
Car Shipping Calgary
Shipping a Car to Calgary from the United States.
Bringing your car with you when you move to Canada might add more difficulty to what is otherwise an inspiring event. Fortunately, the professionals at A1-AT have years of experience passing through Canadian customs. Don't worry about paperwork and lingo when you can have us do it.
Shipping a car to Calgary from the U.S. involves navigating customs regulations, ensuring vehicle compliance, and managing associated costs. Understanding the process can help prevent delays and unexpected expenses.
Ensure Vehicle Eligibility and Compliance
Before initiating the shipping process, verify that your vehicle is eligible for import into Canada. Transport Canada provides a list of admissible vehicles, and it's crucial to ensure your car meets Canadian safety and environmental standards. Modifications, such as installing daytime running lights or changing the odometer to kilometers, may be required. Additionally, obtain a recall clearance letter from the manufacturer to confirm that there are no outstanding recalls on the vehicle.
Understand the Import Process and Required Documentation
The import process involves several steps:
- U.S. Customs Notification: Notify U.S. Customs and Border Protection at least 72 hours before export.
- Documentation: Prepare necessary documents, including the vehicle title, bill of sale, and proof of ownership.
- Canadian Customs: Present your documents to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) upon arrival. You must complete Form 1 and pay the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) fee.
- Inspection: After importation, your vehicle must pass a federal inspection within 45 days to ensure compliance with Canadian standards.
Budget for Associated Costs
Importing a vehicle comes with various fees:
- RIV Fee: $195.00 plus GST (or GST and QST in Quebec).
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): 5% of the vehicle's value.
- Inspection Fees: These can vary but are typically between $100 and $200.
- Modification Costs: Additional expenses will apply if your car requires changes to meet Canadian standards.
Awareness of these costs upfront can help you budget effectively and avoid surprises during the import process.
By thoroughly preparing and understanding the requirements, you can ensure a smooth transition when shipping your car to Calgary.

Cost & Time For Shipments
To/From Calgary | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
---|---|---|---|
Calgary to San Jose, CA | $200 | $1100 | 5+12 days |
Las Vegas, NV, to the Area | $450 | $1100 | 5+12 days |
Portland, OR, to this City | $475 | $1100 | 6+12 days |
Local Delivery to Seattle, WA | $550 | $1100 | 6+12 days |
Charlotte, NC to the Area | $575 | $1100 | 6+12 days |
Chicago, IL to Calgary | $675 | $1100 | 6+12 days |
Local Area to Atlanta, GA | $700 | $1100 | 6+12 days |
Denver, CO, to this City | $775 | $1100 | 7+12 days |
Memphis, TN to the Area | $800 | $1100 | 6+12 days |
City Limits to Houston, TX | $1,075 | $1100 | 7+12 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.

*Save the ground cost by delivering to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional 10 days to process the documents.
*Prices are for 1 car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to haul internationally. Other items may be included in the container to help save you money when moving.
*The RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and shipments can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.

Location
Calgary is located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers in the western Canadian province of Alberta. One of the nation’s largest cities by population, it hosts many massive corporations and numerous expats, especially in the oil industry. The Canadian Pacific Railway and an array of national highways serve as haulers.
Required Paperwork
The documentation required by customs is relatively straightforward, but be sure to bring along the following:
- The original title or a copy certified by the DMV.
- A notarized copy of your passport or other photo identification.

Hauling
Take a look at the two options for style:
- Roll-on/roll-off– The most economical method is simply driving aboard a carrier vessel and off again at the destination. Don’t worry – vehicles are secured in place with heavy-duty straps, making this a very safe choice.
- Container method—If your auto is particularly valuable, especially an antique, you might consider moving it in a 20—or 40-foot cargo container. For a small additional cost, you’ll get an unparalleled level of protection.
There are multiple pickup options as well. Terminal-to-terminal service requires you to bring it to the point of departure and pick it up upon arrival. With door-to-door service, on the other hand, a mover will come to your home or another location of your choice to collect it. It can then be delivered to the point of your choosing within Calgary.
How to Prepare the Vehicle
Following these steps will expedite the entire process:
- Dirty cars can get held up during inspection at the border, so wash and vacuum yours thoroughly.
- You’ll also want to remove all personal belongings from the car and detach any external accessories, such as bike racks.
- Ensure that the battery is charged properly and that the alarm system is disabled to prevent it from draining during transit.
- Please leave roughly a quarter tank of fuel to assist in moving it as necessary. Also, double-check for any fuel or other fluid leaks.

Final Note
Canadian Customs lists several rules and regulations to follow when importing. Bear these in mind:
- The Canadian Registrar of Imported Vehicles lists autos that may have restricted access due to specifications regarding emissions or other factors. Please take a look at their website to determine whether it is acceptable.
- As the US Customs 72-Hour Export Law dictates, a copy of the title must be submitted to the border crossing station at least 72 hours before passage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to ship a car from the U.S. to Calgary?
Shipping a vehicle from the U.S. to Calgary typically ranges between $2,000 and $3,500 USD. The total cost depends on factors like distance, vehicle size, transport method (open or enclosed), and additional services. For instance, shipping from Miami to Calgary (~2,500 miles) falls within this range. Additional fees may include customs duties, taxes, and inspection charges.
What documents are required to import a car into Canada?
To import a vehicle into Canada, you'll need the original title, bill of sale, and a completed Vehicle Import Form (Form 1) provided by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Additionally, a recall clearance letter from the manufacturer and proof of compliance with Canadian safety and emissions standards are necessary. Ensure all documents are submitted to U.S. Customs at least 72 hours before export.
Can I ship a leased car to Calgary from the U.S.?
Yes, but you'll need written consent from the leasing company authorizing the export of the vehicle to Canada. It's essential to review your lease agreement for any restrictions and coordinate with both the leasing company and the shipping provider to ensure compliance with all regulations.
How long does it take to ship a car to Calgary from the U.S.?
Transit times vary based on the origin and shipping method. Generally, shipping a car from the U.S. to Calgary takes between 7 to 14 days. Factors such as weather conditions, customs clearance, and carrier schedules can influence the delivery timeline.
Are there terminal options for car shipping in Calgary?
Yes, several shipping companies offer terminal services in Calgary. For example, US Canada Auto Transport has a terminal located at 5310 27 St SE, Calgary, AB T2C 1M7, providing convenient drop-off and pick-up options.