How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car to Canada from the USA?

Shipping Your Vehicle from the USA to Canada: Cost Factors and Considerations

If you're relocating to Canada or planning an extended stay, bringing your vehicle can be smart. While some people choose to drive across the border, that's not always practical, especially for long distances or tight timelines. In those cases, hiring a car shipping company is often the most efficient and stress-free solution.

At A-1 Auto Transport, we specialize in moving vehicles between the U.S. and Canada, managing every detail from logistics to customs paperwork. Our team understands cross-border regulations and helps ensure your car meets all import requirements without delays.

We’ve transported vehicles along major routes such as Arizona to Saskatchewan, Texas to Edmonton, and Massachusetts to Winnipeg. Whether you’re shipping a standard sedan, SUV, or a luxury car, we tailor each move to your specific needs.

A professional car shipping service may cost more than driving, but it protects your vehicle from wear and saves you considerable time. Most cross-border shipments range from $800 to $1,000, depending on the distance, vehicle type, and shipping method. It's a worthwhile investment for those looking to avoid the hassle of long-distance driving and customs navigation.

Canada or America: Is Your Vehicle an Import or Not?

The first question you must ask yourself is whether your vehicle counts as an import. It is essential if it will remain in Canada for good or serve as your daily driver and you’re a Canadian resident. If you’re visiting, going to school as a foreigner, or working as a foreigner on a temporary visa, the car isn’t an import. If the vehicle is an import, you’ll have to pay import duties and taxes on it when entering the country, and the cost can be as much as $2500 if the vehicle is being shipped to a far distance or area. Luxury cars or oversized SUVs may have an added cost on top of the standard transport cost, though some companies work it into the final bill.

Navigating Import Duties and Taxes

Understanding import duties and taxes is crucial when shipping a car from the USA to Canada. Vehicles manufactured in the U.S., Mexico, or Canada typically qualify for duty-free import under the USMCA agreement. However, cars produced outside North America are subject to a 6.1% import duty based on the vehicle's value. Additionally, all imported cars incur a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST), and depending on the province, a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) may apply. For instance, Ontario imposes an 8% PST, while British Columbia's PST can reach up to 20% for specific vehicle types. Awareness of these taxes helps you budget accurately for the total cost of importing your vehicle.

Understanding the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) Program

The RIV program ensures that imported vehicles meet Canadian safety and environmental standards. Upon arrival, a fee of approximately CAD 325 plus tax is required for the RIV inspection process. This program mandates modifications such as installing daytime running lights and converting speedometers to kilometers per hour if necessary. Completing the RIV process within 45 days of importation is essential to register your vehicle in Canada. Failing to comply can result in additional fees or complications in registering your car.

Relevant Statistics

• On average, it costs $1,750 to ship a car from the USA to Canada.
• Approximately 85% of cars shipped from the USA to Canada are transported via truck.
• The total distance covered when shipping a car from the USA to Canada is around 3,200 kilometers.
• Customs fees and taxes account for about 20% of the total cost of shipping a car from the USA to Canada.
• The average duration for shipping a car from the USA to Canada is 10-14 days.

General Facts

• The cost of shipping a car from the USA to Canada varies depending on distance, vehicle size, and shipping method.
• Shipping a standard-sized car from the USA to Canada costs around $1,000 to $2,500.
• Additional fees may apply for services like door-to-door delivery or expedited shipping.
• Ensuring your vehicle meets Canada's import regulations and requirements before shipping is important.
• Working with a reputable shipping company can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free process when shipping your car to Canada.

Shipping an Auto from the US to Canada: Consider the Size of the Vehicle

Large trucks and SUVs that won’t fit onto a standard trailer space will cost more to ship than a compact car. Generally, transport companies have a cutoff where they will charge more money for an oversized vehicle. It’s important to ask about this when speaking with the car shipping company initially.

Consider the Distance

The total distance covered dictates the cost of transport as well. After all, the auto shipping company needs to account for road time and fuel. Shipping from New York into southern Canada isn’t likely to cost as much as shipping from Florida into northern Canada. Consider how many kilometers must be covered and work that into the cost of the service.

Think about the Shipping Method and Shipping Cost

There are two ways to ship a car: by enclosed trailer and by open-air trailer. An enclosed trailer is nice for smaller vehicles because it provides protection. It’s more expensive than open air because fewer vehicles can be moved simultaneously with this method. Open-air transport puts the vehicle at risk of being damaged during the trip because of exposure to the elements, but the risk is minor. By taking that risk, you’ll enjoy a lower transport fee than going with an enclosed trailer container to its destination.

The actual cost of transportation requires considering all of these factors. The corporation will produce them, so you should do the same.

Fill out the quick estimate form on this page to contact A-1 Auto Transport when you're ready to schedule dependable transport for your car from the USA toCanada from the United States.

Contact A1 Auto Transport today. We'll ship your car at affordable fees, regardless of size or type. We can handle all the complications relating to the car export and import process. Get in touch for more moving tips on your vehicle shipping.

Conclusion: Know the Costs, Ship with Confidence

Shipping a car from the USA to Canada doesn’t have to be complicated. Understanding key cost factors like distance, vehicle size, and import regulations helps you plan ahead and avoid surprises. Whether you're relocating, studying, or visiting for an extended period, professional vehicle transport offers a reliable, time-saving solution. With the right partner, your car will arrive safely, and you'll be ready to hit the road confidently in Canada.