Shipping a Car to Montreal from the United States
When planning to relocate from the US to Canada, you've got a lot on your plate. Most folks planning an international move need to ship some personal belongings—often, this includes their car. Vehicle importation into any country is subject to several rules, regulations, and conditions. Fortunately, A-1 Auto Transport has years of experience shipping vehicles to Montreal and all other parts of Canada and knows how to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
The following is a brief overview of everything you, as the customer, need to know about shipping cars to Montreal.
Shipping a car from the United States to Montreal involves several steps and considerations. Understanding the process can help ensure a smooth and efficient experience.
Import Process
When importing a vehicle into Canada, it's essential to comply with U.S. and Canadian regulations. This includes notifying U.S. Customs and Border Protection at least 72 hours before export and presenting necessary documentation such as the vehicle title, proof of insurance, and identification. Upon arrival in Canada, you must submit the Vehicle Import Form (Form 1) to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and pay applicable taxes and duties.
Compliance with Canadian Standards
Vehicles imported into Canada must meet specific safety and environmental standards. This may involve modifications such as installing daytime running lights, metric speedometers, and child restraint systems. After modifications, the vehicle must pass an inspection within 45 days to receive a Canadian certification label.
Cost & Time Examples For Shipping a Car to Montreal
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, CA to (California port) to the area | $200 | $900 | 5+10 days |
| Local Delivery to (California port) to Los Angeles | $350 | $900 | 5+10 days |
| Montreal to (New York port) to Boston, MA | $400 | $600 | 5+6 days |
| Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to the area | $550 | $900 | 6+10 days |
| Detroit, MI to (New York port) to Montreal | $575 | $600 | 6+6 days |
| Montreal to (New York port) to Chicago, IL | $675 | $600 | 6+6 days |
| Montreal to (New York port) to Atlanta, GA | $700 | $600 | 6+6 days |
| City limits to (California port) to Denver, CO | $775 | $900 | 7+10 days |
| Miami, FL to (New York port) to Montreal | $925 | $600 | 7+6 days |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to Montreal | $1,025 | $900 | 7+10 days |
*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.
*Save ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.
*Allow an additional ten days to process the documents.
*Prices are for one car in a dedicated 20ft container. This is the safest and most reliable way to transport a vehicle 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
Montreal, in the province of Quebec, is the second-largest city in Canada. Its port, the Port of Montreal, is on the St. Lawrence River on Montreal Island. Thanks to its three international container facilities, more than 2,000 cargo ships visit this port every year, making it one of the busiest in the world.
Hauling Options
You’ve got a couple of delivery options to select from when shipping from the US to Montreal:
- Door-to-Door Shipping: With door-to-door service, your car will be picked up from your doorstep, transported to the port or rail station of departure (if applicable), or loaded onto a truck. Upon arrival in Canada, it will be delivered to your chosen destination.
- Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: You may also drop off the vehicle at a shipping terminal and pick it up at the terminal upon arrival in Montreal.
There are also two primary types of transportation options to choose from, depending on your needs and budget:
- Ro/Ro Shipping: Roll-on/roll-off services are available in Montreal. Favored for its affordability and convenience, this option allows your car to be driven directly onto the vessel and off again after arrival. Once it is in place, it will be secured to prevent movement.
- Container Shipping: Vehicles can also be loaded into cargo containers for heightened protection from the elements and collisions. Hardy straps secure the vehicle and container in place. It is a popular choice with owners of antique cars who don’t mind the extra cost.
Required Documents and Permissions
Ensure your vehicle is admissible as per Canada’s Registrar of Imported Vehicles. Other documents that you will need to provide include:
- Original vehicle title/DMV-certified copy
- Copy of your photo ID
According to the 72-Hour Export Law, the United States Customs office requires you to send a copy of the vehicle’s original title to the border crossing you’ll use. This must be done at least 72 hours beforehand. Failure to do so will result in the vehicle being held up at the border and can incur a $500 fine.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Hauling
Complete the items on this list to prepare your vehicle for shipping.
- Clean your car thoroughly to expedite inspection and avoid long times spent in quarantine.
- Remove all personal belongings from the car.
- Ensure that the brakes (both foot and emergency) are fully functional.
- Leave the gas tank roughly ¼ full.
- Ensure the insurance documents are left inside the car or carried with you during inspection time.
- Shut the alarms off, and lower/remove any antennae.
Customs Duties
Vehicles arriving in Montreal from a U.S. point of origin are subject to specific customs duties, which depend on their value and various other factors. For specifics, refer to the Canada Border Services Agency.
Costs and Fees
Importing a car into Canada incurs various costs, including:
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): 5% of the vehicle's value.
- Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) Fee: $325 plus GST.
- Inspection Fees: Typically range from $100 to $200.
- Modification Costs: Depending on the vehicle, modifications may cost between $500 and $2,000.
Budgeting these expenses is essential to avoid unexpected costs during the import process.
Choosing a Shipping Method
Several shipping methods are available when transporting your car to Montreal:
- Rail Transport: An efficient and cost-effective option for long distances.
- Truck Transport: Offers flexibility and door-to-door service.
- Enclosed Transport: Protects from the elements, ideal for high-value vehicles.
Selecting the appropriate method depends on your budget, timeline, and the level of protection desired for your vehicle.
Conclusion
Shipping a car from the U.S. to Montreal requires careful planning and adherence to regulations. Understanding the import process, ensuring compliance with Canadian standards, budgeting for associated costs, and selecting the appropriate shipping method can facilitate a smooth and successful vehicle importation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to ship my car to Montreal?
To ship your car to Montreal, you'll need the vehicle's original title, a bill of sale, a valid passport or driver's license, and a bill of lading.Additionally, a completed Vehicle Import Form (Form 1) is necessary for customs clearance.If the vehicle is less than 15 years old, a recall clearance letter may also be required.
How long can I keep my foreign-registered car in Canada?
Visitors can temporarily import a vehicle into Canada for up to 12 months without registering it, provided the vehicle meets Canadian safety standards.If you plan to stay longer or become a resident, you'll need to register the vehicle in Canada and ensure it complies with all provincial regulations.
What are the typical costs involved in shipping a car to Montreal?
Shipping costs vary based on factors like the vehicle's size, shipping method, and origin.On average, prices range from $500 to $1,200.Additional expenses may include import duties, taxes, port fees, and insurance.
Is insurance mandatory for my car upon arrival in Montreal?
Yes, Canadian law requires all vehicles to have valid insurance coverage while in the country.If your international insurance isn't recognized in Canada, you'll need to purchase local coverage upon arrival.Some shipping companies can assist in arranging this insurance before your car reaches the port.
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