How to Ship a Vehicle for Relocation from Canada to the USA: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re moving from Canada to the USA, you can ship a vehicle for relocation instead of driving it thousands of miles. With proper planning, it’s straightforward: a cross-border carrier picks up your car in Canada, the US import is cleared at the border, and the car is delivered to your new home. This guide covers why people relocate vehicles, the US import rules and paperwork, how to prepare your car, and what happens after delivery.

US Canada Auto Transport has been shipping vehicles across the border since 1985, and we handle your vehicle relocation with care so your move is as hassle-free as possible.

What is vehicle relocation?

Vehicle relocation means moving a vehicle from one place to another, often across the border, because you’re moving home, transferring for work, or buying a car in another country. It involves making sure the vehicle is transported safely, complies with the import rules, and arrives in the same condition it was shipped.

Why people relocate vehicles from Canada to the USA

• Moving home: relocating to a new home in the US and bringing your car with you.
• Job transfers: moving for work and keeping your own vehicle. See moving to the USA for work.
• Buying a car in Canada: getting a specific model or a better price.
• Classic and luxury vehicles: collectors moving vehicles to keep or show them. See classic car shipping.
• Seasonal moves: snowbirds shipping vehicles south for the winter. See snowbird auto shipping.

Key considerations for vehicle relocation

Legal compliance: In the US, imported vehicles must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) safety standards and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions standards. Most Canadian-market vehicles need a letter of compliance from the manufacturer to prove this, unless they’re 25 years or older.

Shipping method: Open and enclosed transport each have benefits. Your vehicle’s value and your budget decide which suits you.

Documentation and customs: You’ll need proof of ownership, the US import forms, and the compliance letter. Generally, no Canadian export declaration is needed for a vehicle going to the US.

Insurance: Make sure your vehicle is covered during transit. Every shipment with our company includes cargo insurance coverage.

Costs and fees: Budget for the transport price plus any US duty or tariff and state fees. For typical prices, see the cost to ship a car from Canada to the US.

The vehicle relocation shipping process, step by step

Shipping a vehicle from Canada to the USA has several stages, each with its own requirements. Here’s the breakdown.

1. Research and preparation

Evaluate your vehicle: Check that it’s in good working order and that it meets US safety and emissions standards. Request the letter of compliance from the manufacturer early, as it can take a few weeks.

Choose a shipping method: Open transport is the most common and cost-effective option, though the car is exposed to weather and road conditions. Enclosed transport protects the car in a covered trailer and suits luxury, classic or high-value vehicles. It typically costs 30–60% more. Compare open vs. enclosed car shipping costs.

2. Compliance with US import regulations

US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the EPA, and the DOT each have rules for imported vehicles:

• CBP Form 7501: the US customs entry.
• EPA Form 3520-1: the emissions declaration.
• DOT Form HS-7: the safety standards declaration.
• Letter of compliance: from the manufacturer, for most Canadian-market vehicles under 25 years old.

Customs duties and taxes: Duty depends mainly on where the vehicle was built and its age. Most vehicles under 25 years old face the 25% Section 232 tariff, with USMCA-compliant vehicles paying only on non-US content. Vehicles 25 years or older pay 2.5% duty. You pay these to CBP before the vehicle is released. See our tariffs page for current rates.

3. Preparing your vehicle for shipping

Documents: Gather the original title and registration, the bill of sale if you bought the car recently, a lien release letter if it’s financed, and your insurance documents. See the full list of documents required to import a car into the US.

Clean your vehicle: Clean it inside and out so it’s ready for the condition report and any customs inspection.

Remove all personal items: Take out all personal belongings. They aren’t insured, they may be inspected at customs, and they increase the risk of theft or damage.

Inspect your vehicle: Take dated photos and note any existing damage. This helps resolve any disputes after delivery.

4. Choosing a shipping company

Reputation: Read reviews and check ratings with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). See our customer reviews.

Licensing and insurance: Make sure the company is properly licensed and insured for cross-border shipments.

Quotes: Compare quotes, and be wary of unusually low prices, which can mean poor service or hidden extras.

Track record: Choose a company with proven cross-border experience. US Canada Auto Transport has shipped vehicles across the border since 1985. First time shipping? Read our top tips for first-time cross-border car shippers.

5. The shipping process

Booking: Book well in advance, at least a few weeks ahead or four to eight weeks ahead in peak season. Confirm the pickup and delivery locations, the timing, and the type of transport.

Pickup: The carrier picks up your car at your Canadian address, or you can drop it off at one of our cross-border terminals. Be available at pickup to sign the condition report.

Transit time: Shipping a vehicle from Canada to the USA typically takes 7 to 14 days, depending on distance, weather, and border timing. For route details, see shipping from Ontario, Alberta, or British Columbia to the USA.

Delivery: The vehicle clears US customs at the border and is then delivered to your new address. Keep your documents ready in case they’re needed.

6. After delivery

Inspect the vehicle: Check it against your photos and note any new damage on the delivery report before signing. Then contact the shipping company right away. See how to handle insurance claims after cross-border shipping.

Registration and title: Title and register the car in your new state. Requirements vary, so check with your state’s DMV. Keep your stamped customs entry and EPA and DOT forms, as the DMV may ask for them.

Insurance: Arrange US insurance for your vehicle based on its new location and use.

Tips for a smooth vehicle relocation

• Plan ahead: Allow time for the compliance letter, booking and any delays.
• Keep records: Keep copies of all documents and correspondence.
• Stay in touch: We’ll keep you updated on your vehicle’s status throughout the shipment. Moving with your whole household? See moving from Canada to the U.S.: how to handle your vehicle.

Takeaway

Shipping a vehicle from Canada to the USA takes careful planning and attention to the import rules. By understanding the process, preparing your vehicle, and choosing an experienced cross-border company, you can make your relocation hassle-free. For more, see our guide to importing cars between the USA and Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ship a vehicle for relocation from Canada to the USA?

Check that the vehicle can enter the US (usually with a manufacturer’s letter of compliance), gather the title, registration, and bill of sale, book a cross-border carrier, and have the US import entry filed with CBP Form 7501, EPA Form 3520-1, and DOT Form HS-7. Then register the car in your new state. See how to import a car from Canada to the US.

Do I need a Canadian export permit to ship my car to the US?

Generally no. Canada doesn’t usually require an export declaration for a vehicle going to the US. The main paperwork is on the US import side.

Do I pay duty when relocating my car to the US?

It depends on where the vehicle was built and its age. Most vehicles under 25 years old face the 25% Section 232 tariff, with USMCA-compliant vehicles paying only on non-US content. Vehicles 25 years or older are excluded and pay 2.5% duty. See our tariffs page for current rates.

Can I pack household items in my car when relocating?

No. Remove all personal items before shipping. Carriers don’t insure belongings, and items in the car can cause problems at customs. Ship household goods with your moving company instead.

How long does it take to ship a car from Canada to the USA?

Typically 7 to 14 days, depending on the distance, the season, and border timing. Short routes from BC to Arizona or California can take as little as 4 to 8 days.

What if my Canadian vehicle doesn’t meet US standards?

Ask the manufacturer for a letter of compliance first. If the vehicle doesn’t comply and is under 25 years old, it may need a Registered Importer to modify it, which can be costly. Check before you book. See our letter of compliance guide.