A-1 Auto Transport offers a seamless solution for cross-border car shipping from the US to Canada. International car shipping involves obtaining the necessary permits, passing several tolls, and ensuring all documentation is in order. The journey can be exhausting if you drive your vehicle across the border. Our service takes the hassle out of this process, ensuring a smooth and efficient transport experience.
Ship Car To Canada From the US
Let A-1 Auto Transport manage your cross-border car moving needs. Whether you're relocating to Canada on a work visa, returning a Canadian-registered vehicle, or shipping a car for any other reason, we've got you covered. Provide us with your route and vehicle model details—a car, jeep, motorcycle, SUV, RV, or truck—and we'll offer a competitive quote tailored to your needs.
Attention to Detail
We understand that hauling a vehicle internationally requires meticulous planning and attention to detail. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your car arrives safely and on time.
Have peace of mind
Trust A-1 Auto Transport to handle your vehicle carefully, giving you peace of mind throughout Delivery. With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can rest assured that your car is in good hands.
How Much Does It Cost To Haul A Vehicle To Maple Leaf Country From The US?
The cost of shipping a car to Canada from the US varies and depends on several factors, such as distance, mode of transport, and the type of vehicle. Because of these variables, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
Enclosed transport
Costs can vary significantly based on whether you're shipping from a nearby state or across the country, using open or enclosed transport, or any additional services required.
Cost Calculator
Use our car shipping cost calculator to get an accurate and personalized estimate. This tool considers all the relevant details of your shipment, providing you with a precise quote tailored to your specific needs.
Reliable Service
A-1 Auto ensures you get the best value for your money, offering competitive rates and reliable service for shipping parcels to Canada, including priority mail international shipments.
Approximations of Cost
The hauling rate for transporting a car to Canada from the US varies based on pick-up and drop-off points and the mode of transport.
Ground and ocean shipping options have cost implications and delivery times, offering different delivery options to suit your needs and budget.
Costs and Routes
Below is a table providing approximate costs and durations for various routes:
To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
San Jose, CA to (California port) to Prince Rupert | $200 | $900 | 5+12 |
New York, NY to (New York port) to Halifax | $275 | $700 | 5+9 |
Los Angeles, CA to (California port) to Prince Rupert | $350 | $900 | 5+12 |
Boston, MA to (New York port) to Halifax | $400 | $700 | 5+9 |
Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to Prince Rupert | $450 | $900 | 5+12 |
Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to Prince Rupert | $550 | $900 | 6+12 |
Charlotte, NC to (New York port) to Halifax | $575 | $700 | 6+9 |
Denver, CO to (California port) to Prince Rupert | $775 | $900 | 7+12 |
Memphis, TN to (New York port) to Halifax | $800 | $700 | 6+9 |
Houston, TX to (New York port) to Halifax | $1,075 | $700 | 7+9 |
*Prices and times are estimated and are not guaranteed quotes.
What Factors Influence The Cost Of Car Moving To The Great White North?
Several factors that influence international vehicle moving prices, including:
- Where in the U.S. are you hauling from, and where in Canada are you shipping to?
- The time of the season you are looking to have your vehicle shipped.
- Your chosen method of car transportation. Whether you will be using an open truck or an enclosed truck.
- Uncontrollable factors such as gas prices, regulatory fees, and import duties.
Distance and Route
The distance and route of transportation are crucial in determining international vehicle freight prices. The farther the destination, the higher the cost.
Factors Affecting
Specific routes or areas and geopolitical factors are also factors impacting shipping expenses as vehicles traverse various regions worldwide.
Vehicle Model and Features
The type of vehicle being shipped and its features contribute to pricing differentials. Luxury products and models, electric cars like Tesla, and those with advanced performance features and menus may incur higher shipping costs due to their unique handling requirements and the potential need for specialized hauling methods.
Shipping Method and Fleet
The chosen freight method and the transportation company's fleet are crucial factors, and this account greatly influences pricing. Different solutions, such as enclosed containers or open carriers, come with varying price points.
Adaptability
A well-maintained and diverse fleet ensures adaptability to different vehicle types and transport needs, affecting everything, including overall pricing.
Data and Technology
In the modern world, data and technology play a pivotal role in international vehicle shipping. Companies utilizing advanced navigation systems, efficient route planning, and real-time tracking provide accurate estimates.
Data-Driven Approach
This data-driven approach enhances transparency and helps importers plan and budget effectively.
Packing and Storage
Packaging and storage become essential for comprehensive moves involving vehicles and household or office items. The amount of stuff, packing supplies, and the need for storage solutions impact the overall shipping quote.
Professional Movers
Professional movers offering these services alleviate stress but may adjust prices based on the extent of assistance required.
Supply and Demand in the Trucking Industry
The trucking industry's supply and demand dynamics influence international vehicle freight prices. High demand for shipping services in certain areas or during specific times may increase costs.
Optimal Benefits
The solution is for shippers to consider peak seasons and adjust their plans accordingly to optimize benefits and minimize expenses.
Geographical Areas and Import Regulations
Different geographical areas have distinct challenges and regulations affecting shipping prices. Importers must know the specific requirements, taxes, and fees for shipping vehicles to particular regions.
Residential Moves
The nature of the move, whether it involves a family relocating from a house or an individual from an apartment, impacts the shipping cost. The household size, the amount of furniture, and the number of boxes all influence the loads and pricing.
Factors to Consider
A Mover must assess these factors and allocate the appropriate crew and resources for a seamless residential transition across state lines.
The typical international shipping estimate for our customers ranges between $700 and $2,500, with the higher prices for shipments that are furthest away.
Do Reasons for Shipping a Vehicle to Canada Affect Cost?
Yes, the reason for shipping a vehicle to Canada can significantly affect the cost. Different scenarios present unique challenges and expenses. For example, returning to Canada with a Canadian-registered vehicle typically involves fewer complications and lower costs than other reasons.
Import Duties and Taxes
Purchasing a vehicle in the U.S. and importing it to Canada requires additional steps, such as paying import duties and taxes, which can increase the overall cost. Temporary imports for students or professionals on short-term visits also impact shipping expenses.
Permits
These situations may necessitate specific permits and adherence to different regulatory requirements, potentially adding to the cost.
Similarly, relocating to Canada for work involves thorough documentation and compliance with both countries' regulations, leading to substantial expenses.
Competitive Quote
At A-1AT, we carefully evaluate all these factors to provide a transparent and competitive quote, ensuring you get the best value for your needs.
Why Choose A-1 Auto Transport for Auto Hauling
Choosing A-1AT for your auto shipment needs to Canada ensures reliability, comprehensive insurance coverage, and competitive pricing. With decades of experience, our team handles all the logistics and paperwork, providing a seamless shipping process.
Reasons
Here are several reasons for making A-1 Auto a preferred choice for many:
Trusted Since 1998
A-1 Auto Transport has been a trusted leader in international and cross-border car shipping for over two decades. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau and our consistent five-star customer ratings on Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot.
Compliance with Law
As a company registered under the US Department of Transportation, we proudly display our Motor Carrier Number. We are also registered with the Federal Maritime Commission, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards. You can verify our credentials and check our authenticity on the FMCSA website, where our reputation for reliable and professional service speaks for itself.
Binding Quotes
We offer binding quotes covering all the essential costs of shipping your vehicle. This means that fuel, tolls, insurance, additional permits, and taxes are all included in our price.
No hidden fees
With no hidden fees or surprise charges, our binding quotes ensure complete transparency and peace of mind. You can trust that the price you see is the price you'll pay, making it easier to budget for your vehicle's transport without any unexpected expenses.
Commitment to honesty
Our commitment to honesty and clarity is just one reason customers choose us for their car shipping needs.
A1 Auto Transport Fully Insured
When you hire us, you can rest easy knowing that your vehicle is fully insured throughout the shipping process. Our comprehensive coverage includes carrier, broker, customer, liability, and cargo insurance.
Insurance Coverage
Every transporter we work with meets or exceeds the federally mandated minimum of $750,000 in insurance coverage, with many carrying up to $1 million on their trucks. This extensive protection ensures that your vehicle is safeguarded against unforeseen events, providing peace of mind from pickup to delivery.
Need Help Deciding Which Overseas Shipping Method Is Best For You?
Choosing the proper Canada auto transport method for your vehicle can take time and effort. Depending on the size and weight, whether or not your cargo is operable determines what shipping method works best for you.
Critical Tips for Car Hauling
Here’s what we recommend for your Canada car transport:
- Shipping via Container
Hauling via container may be the best option for smaller cargo, including anything that can be disassembled or requires extra protection from the weather. Your items will be safely transported in a shipping container stacked amongst hundreds of others.
- Flat Rack Container
Items too large for a shipping container may need a full rack container instead. This type of container is open in all sizes, including the top. It allows for unique shapes and awkward-sized items while also providing flexibility when freight cargo doesn’t fit via other means.
- Roro Method
The least expensive and most straightforward method of shipping your cars is the RoRo method. Wheeled vehicles, railroad cars, semi-trailer trucks, and trailers are all eligible for this method, which involves loading them onto a trailer.
- Lolo Method
Another available method is lift on, lift off (LoLo). Ships and docks are equipped with cranes to load and unload cargo. This method is typically used for oversized items that can’t move onto the vessel independently, like crated cargo or inoperable automobiles.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the shipping methods offered, don’t hesitate to contact A-1 Auto Transport directly. Our team is more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
What Are The Popular Shipping Destinations In Canada?
Below are the popular Moving destinations in Canada:
City | Postal Codes |
Brampton | L6P, L6R, L6S, L6T, L6V, L6W, L6X, L6Y, L6Z, L7A |
Calgary | T1Y, T2A, T2B, T2C, T2E, T2G, T2H, T2J, T2K, T2L, T2M, T2N, T2P, T2R, T2S, T2T, T2V, T2W, T2X, T2Y, T2Z, T3A, T3B, T3C, T3E, T3G, T3H, T3J, T3K, T3L, T3M, T3N, T3P, T3R, T3Z |
Edmonton | T5A, T5B, T5C, T5E, T5G, T5H, T5J, T5K, T5L, T5M, T5N, T5P, T5R, T5S, T5T, T5V, T5W, T5X, T5Y, T5Z, T6A, T6B, T6C, T6E, T6G, T6H, T6J, T6K, T6L, T6M, T6N, T6P, T6R, T6S, T6T, T6V, T6W, T6X, T6Y |
Hamilton | L8E, L8G, L8H, L8J, L8K, L8L, L8M, L8N, L8P, L8R, L8S, L8T, L8V, L8W, L9A, L9B, L9C, L9G, L9H, L9K |
Kingston | K7K, K7L, K7M, K7N, K7P |
Mississauga | L4T, L4V, L4W, L4X, L4Y, L4Z, L5A, L5B, L5C, L5E, L5G, L5H, L5J, L5K, L5L, L5M, L5N, L5P, L5R, L5S, L5T, L5V, L5W |
Moncton | E1A, E1B, E1C, E1E, E1G, E1H, E1J |
Montreal | H1A, H1B, H1C, H1E, H1G, H1H, H1J, H1K, H1L, H1M, H1N, H1P, H1R, H1S, H1T, H1V, H1W, H1X, H1Y, H1Z, H2A, H2B, H2C, H2E, H2G, H2H, H2J, H2K, H2L, H2M, H2N, H2P, H2R, H2S, H2T, H2V, H2W, H2X, H2Y, H2Z, H3A, H3B, H3C, H3E, H3G, H3H, H3J, H3K, H3L, H3M, H3N, H3P, H3R, H3S, H3T, H3V, H3W, H3X, H3Y, H3Z, H4A, H4B, H4C, H4E, H4G, H4H, H4J, H4K, H4L, H4M, H4N, H4P, H4R, H4S, H4T, H4V, H4W, H4X, H4Y, H4Z |
Ottawa | K1A, K1B, K1C, K1E, K1G, K1H, K1J, K1K, K1L, K1M, K1N, K1P, K1R, K1S, K1T, K1V, K1W, K1X, K1Y, K1Z, K2A, K2B, K2C, K2E, K2G, K2H, K2J, K2K, K2L, K2M, K2P, K2R, K2S, K2T, K2V, K2W, K4A, K4B, K4C, K4M, K4P |
Quebec | G1A, G1B, G1C, G1E, G1G, G1H, G1J, G1K, G1L, G1M, G1N, G1P, G1R, G1S, G1T, G1V, G1W, G1X, G1Y |
St. John's | A1A, A1B, A1C, A1E, A1G, A1H, A1K, A1L, A1M, A1N, A1P, A1S, A1V, A1W, A1X, A1Y |
Toronto | M1B, M1C, M1E, M1G, M1H, M1J, M1K, M1L, M1M, M1N, M1P, M1R, M1S, M1T, M1V, M1W, M1X, M2H, M2J, M2K, M2L, M2M, M2N, M2P, M2R, M3A, M3B, M3C, M3H, M3J, M3K, M3L, M3M, M3N, M4A, M4B, M4C, M4E, M4G, M4H, M4J, M4K, M4L, M4M, M4N, M4P, M4R, M4S, M4T, M4V, M4W, M4X, M4Y, M5A, M5B, M5C, M5E, M5G, M5H, M5J, M5K, M5L, M5M, M5N, M5P, M5R, M5S, M5T, M5V, M5W, M5X, M6A, M6B, M6C, M6E, M6G, M6H, M6J, M6K, M6L, M6M, M6N, M6P, M6R, M6S, M8V, M8W, M8X, M8Y, M8Z, M9A, M9B, M9C, M9L, M9M, M9N, M9P, M9R, M9V, M9W |
Vancouver | V5K, V5L, V5M, V5N, V5P, V5R, V5S, V5T, V5V, V5W, V5X, V5Y, V5Z, V6A, V6B, V6C, V6E, V6G, V6H, V6J, V6K, V6L, V6M, V6N, V6P, V6R, V6S, V6T, V6Z, V7X, V7Y |
Winnipeg | R2C, R2E, R2G, R2H, R2J, R2K, R2L, R2M, R2N, R2P, R2R, R2V, R2W, R2X, R2Y, R3A, R3B, R3C, R3E, R3G, R3H, R3J, R3K, R3L, R3M, R3N, R3P, R3R, R3S, R3T, R3V, R3W, R3X, R3Y |
Abbotsford | V2S, V2T, V2Y, V3G, V4X |
Barrie | L4M, L4N |
Guelph | N1C, N1E, N1G, N1H, N1K, N1L |
Halifax | B3A, B3B, B3H, B3J, B3K, B3L, B3M, B3N, B3P, B3R, B3S, B3T, B3Z, B4A, B4B, B4C, B4E, B4G |
Kelowna | V1P, V1V, V1W, V1X, V1Y, V4T |
Kitchener | N2A, N2B, N2C, N2E, N2G, N2H, N2K, N2L, N2M, N2N, N2P, N2R |
Oshawa | L1G, L1H, L1J, L1K, L1L |
Regina | S4N, S4P, S4R, S4S, S4T, S4V, S4W, S4X, S4Y, S4Z |
Saguenay | G7B, G7G, G7H, G7J, G7K, G7N, G7P, G7S, G7T, G7X, G7Y, G7Z |
Saskatoon | S7H, S7J, S7K, S7L, S7M, S7N, S7P, S7R, S7S, S7T, S7V, S7W |
Sherbrooke | J1C, J1E, J1G, J1H, J1J, J1K, J1L, J1M, J1N |
St. Catharine's | L2M, L2N, L2P, L2R, L2S, L2T, L2W |
London | N5V, N5W, N5X, N5Y, N5Z, N6A, N6B, N6C, N6E, N6G, N6H, N6J, N6K, N6L, N6M, N6N, N6P |
Victoria | V8N, V8P, V8R, V8S, V8T, V8V, V8W, V8X, V8Y, V8Z, V9A, V9B |
Windsor | N8P, N8R, N8S, N8T, N8V, N8W, N8X, N8Y, N9A, N9B, N9C, N9E, N9G |
Trois-Rivieres | G8T, G8V, G8W, G8Y, G8Z, G9A, G9B, G9C |
Airdrie | T4A, T4B |
Belleville | K8N, K8P |
Beloeil | J3G |
Bandon | C0K |
Brantford | N3P, N3R, N3S, N3T, N3V |
Charlottetown | C1A, C1C, C1E |
Chateauguay | J6J, J6K |
Chicoutimi Jonquiere | G7G, G7H, G7J, G7K, G7N, G7P, G7S, G7X |
Chilliwack | V2P, V2R, V4Z |
Cornwall | K6H, K6J |
Courtenay | V9J, V9N |
Drummondville | J2A, J2B, J2C, J2E |
Fort Mcmurray | T9H, T9J, T9K |
Fredericton | E3A, E3B, E3C, E3E, E3G |
Granby | J2G, J2H, J2J |
Grande Prairie | T8V, T8W, T8X |
Joliette | J6E |
Kamloops | V1S, V2B, V2C, V2E, V2H |
Kanata | K2K, K2L, K2M, K2T, K2V |
Lethbridge | T1H, T1J, T1K |
Medicine Hat | T1A, T1B, T1C |
Nanaimo | V9R, V9S, V9T, V9V |
North Bay | P1A, P1B, P1C |
Peterborough | K9H, K9J, K9K, K9L |
Prince George | V2K, V2L, V2M, V2N |
Red Deer | T4N, T4P, T4R |
Saint John | E2J, E2K, E2L, E2M, E2P |
Saint Hyacinthe | J2R, J2S, J2T |
Saint Jean Sur Richelieu | J3B, J3L, J4B, J4N, J4R, J4S |
Saint Jerome | J5L, J7Y, J7Z |
Sarnia | N7S, N7T, N7V, N7W, N7X |
Sault Ste Marie | P6A, P6B, P6C |
Sudbury | P0M, P3A, P3B, P3C, P3E, P3G, P3L, P3N, P3P, P3Y |
Thunder Bay | P7A, P7B, P7C, P7E, P7G, P7J, P7K |
Vernon | V1B, V1H, V1T |
Victoriaville | G6P, G6R, G6S, G6T |
Welland Pelham | L0S, L3B, L3C |
White Rock | V4A, V4B |
CBSA Customs Requirements For Importing Vehicles To Canada
Transport Canada, a branch of the federal government, handles vehicle imports, while the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) handles all Canadian vehicle-sending border requests. Canadian Import regulations are straightforward and favorable for imports from the United States.
Resources
If you want a streamlined process when shipping a car, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the following resources and information.
Car Freight Process
- Verification
All cars from any car manufacturer need to be verified using the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV). Check that your vehicle is on RIV to avoid any complications. RIV provides a useful Canadian Importer Checklist tool that you can use to determine your vehicle's car shipping eligibility and to search for vehicle manufacturer information.
- Eligibility
Verify that your car is admissible to Canada. Eligibility for admission is based on a set of criteria found on Transport Canada's website here. This document details requirements such as maximum vehicle age, permitted vehicle types, weight restrictions, and other specifications that will simplify the import process.
- Check for recalls.
Imported vehicles must not be part of an active recall. RIV's import checklist will provide your manufacturer's contact information if you search for your vehicle using it.
- Have your documentation in order.
To prepare to import your vehicle from the USA to Canada, you will need several documents. You must submit Electronic Export Information (EEI) using the Automated Export System (AES). CBSA will require an Import Form - Form 1 (E-form). Your title and ownership, as well as valid identification, will be required.
- Pay your fees.
You should expect to pay several vehicle transporting fees throughout the import process. These fees include your RIV registration fee (motor vehicle engines subject to $310 + tax), duty, excise tax, 5% GST, potential provincial taxes based on your destination location, and licensing fees.
- Obtain an RIV Inspection.
Vehicles being imported to Canada from the USA must follow established regulations. Your RIV inspection must be completed within 45 days of the date of importation. You must supply your Federal Inspection and Import Form - Form 1 at inspection time. Once passed, you will receive a Canadian Statement of Compliance (SOC).
- Federal air pollution regulations are passed.
- Automobiles not on a vehicle recall list (safety recall list).
- Passes Mechanical safety requirements.
- Passes all NHTSA rules (see https://www.nhtsa.gov/laws-regulations).
- Consult with the provincial licensing department.
- Each province has its licensing branch. These branches are as follows: Alberta Government Services (Alberta), ICBC Licensing Programs (British Columbia), Manitoba Highways & Government Services (Manitoba), Department of Transportation (New Brunswick), Motor Registration Division (Newfoundland), Ministry of Transportation (Northwest Territories), Nova Scotia Registry (Nova Scotia), Department of Economic Development & Transportation (Nunavut), Ministry of Transportation (Ontario), Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (Quebec), Saskatchewan Government Insurance (Saskatchewan), and Community & Transportation Services (Yukon).
- Meet environmental requirements.
Environment Canada handles all environmental requirements in Canada. RIV offers a detailed breakdown of your vehicle's ecological requirements here.
Required Documents For International Car Transport To Canada
For a smooth international car transport experience to Canada, having all necessary documents in order before crossing the border is essential. Here is a list of the required documents:
- Original bill of lading (BOL)
- Bill of sale/purchase invoice
- Competed EPA emissions from (3520-1)
- DOT form HS-7
- Provide personal identification
How Can You Save Money On Your Vehicle Shipment To Canada From The US?
Some of our recommended tips to let you save money on your vehicle shipment to Canada from the US are as follows:
- Ship During the Off Season: Moving your car during off-peak times can significantly reduce costs. When demand for car shipments is lower, you'll find better prices and more availability.
- Deliver to the Nearest Port Yourself: You can save on ground shipping costs by driving your vehicle to the nearest port. This can cut down on transportation fees and simplify logistics.
- Plan for Document Processing: When freighting your car to Canada, allow at least ten days for document processing. Early preparation can prevent delays and additional costs.
- Use a Dedicated Container: Shipping your car in a dedicated 20ft container is the safest and most reliable method for international transport. It also allows you to ship personal belongings along with your vehicle, saving you time and money by consolidating your shipments.
- Consider the Roll-on, Roll-off (RoRo) Method: The RoRo method, where your car is driven onto the ship, is less expensive than container hauling. It also tends to be faster, making it a cost-effective option for many.
How Does A-1 Auto Transport's Vehicle Shipping Service Work?
A-1 Auto makes shipping your vehicle from the US to Canada straightforward and stress-free. Here's how our comprehensive service works:
- Request a Free Quote: Contact A-1 Auto Transport for a free quote. Provide details about your vehicle, including the make, model, and pick-up and delivery locations. We will offer a competitive price tailored to your needs.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Before pick-up, remove personal items, clean the vehicle, and check for any existing damage. Have all required documentation, including the title, bill of sale, and necessary permits.
- Vehicle Pick-Up: Our team schedules a convenient time to pick up your vehicle from your US location. Our professional drivers ensure your vehicle is securely loaded onto the transport carrier.
- Customs Clearance and Documentation: We handle all customs clearance and documentation, working closely with officials to ensure a smooth border crossing for your vehicle. Our expertise in navigating customs procedures helps minimize transit times, getting your car to its destination as quickly as possible.
- Vehicle Delivery: We Ship your vehicle to its Canadian destination, providing timely delivery and updates. Upon arrival, we carefully unload and conduct a final inspection to confirm its condition.
Call us at (1-888-230-9116) or fill out our form for a free quote on shipping your car to Canada from the US.
Relevant Statistics
- More than 100,000 cars are imported into Canada each year.
- Approximately 80% of shipped cars to Canada come from the United States.
- The average cost to ship a car to Canada is $1,200.
- Over 90% of vehicle imports to Canada comply with the country's emissions standards.
- On average, a car takes 7-10 days to be delivered from the United States to Canada.
General Facts About Auto Moving To Canadian Provinces
- Shipping a car to Canada involves transporting a vehicle from one country to another, typically through maritime or land transportation.
- Before hauling a car to Canada, it is essential to research and comply with the customs regulations and requirements of exporting and importing countries.
- Specific documentation is usually required, including proof of ownership, vehicle title, and information about the vehicle's make, model, and VIN.
- Moving costs can vary depending on factors such as distance, transportation method, and the vehicle's size and weight.
- It is recommended that you work with a professional shipping company experienced in international vehicle transport to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top ports in Canada for shipping by sea freight?
- The Port of Vancouver is the largest major seaport in Canada. The port trades over $200 billion in goods yearly with 170 different economies around the globe.
- The Port of Montreal is an AI-driven port and considered one of the world’s most cutting-edge ports.
- The Port of Prince Rupert is the third-largest port in Canada. While it doesn’t have the popularity, Vancouver and Montreal have, it does have the numbers to support its ranking.
- The Port of Halifax is another major port in Canada, which prides itself on being data-driven. Halifax is connected to more countries than Montreal’s port.
- The Port of St. John is the largest Canadian port in the Atlantic. The port has connections with the rest of Canada, both by road and rail. It is easily accessible to the Trans-Canada Highway.
What is the Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS)?
The Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS) allows customs brokers to submit release information provided by the importer and carrier to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for review and processing before arriving in Canada. PARS speeds up the release or referral for examination for the carrier when arriving at the border with the freight.
A PARS sticker/label will be affixed to the documents for the freight before the shipper picks it up. These are then forwarded to the customs broker so that they can set up the shipment with the CBSA in advance. When faxing the broker, the port in which the freight will cross must be listed, along with the estimated date and time of arrival. Contact information should also be present in case the broker needs to reach out.
How long does it take to ship to Canada?
Shipping to Canada can take anywhere from three days to several weeks – depending on the distance that has to be covered. A shipment from Wisconsin to Toronto would take less time than a shipment from Florida to Vancouver. As your shipping company, we will work with you to keep you in the loop about your shipment and how long it will take.
Why is my shipment stuck at the border?
When you find out that your shipment has been delayed at the border, it can be frustrating. Here are the common reasons you may end up stuck at the border:
- The documents make no mention of who the customs broker is to assist with the clearance.
- The documents are hard to decipher and determine who the Importer of Record (IOR) is; the IOR can be the consignee, the shipper, or a third party.
- The shipper or consignee has set nothing up with a Canadian customs broker to gain customs clearance.
- There is a lack of information on the documents or commercial invoices. These can include:
- Not enough information to assign Tariff Classification
- Total value or individual values are missing
- Country, where manufactured, is missing
- The total number of pieces is missing
- Weight is missing
- Commercial invoice document only shows product numbers
- Missing the Bill of Lading
- Sometimes the imported item can cause delays – there may be additional approval from another governing agency or additional permit required
What is the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement)?
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was enacted July 1, 2020, and is the renegotiated North American Free Trade Agreement. Under the leadership of Former President Donald J. Trump, the USMCA is a mutually beneficial win for North American workers, farmers, ranchers, and businesses. The agreement creates more balanced and reciprocal trade, supporting higher-paying jobs for Americans and the growth of the North American economy.
What is a customs broker?
A customs broker is a private individual, partnership, association, or corporation licensed, regulated, and empowered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These individuals assist importers and exporters, ensuring they meet the Federal requirements that govern imports and exports.
Customs brokers also submit necessary information and the appropriate payments to the CBP on behalf of the clients they represent and charge a fee for the services rendered.
Brokers must have expertise in:
- Entry procedures
- Admissibility requirements
- Classification
- Valuation
- Rates of duty and applicable taxes and fees for imported merchandise
To become a customs broker, applicants must be a U.S. citizen at least 21 years old, cannot be a current Federal Government employee, and must possess good moral character. Those who are eligible candidates must:
- Pass the Customs Broker License Examination
- Submit a broker license application with the appropriate fees
- Have the application approved by CBP
What is a freight forwarder?
Freight forwarders are experts who are connected within the supply chain, concentrating on the logistics and the physical transportation of the cargo. They communicate with all applicable entities within the exporting process that handles or is aware of the shipment via truck, boat, plane, or any combination thereof. Most freight forwarders are in charge of assembling and completing the documentation or compliance filings needed.
What documents may be required to ship a car (interstate and international)?
There are several different types of documents that may be required when shipping a car. Even though you may not need all of these documents when shipping your car, it is good to know exactly what documents may be asked of you.
- Original registration and title, but if the car is leased or financed and the original title is not available, a notarized letter from the bank that acknowledges the shipment will suffice.
- Proof of insurance must be provided, but it will not be accepted if the insurance policy is expired.
- Photo identification is required and can be presented as an unexpired driver’s license or passport from the country of your origin.
- If you are acting on behalf of someone and the vehicle is not in your name, you will be required to produce a notarized letter from the owner with the VIN of the vehicle and your authorization to transport it.
- International shipments will require the Bill of Sale or a notarized copy of it.
- Documents that prove the state sales tax was paid when the vehicle was purchased.
- The import duty or tax will have to be paid before the vehicle can be transported internationally.
Documents required by your vehicle carrier or by the importing/exporting country are only to combat stolen vehicles from being moved.
What is a Bill of Lading?
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is a part of your “contract” with the shipping company. It is a staple part of vehicle transport and cargo shipping. The BOL is a legal document that specifies what is being shipped from one location to another and who is shipping it.
The BOL will include an inspection before the vehicle is picked up. The shipping company representative and the vehicle owner or representative will do an inspection, noting all of the pre-existing damages that may be present. Both parties will sign off on it before the vehicle is loaded. Once the vehicle arrives at its destination, the driver (or representative) and the designated party will look the vehicle over again, comparing it against the original specifications on the BOL.
If anything is conflicting, it should be notated and acknowledged, and brought up with the shipping company for insurance purposes. The BOL is a legally binding document and of importance and can also be used as a receipt of the shipping transaction.
What if I don’t have the required documents?
You may be wondering what happens if you don’t have the documents required to ship a vehicle. Some documents may work in place of others, but it is usually determined on a case-by-case basis. If you aren’t sure you have the right documents, we can help you figure out the best course of action for you and your shipment.
What can cause delays in shipping?
Sometimes delays in shipping cannot be stopped. Sometimes delays in shipping schedules are due to unforeseen circumstances and may include:
- Issues with customs – shipping a car requires paperwork and sometimes the required documents are misplaced or missing. When customs perform an inspection, and a vehicle doesn’t pass, the shipment may be delayed until it is corrected.
- COVID-19 – some ports around the world are still experiencing delays due to the pandemic. There are shortages of workers and a lack of equipment, which is only worsened by the restrictions.
- Port congestions/strikes – too many containers in a port lead to congestion. Whether due to peak season circumstances or extraordinary events, congestion can occur within a port and result in delays. Sometimes when labor strikes occur, ports can experience weeks of delay.
- Extraordinary events – the open sea is not always predictable. There are natural elements at play on the open sea, making it hard for cargo ships to sail. Some of the factors that shipping companies are forced to deal with include piracy, fire, weather, wars, and other events that are described as “force majeure.”
- Miscommunications – there are times when delays are the result of a simple miscommunication between parties. It doesn’t always have to be someone’s fault, sometimes these things happen.