Ship a Car from the USA to Canada

Overview of Vehicle Shipping from the USA to Canada

Each year, thousands of vehicles are transported from the United States into Canadian provinces for relocation, seasonal travel, vehicle purchases, and family moves. Cross-border car shipping between the USA and Canada requires coordination between U.S. export procedures and Canadian import requirements, which is why many customers rely on experienced carriers that regularly operate along these international routes.

Many shipments originate from major population centers in states such as California, Texas, Florida, and New York, where demand for cross-border vehicle transport is high. From these locations, vehicles are commonly transported to destinations throughout Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, and other Canadian provinces using established carrier lanes and major border crossings.

Understanding how the export process works, what paperwork is required, and how long cross-border shipping typically takes can help ensure a smooth vehicle transport experience between the United States and Canada.

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Export Requirements from the United States

When shipping a car from the United States to Canada, the vehicle must first be legally exported through U.S. Customs before it can be imported into Canada. This process involves submitting vehicle information in advance and ensuring the correct documentation is presented at the border.

One of the key steps is completing an AES filing, which generates an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) used by U.S. Customs to track the export. In most cases, export documentation must be submitted at least 72 hours before the vehicle crosses the border, allowing customs officials time to review the vehicle title and ownership information.

The vehicle’s original title or ownership document must also be provided for inspection at the designated export office at the border crossing. Once the documentation is verified and cleared by U.S. Customs, the vehicle is officially approved for export and can continue to Canada for the import process.

For a detailed breakdown of the paperwork required for cross-border vehicle transport, see our guide to US–Canada vehicle shipping documents.

Import Requirements in Canada

After the vehicle clears export procedures in the United States, it must be formally imported into Canada through the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). At the border crossing, customs officers review the vehicle documentation, confirm ownership, and process the required import forms before the vehicle can legally enter the country.

Many vehicles imported into Canada must also go through the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program. The RIV process verifies that the vehicle meets Canadian safety and compliance standards. Depending on the vehicle’s age and manufacturer specifications, certain modifications may be required before the vehicle can be registered for road use in Canada.

Importing a vehicle may also involve duties and taxes, depending on where the vehicle was manufactured and the province where it will be registered. Canadian-built or U.S.-built vehicles often qualify for reduced or zero import duty under trade agreements, while vehicles manufactured in other countries may be subject to additional tariffs.

In addition, the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) must comply with Canadian import regulations and be accepted within the RIV system. Ensuring the VIN, title documentation, and export records are properly submitted helps prevent delays when the vehicle arrives at the Canadian border.

Typical Routes into Canada

Vehicles shipped from the United States into Canada often follow established carrier corridors that connect major U.S. population centers with key border crossings. These routes allow carriers to consolidate shipments efficiently while reducing transit times for long-distance vehicle transport.

One common corridor connects California through the Pacific Northwest into western Canada., serving customers relocating to Vancouver and surrounding regions. Another major route runs from Texas into the Canadian Prairies, supporting relocations to cities such as Calgary and Edmonton.

Seasonal demand also creates strong transport lanes between Florida and central Canada, particularly during the fall and spring migration of Canadian snowbirds returning home. In the northeastern United States, vehicles frequently move through established routes from New York and the Northeast into Quebec and Ontario.

These established carrier lanes help ensure consistent transit schedules and reliable vehicle delivery into Canada.

Transport Options

Open vs. Enclosed Vehicle Transport

When shipping a car from the United States to Canada, customers can choose between open transport and enclosed transport. The best option depends on the vehicle type, budget, and level of protection desired during cross-border transit.

Open Transport

Open transport is the most common and cost-effective method for shipping vehicles across the U.S.–Canada border. Cars are loaded onto an open carrier trailer, similar to the trucks used to deliver new vehicles to dealerships.

Because open carriers can transport multiple vehicles at once, this option typically offers lower shipping costs and faster scheduling availability. Open transport works well for standard passenger vehicles, SUVs, and trucks that do not require special protection from weather or road debris.

Many cross-border shipments traveling from states such as California, Texas, Florida, and New York into Canadian provinces are handled using open carriers operating along established transport lanes.

Best for:

Standard vehicles
Everyday sedans and SUVs
Customers seeking the most economical shipping option

open car transport truck carrying vehicles across the USA Canada border

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport provides additional protection by shipping the vehicle inside a fully enclosed trailer. This option protects the vehicle from weather, road debris, and outside exposure during transit.

Enclosed carriers are commonly used for luxury vehicles, classic cars, exotic vehicles, and collector cars where additional protection is important. Because enclosed trailers carry fewer vehicles and operate on more specialized routes, this option typically costs more than open transport.

Customers shipping high-value vehicles across the U.S.–Canada border often choose enclosed transport for the added security and peace of mind.

Best for:

Luxury or exotic vehicles
Classic or collector cars
Vehicles requiring maximum protection

enclosed vehicle transport trailer used for cross-border car shipping

Provinces Organized by Region

Western Canada

Alberta
British Columbia
Saskatchewan
Manitoba

Central & Eastern Canada

Ontario
Quebec
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia

Canadian Provinces We Serve

We provide cross-border vehicle shipping from the United States to destinations across Canada. Our transport network regularly handles shipments into major provinces including Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

Whether you are relocating, purchasing a vehicle, or returning home after a seasonal stay in the United States, our team coordinates export documentation, customs clearance, and delivery into your destination province.

Select your destination below to learn more about shipping a car from the USA to a specific Canadian province, including typical routes, customs procedures, and transport options.

Ship a Car from USA to Alberta

Many customers ship vehicles from the USA to Alberta, especially Calgary and Edmonton. Routes from Texas, Arizona, and California are popular among snowbirds and workers relocating north. Learn more about shipping to Alberta.

Ship a Car from USA to British Columbia

British Columbia is one of the busiest provinces for cross-border car shipping, with most vehicles headed to Vancouver and surrounding areas. Common routes include shipments from California, Washington, and other West Coast states. Whether you’re relocating or traveling seasonally, we handle customs clearance and safe delivery into BC. Learn more about shipping to British Columbia.

Ship a Car from USA to Saskatchewan

We arrange car transport into Regina and Saskatoon from across the USA. Long-haul routes from Florida and Texas are common, especially for relocations. Learn more about shipping to Saskatchewan.

Ship a Car from USA to Manitoba

Winnipeg is a central hub for auto shipping into Manitoba. Popular routes include vehicles shipped from the Midwest USA. Learn more about shipping to Manitoba.

Ship a Car from USA to Ontario

Ontario is Canada’s top destination for auto transport from the USA, serving Toronto, Ottawa, and Windsor. Routes from New York, Michigan, Florida, and California are especially popular, particularly for snowbirds heading north in spring. With decades of experience, we make moving a vehicle across the border simple and cost-effective. Learn more about shipping to Ontario.

Ship a Car from USA to Quebec

Many customers ship vehicles from the USA into Quebec, with Montreal as the most common endpoint. Popular routes include shipments from New York, Boston, and other East Coast cities. Our team handles all customs documentation and ensures smooth delivery into Quebec. Learn more about shipping to Quebec.

Ship a Car from USA to New Brunswick

Car shipping into New Brunswick often serves customers relocating or sending vehicles to family. We frequently handle shipments from New England and the eastern USA. Learn More about shipping to New Brunswick.

Ship a Car from USA to Nova Scotia

Halifax is a common endpoint for vehicles shipped from the USA. Popular routes include shipments from Florida and the East Coast. Learn more about shipping to Nova Scotia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Transit time depends on the distance between the pickup location in the United States and the destination province in Canada. Most cross-border shipments take 5–10 days, including the required 72-hour export processing period before the vehicle crosses the border. Longer routes from states such as California or Florida may take slightly more time depending on carrier availability.

In most cases, customers do not need to be present at the border. Once the required export documentation and vehicle title have been submitted, the carrier handles the border crossing and coordinates the export inspection with U.S. Customs. Our team manages the paperwork to ensure the vehicle clears both U.S. export and Canadian import procedures.

Exporting a vehicle from the United States typically requires the original vehicle title, an AES filing that generates an ITN number, and submission of export documentation at least 72 hours before the vehicle reaches the border crossing. U.S. Customs reviews the paperwork to verify ownership and approve the export before the vehicle enters Canada. For a full breakdown of the required steps, see our guide to US–Canada vehicle shipping documents.

Import duties depend on where the vehicle was manufactured and the province where it will be registered. Vehicles manufactured in the United States or Canada may qualify for reduced or zero import duty, while vehicles manufactured in other countries may be subject to additional tariffs and taxes. Canadian import regulations may also require compliance with the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program.

Yes. Many Canadian snowbirds ship their vehicles between the United States and Canada each year when traveling seasonally. Routes between Florida and Ontario are especially common during the fall and spring, when customers arrange transport for their vehicles instead of driving long distances across the border.

Car Shipping Costs to Canada from USA. Starting Prices (USD)

From	To	Starting Price (USD)
Los Angeles	Toronto	2,150+
Houston	Toronto	1,650+
Dallas	Toronto	1,650+
Fort Lauderdale	Toronto	1,475+
Tampa	Toronto	1,475+
San Francisco	Toronto	2,150+
Phoenix	Toronto	2,150+
Denver	Toronto	1,950+
Seattle	Toronto	2,250+
Chicago	Toronto	1,475+
Los Angeles	Vancouver	1,775+
Houston	Vancouver	2,250+
Dallas	Vancouver	2,250+
Fort Lauderdale	Vancouver	2,450+
Tampa	Vancouver	2,450+
San Francisco	Vancouver	1,775+
Phoenix	Vancouver	1,775+
Denver	Vancouver	1,775+
Seattle	Vancouver	825+
Chicago	Vancouver	2,150+
Los Angeles	Montreal	2,350+
Houston	Montreal	1,750+
Dallas	Montreal	1,750+
Fort Lauderdale	Montreal	1,675+
Tampa	Montreal	1,675+
San Francisco	Montreal	2,350+
Phoenix	Montreal	2,350+
Denver	Montreal	2,150+
Seattle	Montreal	2,450+
Los Angeles	Calgary	1,950+
Houston	Calgary	2,450+
Dallas	Calgary	2,450+
Fort Lauderdale	Calgary	2,550+
Tampa	Calgary	2,550+
San Francisco	Calgary	1,950+
Phoenix	Calgary	1,950+
Denver	Calgary	1,950+
Seattle	Calgary	1,850+
Los Angeles	Edmonton	1,950+
Houston	Edmonton	1,950+
Dallas	Edmonton	1,950+
Fort Lauderdale	Edmonton	2,550+
Tampa	Edmonton	2,550+
San Francisco	Edmonton	1,950+
Phoenix	Edmonton	1,950+
Denver	Edmonton	1,950+
Seattle	Edmonton	1,850+

* Starting prices are estimates. Actual cost varies by vehicle size, timing, route, and duties/taxes.

Reasons for Shipping a Car to Canada

When shipping a car from the USA to Canada, Canadian Customs requires a declaration of purpose. Below are the common purposes for bringing a car into Canada:

A Canadian Leased Vehicle Being Returned to Canada
If your leased vehicle was temporarily in the USA, it can be shipped back to Canada.
Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident Returning with a Canadian Vehicle
Vehicles with Canadian titles, including those used by snowbirds during extended stays in the USA, are commonly returned to Canada.
Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident Returning with a US-Titled Vehicle
If you’ve purchased a car in the USA during your stay, you can bring it home with proper documentation.
Canadian Vehicle Returning to Canada After Repairs or Modifications in the USA
Canadian vehicles serviced or customized in the USA can return without import taxes, provided the work is documented.
Into Canada as a Gift
Vehicles gifted to Canadian residents must meet import requirements, and the recipient must declare the vehicle.

Into Canada as a New Immigrant
New immigrants to Canada are allowed to bring their vehicles, typically duty-free, as part of their relocation.
Into Canada as a Purchase
Whether buying from a dealership or a private seller in the USA, vehicles can be imported with the proper approvals.
Into Canada as an Inheritance
Vehicles received through inheritance must comply with Canadian import regulations but may qualify for exemptions.
Into Canada for Repairs and Modifications
Temporary imports for repairs or upgrades are permissible, but specific requirements must be followed.
Into Canada for Vacation
Visitors driving into Canada temporarily may bring their vehicles without the need for permanent importation.
Into Canada on a Work or Student Visa
Temporary residents on work or study visas can bring vehicles for the duration of their stay, subject to certain conditions.

★★★★★ 5 / 5 based on 10 customer reviews for shipping a car to Canada

“Just a while ago, I moved to Ontario, Canada and had left my car in GA, USA. I was looking for a reliable and budget friendly option to get my car across the border to Canada. After all searches found ‘US Canada Auto Transport’. Selwyn, Dion, Julia & team took care of all necessary paperwork online and transported my car within 7 days. Happy with my experience. Great Team!! Highly recommended. Special thanks to Selwyn :)!!”

— Sanjay Verma, 5★ (April 2025)

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Nick T

02:24 06 Feb 26

Julia was extremely helpful. My first time making a move and she made it easy. Driver was on the ball, kept me posted and friendly. Would definitely recommend this company. Used Julia for second time transporting my vehicle back to Canada. She made it easy. The Customs broker she used was friendly and made things simple.

F S

23:10 07 Dec 25

Shipped my car with them from Texas, US to Quebec, CA. Whole process was smooth. They took care of all the paper work at the border. I was shipping my Canadian car back to Canada from Texas so paper work was simpler. Total transit time was about 7 days. They were also very competitive on pricing. All in all it was stress free, to ship my car with them. Recommend.

21:55 06 Jun 25

I’m so grateful to US Canada Auto Transport for delivering my minivan from the US to Canada. The service was excellent and fast! Among the three companies I got quotes from, they offered the most affordable price. I highly recommend them and wish the company continued success.

Sanjay Verma

02:56 25 Apr 25

Just a while ago, I moved to Ontario, Canada and had left my car in GA, USA. I was looking for a reliable and budget friendly option to get my car across the border to Canada. After all searches found “US Canada Auto Transport”. Selwyn, Dion, Julia & team took care of all necessary paperwork online and transported my car within 7 days. Happy with my experience. Great Team!! Highly recommended. Special thanks to Selwyn 🙂!!

A Goite

20:12 22 Mar 25

We are pleased with the transport of our vehicle from California to Canada. It was our first time transporting a car across borders and the folks at US Canada Auto Transport made everything straightforward and easy to follow. We are using them for the transport of our second vehicle coming up shortly, so to say we'd use their service again is clear! Thanks to Julia, especially for her quick communication!

Kenneth Combs

20:06 18 Mar 25

Great service! Julia was amazing. She provided great insight and clarification what the process would be to transport our clients RV into Canada.

Pratik Umashanker Tiwari

04:24 17 Aug 24

It was a great experience with a smooth transport of my vehicle from US to Canada. Special thanks to Debbie & Julia for their Support throughout. I highly recommend this service.

yangju lin

19:18 27 Jun 24

Great experience with them. I got my 2010 Nissan SUV shipped from CA to Canada. The whole process is straightforward.They prodived detailed instructions for required documents and then scheduled the pick up. I went to claim my car once it is delivered. They also provided instructions on the RIV form.Overall, great service and price.

GPlus Elevator

18:17 27 Jun 24

I have moved from California to Ottawa Canada. I was searching for a movers who can ship my car to Canada. I found US Canada Auto Transport. They are simply awesome. On-time they came to my home in California and pickup the car and on-time they delivered in Ottawa. No damage to the car. I am happy on their service.

Helena Rivers

16:02 29 May 24

This was my first time shipping a vehicle from the US to Canada and US Canada Auto Transport has made the process very easy for me. Selwyn was exceptionally patient with all my questions; was very helpful and answered all my emails within minutes. I definitely recommend US Canada Auto Transport for all your vehicle transporting needs.

KSM Luck

17:57 08 Apr 24

Julia,I just want to thank you for providing great service transferring my car to US and back to Canada. It was very pleasure and stress-free experience for us.Thank you again to you & your team.

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Whether you’re shipping to bustling Ontario cities like Toronto or rural areas, we’re here to help. Contact us now to learn how we make shipping cars from the USA to Canada seamless and stress-free.

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External Resource

For more details about importing a car into Canada, visit the Canada Border Services Agency Vehicle Importation Guidelines.