and evening delivery. This option is ideal for customers who need to be present at both ends of the move, those with tight timelines between lease dates, or professionals who cannot take multiple days off work. Same-day service costs approximately 15 to 25 percent more than standard service but eliminates the need for overnight accommodation or multiple trips between cities.
Standard service offers flexible scheduling within a one to three day window, which can reduce costs for customers without urgent timing requirements. This option works well for moves where you have flexibility on your Ottawa arrival date or when coordinating with real estate closing dates that provide a buffer period.
Delivery Timeline: Montreal to Ottawa
The 200-kilometer distance between Montreal and Ottawa enables delivery options unavailable on our longer routes. Pro Action Transport offers multiple timeline choices to match your specific requirements and schedule.
Same-Day Express Service
Our same-day express service is the signature offering on the Montreal-Ottawa corridor. With morning pickup in Montreal, typically beginning between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, we deliver to your Ottawa destination by evening, usually between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM depending on the size of your move. This service allows you to wake up in Montreal and sleep in your new Ottawa home the same night, with all your belongings in place.
Same-day service is particularly popular with professionals who cannot take extended time off work, families with children who want to minimize disruption, and customers whose lease dates in Montreal and Ottawa align on the same day. The two-hour drive between cities, combined with efficient loading and unloading by our experienced crews, makes this rapid turnaround possible.
Standard Service: 1 to 3 Days
Our standard service provides delivery within one to three days of your Montreal pickup. This option offers scheduling flexibility and can accommodate customers whose Ottawa move-in date falls a day or two after their Montreal departure. Standard service operates on our regular route schedule and provides a cost-effective option for customers without same-day requirements.
Most standard service customers receive their belongings within 24 to 48 hours of pickup. The short distance means we can often deliver the next day, though we quote a one to three day window to accommodate scheduling variations and ensure we meet our commitments reliably.
Flexible Scheduling Options
We understand that coordinating move-out and move-in dates between Montreal and Ottawa requires flexibility. Pro Action Transport offers several options to accommodate various scenarios. Scheduled delivery on a specific date can be arranged when you need certainty for your Ottawa arrival. Storage options at our Laval facility provide a buffer if your Ottawa residence isn't ready when you need to vacate Montreal. Weekend moves are available for customers who prefer to relocate without taking time off work.
Why Choose Pro Action Transport for Your Montreal to Ottawa Move
The Montreal-Ottawa corridor is served by numerous moving companies, but Pro Action Transport offers distinct advantages that make us the preferred choice for this important interprovincial route.
Same-Day Service Capability
Our same-day express service sets us apart on the Montreal-Ottawa corridor. While many movers require multi-day timelines even for short distances, our efficient operations and dedicated crews enable reliable same-day delivery. This capability reflects our understanding that modern professionals and families often cannot afford multiple days of disruption for a 200-kilometer move.
Bilingual Service Excellence
The Montreal-Ottawa corridor connects two bilingual cities, and our team reflects this reality. Every customer receives service in their preferred language, whether French or English, from initial consultation through final delivery. This bilingual capability is particularly valuable for federal government employees, diplomatic personnel, and the many families who operate in both languages daily. Clear communication in your language of choice reduces stress and ensures your specific requirements are understood and met.
Great Canadian Van Lines Network
Our certification with Great Canadian Van Lines, Canada's highest-rated van line with a 4.98/5 Better Business Bureau rating, provides accountability and quality standards that independent movers cannot match. While the Montreal-Ottawa route is short enough that network transfers are unnecessary, our GCVL certification ensures you receive service backed by national standards, proper cargo protection, and the reliability that comes with established protocols.
National Capital Region Expertise
Our experience serving the Ottawa market means we understand the unique requirements of moves to Canada's capital. We're familiar with delivery requirements for downtown Ottawa high-rises, the logistics of moves to Gatineau and Hull on the Quebec side of the river, and the specific considerations for suburban communities from Kanata to Orleans. This local knowledge ensures efficient delivery regardless of where in the National Capital Region you're relocating.
Government and Corporate Relocation Experience
Pro Action Transport has extensive experience with federal government transfers and corporate relocations between Montreal and Ottawa. We understand the documentation requirements, timing constraints, and service expectations common in professional moves. Our systematic approach to inventory management, careful handling, and reliable timing meets the standards that government departments and corporations expect from their moving service providers.
Ready to Plan Your Montreal to Ottawa Move?
Get a detailed quote for your Montreal to Ottawa move. Same-day service available. Free estimates with no obligation.
Areas Served in the National Capital Region
Pro Action Transport delivers throughout the National Capital Region, covering both the Ontario and Quebec sides of this unique cross-border metropolitan area. Our comprehensive coverage ensures professional service regardless of your specific destination within the greater Ottawa-Gatineau region.
City of Ottawa
Our Ottawa coverage includes all neighborhoods and districts throughout Canada's capital city. Downtown Ottawa and Centretown receive regular service, with our crews experienced in navigating the parking and access requirements of urban high-rise buildings. We serve established neighborhoods including the Glebe, Old Ottawa South, Westboro, Hintonburg, and Wellington West. Suburban communities throughout the city are equally accessible, from Kanata and Stittsville in the west to Orleans and Cumberland in the east, and Barrhaven and Riverside South in the south.
We understand the specific delivery considerations for different Ottawa neighborhoods. Downtown condominiums often require elevator booking and specific delivery windows. Suburban homes in newer developments like Findlay Creek or Arcadia may have access considerations we're familiar with navigating. Our crews know Ottawa's geography and logistics, ensuring efficient delivery to any address in the city.
Gatineau and Quebec Side
The National Capital Region extends across the Ottawa River into Quebec, and Pro Action Transport serves this area with the same expertise we bring to the Ontario side. Gatineau proper, including the Plateau, Hull, and Aylmer sectors, receives full service coverage. We also reach Chelsea, Cantley, and other communities in the Outaouais region.
For customers moving from Montreal to Gatineau, the move remains entirely within Quebec, though the destination is functionally part of the Ottawa metropolitan area. This can have implications for provincial regulations and services that we can discuss during your consultation. Many federal employees work in Ottawa but choose to live in Gatineau for various reasons, and we frequently serve this cross-river commuter population.
Surrounding Communities
Beyond the immediate Ottawa-Gatineau urban area, we serve surrounding communities throughout the National Capital Region. This includes Rockland, Clarence-Rockland, and communities along the Ottawa River to the east. To the south, we reach Kemptville, North Grenville, and communities along the Highway 416 corridor. Western coverage extends to Arnprior, Renfrew, and the Ottawa Valley. These outlying areas may require additional coordination but are fully within our service capability.
Our Montreal to Ottawa Moving Process
The Montreal to Ottawa moving process follows a streamlined approach that takes advantage of the short distance between cities. Our efficient procedures enable same-day service while maintaining the care and attention your belongings deserve.
Step 1: Consultation and Quote
Your Ottawa move begins with a consultation to assess your specific requirements. Given the short distance and high frequency of our Montreal-Ottawa service, we can often provide accurate quotes quickly and accommodate moves with shorter lead times than our longer routes require. We recommend booking two to four weeks in advance for optimal scheduling, though we can often accommodate moves with shorter notice depending on availability. During this consultation, we discuss your inventory, timeline preferences, and whether same-day express or standard service better suits your needs.
Step 2: Confirmation and Preparation
Once you approve our quote, we confirm your moving date and service details. For same-day service, we schedule your pickup time, typically morning, to ensure adequate time for loading, transport, and delivery before evening. We provide preparation guidelines and coordinate any packing services if selected. Our team confirms all details a few days before your move to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.
Step 3: Moving Day in Montreal
On moving day, our crew arrives at your Montreal location at the scheduled time with appropriate equipment and materials. We conduct systematic loading, protecting furniture with blankets and wrap, documenting inventory, and securing items for transport. For average-sized homes, loading typically takes two to four hours depending on volume and access conditions. Once loading is complete, we depart for Ottawa.
Step 4: Transport and Delivery
The approximately two-hour drive to Ottawa follows Highway 417, the most direct route between the cities. For same-day service, we proceed directly to your Ottawa destination. Upon arrival, our crew unloads systematically, places furniture according to your instructions, reassembles items as needed, and confirms the inventory with you. For same-day moves, you can expect to be fully moved in and settled by evening, ready to begin your new chapter in Ottawa.
Moving from Montreal to Ottawa: What Draws People to the Capital
Ottawa attracts Montreal residents for various professional and personal reasons. Understanding these common motivations helps us better serve customers making this significant transition between Quebec and Ontario.
Federal Government Employment
As Canada's capital, Ottawa hosts the federal government and its many departments, agencies, and Crown corporations. Federal employment opportunities draw professionals from across the country, with Montreal being a particularly common origin given the bilingual requirements of many government positions. Government transfers between Montreal-based federal offices and Ottawa headquarters create consistent demand for moving services on this corridor.
Technology Sector Growth
Ottawa has developed a significant technology sector, sometimes called Silicon Valley North, with companies in software, telecommunications, and defense technology. Shopify's headquarters, along with numerous other tech firms, attract professionals who may have started careers in Montreal's tech scene. The relatively lower cost of living compared to Toronto, combined with tech sector salaries, makes Ottawa attractive for technology professionals.
Bilingual Career Advantages
Ottawa's bilingual character creates unique career opportunities for French-English bilingual professionals from Quebec. Many federal positions require bilingualism, giving Montrealers a natural advantage in the Ottawa job market. The ability to work in French while accessing the broader English Canadian economy attracts professionals seeking to leverage their language skills.
Quality of Life Considerations
Ottawa offers a different lifestyle than Montreal, with factors that appeal to various demographics. Housing costs, while rising, remain generally lower than Montreal for comparable properties. The city's extensive green spaces, including the Gatineau Park network, appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Families often appreciate Ottawa's reputation for excellent schools and family-friendly communities. The smaller city feel compared to Montreal suits those seeking a less hectic pace while maintaining access to cultural amenities and career opportunities.
Practical Considerations for Your Move
Moving from Quebec to Ontario involves several administrative transitions. You'll need to update your health insurance from RAMQ to OHIP, transfer vehicle registration and obtain Ontario plates, and update your driver's license to Ontario. The two-hour distance from Montreal means maintaining connections with family and friends remains convenient, with easy weekend visits possible. We're happy to provide guidance on these practical aspects of your interprovincial transition during our consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Montreal to Ottawa Moving
How much does it cost to move from Montreal to Ottawa?
Montreal to Ottawa moving costs typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 for residential moves, depending on home size, service level, and timing. Studio apartments start around $1,500 to $2,200, two-bedroom homes range from $2,000 to $3,200, and larger homes cost $3,000 to $5,500 or more. These estimates include loading, transport, and delivery. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your specific inventory and requirements.
Can you do same-day moving from Montreal to Ottawa?
Yes, same-day moving is our signature service on the Montreal-Ottawa corridor. With morning pickup in Montreal, typically between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, we deliver to Ottawa by evening, usually between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This service allows you to complete your entire move in one day. Same-day express service costs approximately 15 to 25 percent more than standard service.
How long does it take to move from Montreal to Ottawa?
The drive between Montreal and Ottawa takes approximately two hours. With our same-day express service, you can complete your entire move within one day. Standard service delivers within one to three days from pickup. The short distance makes this one of our fastest long distance routes, with most moves completing within 24 to 48 hours even without express service.
What is the distance from Montreal to Ottawa?
The distance from Montreal to Ottawa is approximately 200 kilometers via Highway 417, the most direct route. This relatively short distance enables same-day service and makes the Montreal-Ottawa corridor our most flexible long distance route. The drive takes approximately two to two and a half hours under normal traffic conditions.
Do you serve Gatineau as well as Ottawa?
Yes, we serve the entire National Capital Region including Gatineau and all communities on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River. This includes Gatineau proper, Hull, Aylmer, Chelsea, and surrounding areas. For moves from Montreal to Gatineau, the entire journey remains within Quebec, though the destination is part of the Ottawa metropolitan area.
Do you provide bilingual service?
Absolutely. Our team provides full service in both French and English, which is particularly valuable on the Montreal-Ottawa corridor where both languages are commonly used. You can communicate in your preferred language from initial consultation through final delivery, ensuring clear understanding of your requirements and preferences throughout the moving process.
What areas of Ottawa do you deliver to?
We deliver throughout the Ottawa metropolitan area, including downtown Ottawa, the Glebe, Westboro, Kanata, Orleans, Barrhaven, Nepean, and all other neighborhoods. We also serve Gatineau and the Quebec side of the National Capital Region. Surrounding communities like Rockland, Kemptville, and Arnprior are also within our service area.
How far in advance should I book my Montreal to Ottawa move?
We recommend booking two to four weeks in advance for optimal scheduling, though the short distance and high frequency of our Ottawa service often allows us to accommodate shorter notice requests. During peak season from May through September, and especially around July 1st, earlier booking ensures availability on your preferred date. For same-day service, advance booking is particularly important to secure the morning pickup slot required for same-day delivery.
Request Your Free Montreal to Ottawa Moving Quote
Ready to plan your move from Montreal to Ottawa? Contact Pro Action Transport for a detailed estimate tailored to your specific requirements. Whether you need same-day express service or flexible standard scheduling, our team provides comprehensive quotes with transparent pricing and no hidden fees.
As a certified Great Canadian Van Lines agent with extensive experience on the Montreal-Ottawa corridor, we deliver the reliability, bilingual service, and professional care your interprovincial move deserves. Our same-day service capability means you can complete your entire relocation in a single day, minimizing disruption and getting you settled in Ottawa quickly.
Call us directly at 514-266-1239 to speak with a bilingual moving consultant, or complete our online quote request form for a response within 24 business hours. We look forward to helping you make a smooth transition from Montreal to Canada's capital.
Ready to Move from Montreal to Ottawa?
Get a detailed quote for your Montreal to Ottawa move. Same-day service available. Free estimates with no obligation.