USA to Canada Car Shipping: Common Questions Answered

Planning USA to Canada car shipping? Moving a car north involves US export paperwork, Canadian import rules, duties, and the transport itself, so it’s natural to have questions. This guide answers more than 20 of the most common ones, from documents and costs to timing and vehicle types. US Canada Auto Transport has been shipping cars across the border since 1985.

USA to Canada car shipping: common questions answered

Here are expert answers to the questions we hear most, grouped by topic.

Documents and customs

What documents are required for shipping a car from the USA to Canada?

You need the original vehicle title, the registration, a bill of sale if you bought the car recently, a notarized lien letter if it’s financed, a recall clearance letter from the manufacturer, and a passport or other government ID. The US export is filed in the Automated Export System (AES), and the original title must reach US Customs at least 72 hours before the crossing. At the border, the car is imported with the Vehicle Import Form (Form 1). Our list of US-Canada customs documents covers each one.

Can I ship a leased car from the USA to Canada?

Sometimes. You need written, notarized permission from the leasing company to export the car, plus a copy of the lease. Many leasing companies don’t allow leased vehicles to leave the US, so check with yours before you book.

Are there specific vehicle regulations for importing into Canada?

Yes. Under Canada’s vehicle import rules, the vehicle must be on Transport Canada’s admissibility list and have no open recalls. Vehicles under 15 years old go through the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program and must pass an inspection within 45 days before they can be registered in your province.

Do I need a customs broker for car shipping to Canada?

No, it’s not mandatory. Many people clear the car themselves at the border, but a broker or bonded warehouse can help with complex imports. US Canada Auto Transport helps with the customs paperwork when you ship with us.

What happens if my car is delayed at the border?

Most delays come from missing paperwork, such as a title that didn’t reach US Customs 72 hours ahead, or a customs inspection. We’ll keep you updated and let you know what’s needed. Having your documents ready before pickup is the best way to avoid delays.

Costs, duties and insurance

How are shipping costs calculated?

Shipping costs depend on distance, vehicle size, open or enclosed transport, door-to-door or terminal service, and the season. Short cross-border runs start from about $500, and long-distance routes run about $1,600–2,600 or more. Typical cross-border car shipping rates vary by route, so request a quote for an exact price.

Are there import taxes or duties for shipping a car to Canada?

Yes. You pay 5% GST on the vehicle’s value, plus provincial tax when you register it. A US-built vehicle under 25 years old faces Canada’s 25% surtax, reduced for CUSMA-compliant vehicles, and vehicles built outside North America pay 6.1% duty. Vehicles 25 years or older are exempt from duty and the surtax. There’s also the RIV fee and, for some vehicles, an air conditioning excise tax or Green Levy. Check the current tariff rates before you ship.

Is my car insured during the shipping process?

Yes. Every shipment with our company includes cargo insurance coverage while the car is in transit. You can ask about extra coverage for a high-value vehicle.

What should I do if my car is damaged during shipping?

Note the damage on the delivery report before you sign, take photos, and contact the shipping company right away. Our guide to handling insurance claims after cross-border shipping explains the steps.

What is the cancellation policy if my plans change?

Each company has its own policy, and some charge a fee if you cancel after a carrier is assigned or close to pickup. Review the terms before you book, and tell us as early as possible if your plans change.

Shipping options and terminals

What is the difference between open and enclosed car transport?

Open transport carries your car on an open trailer, exposed to weather and road debris. It’s the most common and affordable option. Enclosed transport protects the car in a covered trailer and suits classic, luxury, or high-value cars. It typically costs 30–60% more. Our open vs. enclosed cost comparison goes into the details.

What is the most common car shipping option?

Door-to-door shipping, where we pick up and deliver at your addresses. You can also use our same-day drop-off service at one of our cross-border terminals. Book first to get your booking number, then drop off the car the same day.

Do car shipping companies have terminal locations?

Yes. US Canada Auto Transport has 18 terminals: 10 for shipping within Canada and 8 for cross-border shipping, in New Westminster BC, Ingersoll ON, Bellingham WA, Lakewood WA, Great Falls MT, Redford Charter Township MI, Chanhassen MN, and Lewiston NY. Terminals accept running vehicles only, with no personal items inside.

Vehicle types

Can I ship a non-operational vehicle?

Usually, yes, with door-to-door transport. Tell us when you book. A non-running vehicle needs a winch to load and unload, so it costs more. Our terminals accept running vehicles only.

Can I ship a motorcycle or RV to Canada?

Motorcycles are shipped by our sister company, AA Motorcycle Shipping. For an RV or other oversized vehicle, contact us with the make, model, and dimensions, and we’ll let you know the options.

Can I ship a vintage or classic car to Canada?

Yes. Classic cars often travel in enclosed transport for extra protection. Vehicles 15 years or older are exempt from RIV, and vehicles 25 years or older are exempt from duty and the surtax, though GST still applies. Our classic car shipping service is built for collector vehicles.

Are there weight restrictions for shipping a car to Canada?

Weight matters less than size. Larger, heavier vehicles, such as full-size pickups and SUVs, take up more space on the carrier and cost more. Give us the exact make, model, and any modifications for an accurate quote.

Preparing, timing and delivery

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

Most shipments take about 7 to 14 days, depending on the distance, the season, and border timing. In peak snowbird season, book four to eight weeks ahead.

Can I ship personal items inside the car?

No. Remove all personal items before shipping. They aren’t insured, and items in the car can cause problems at Canadian customs.

How do I prepare my car for shipping?

Clean the car and photograph it, remove all personal items, keep about a quarter tank of fuel, make sure the battery is charged, disable the alarm, and hand over a spare key. Have your title and documents ready well before pickup.

Can I track the shipping progress of my car?

Yes. We keep you updated throughout the shipment, from pickup through the border crossing to delivery, and you can contact us at any time for a status update.

Can I choose a specific delivery date and time?

We’ll give you an estimated delivery window and work around your schedule as much as possible. Exact dates and times can’t usually be guaranteed, because weather, traffic and border timing can change the schedule.

What are the top reasons to use US Canada Auto Transport?

People ship with us when relocating for work or college, buying a car or classic in the US, and as snowbirds heading home for the summer. We’ve specialized in cross-border shipping since 1985, with door-to-door service, cross-border terminals, and help with the customs paperwork.

Still have questions about USA to Canada car shipping?

If you have more questions about shipping your car from the USA to Canada, reach out to US Canada Auto Transport. Our team is happy to help with the details for your vehicle and route.

The takeaway

Shipping your car from the USA to Canada doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right documents, a clear idea of the costs and duties, and an experienced cross-border carrier, the process is straightforward. US Canada Auto Transport can guide you from pickup to delivery.