Ship Car to Ottawa with A1 Auto Transport

Ship Car to Ottawa Safely and Affordably with A1 Auto Transport

Car Shipping Ottawa

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Shipping A Car To Ottawa From The United States.

Is a trip to Canada in your future? While this is an exciting moment, there are some drawbacks, especially if you want to bring your car. Thankfully, you can rely on the professionals at A-1 Auto Transport to assist you. Let us handle the customs paperwork so you can concentrate on what matters. We have decades of experience delivering autos to Ottawa and beyond.

Proper Shipping Method for Your Vehicle

Selecting the appropriate shipping method is crucial when transporting your vehicle to Ottawa. Open transport is a cost-effective option suitable for standard vehicles, offering quicker scheduling but exposing your car to weather elements. Enclosed transport, while more expensive, provides added protection, making it ideal for luxury or classic cars. Additionally, Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is available for operable vehicles, where the car is driven onto the transport vessel and secured for the journey. Each method has advantages; your choice should align with your vehicle's value, condition, and budget considerations.

Costs and Insurance for U.S. to Ottawa Car Shipping

When budgeting for car shipping to Ottawa, it's essential to consider various factors influencing the overall cost. The shipping method—open or enclosed transport—affects pricing, with enclosed transport offering more protection at a higher cost. Distance, vehicle size, and seasonal demand also determine the final price. Insurance is another critical component; most auto transport companies offer coverage, but it's advisable to confirm the extent of protection and consider additional insurance if necessary. Understanding these elements ensures you're well-prepared financially for the shipping process.

Cost & Time Examples For Shifting

To/From	Ground	Ocean	Estimated Time
New York, NY to (New York port) to Ottawa	$275	$700	5+7 days
Local Delivery to (California port) to Los Angeles	$350	$900	5+10 days
Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to Local Area	$450	$900	5+10 days
City Limits to (California port) to Portland, OR	$475	$900	6+10 days
Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to the Area	$550	$900	6+10 days
Ottawa to (New York port) to Columbus, OH	$550	$700	5+7 days
Charlotte, NC to (New York port) to Local Area	$575	$700	6+7 days
Local Delivery to (New York port) to Chicago, IL	$675	$700	6+7 days
Miami, FL to (New York port) to the Area	$925	$700	7+7 days
Ottawa to (California port) to Dallas, TX	$1,025	$900	7+10 days

*Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle.

*Save on ground transport costs by delivering the vehicle to the nearest port.

Preparing Your Vehicle for a Smooth Shipping Experience

Proper preparation of your vehicle can significantly impact the efficiency of the shipping process. Start by thoroughly cleaning your car inside and out to facilitate a clear inspection. Remove all personal belongings and any non-permanent accessories. Ensure the gas tank is about a quarter full, the battery is fully charged, and the alarm system is disabled. These steps not only help in passing inspections but also prevent potential issues during transit. Taking the time to prepare your vehicle properly contributes to a smoother and more reliable shipping experience.

*Allow an additional 10 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.

*Using the RoRo (roll on, roll off) method is less expensive, and loads can be completed in fewer days. Contact us now for a free RoRo quote.

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Import Duties and Taxes

Knowing the associated duties and taxes is essential when importing a vehicle into Canada. Vehicles manufactured outside North America are subject to a 6.1% import duty. Additionally, all imported cars incur a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5%, and depending on the province, a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) may apply. For instance, Ontario imposes an HST of 13%. These costs can significantly impact the total expense of shipping your car to Ottawa, so it's advisable to calculate these fees in advance to budget accordingly.

Customs and Compliance for Cross-Border Car Shipping

Shipping a car from the U.S. to Ottawa involves more than just transportation; it requires careful attention to customs regulations and compliance standards. Before initiating the shipping process, ensure your vehicle meets Canadian import requirements. This includes verifying that your car is admissible under the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program, which mandates that cars under 15 years old comply with Canadian safety standards. Essential documentation includes the vehicle's title, bill of sale, and a recall clearance letter. Additionally, a customs broker typically handles an AES (Automated Export System) filing is required 72 hours before export. Being thorough with these steps helps prevent delays and ensures a smoother transition through customs.

Location.

Canada’s capital sits in southern Ontario, at the confluence of three major rivers: the Ottawa, Gatineau, and Rideau. This location is popular for expats, with over 20% of the city’s foreign-born population. Being so close to the border means no lack of reliable vehicle transportation options, and the town boasts numerous rail and road connections to locations all over the USA.

Options For Transit.

Shipping to the area takes two forms – pick the one that’s right for your needs:

Ro/Ro Shifting: Roll-on/roll-off services are economical and convenient for most customers. Your vehicle will be driven directly aboard the transport vessel, and off again once it reaches the area. Straps secure the cars in place during transit.
Container Hauling: Vehicles may instead be loaded into cargo containers, which offer additional protection from damage and the elements. Those shipping antiques or other highly valuable items may appreciate the safety factor.

showcasing a large group of containers on a vessel

The actual delivery can take two forms as well:

Terminal-to-Terminal: You will drop off the vehicle at the port of departure and pick it up at the terminal in Ottawa upon arrival.
Door-to-Door: Door-to-door service brings the shipper to you. Your car will be collected at your home and delivered to the point of your choosing in the area.

Navigating Canadian Customs.

Check Canada’s Registrar of Imported Vehicles to ensure your vehicle is permissible. Note also that the 72-Hour Export Law requires you to submit a copy of the title to the border crossing at least 72 hours in advance. If everything is in order, make sure you can provide the following documents on arrival:

The vehicle’s original title, or a DMV-certified copy.
Notarized copy of your photo ID (passport or other).
Note that vehicles arriving in Ottawa from the US are subject to customs duties, which depend on value and other specifications. For full details, refer to the Canada Border Services Agency.

Final Preparations.

Completing the checks on this list will ensure that your vehicle is ready to roll:

Scrub and vacuum the vehicle thoroughly. This will speed up the inspection process considerably.
Remove all personal belongings and external fixtures like ski racks.
Ensure that both the foot and emergency brakes are working correctly.
Fill the gas tank roughly one-quarter full.
Check the battery level, and disable the alarm system (otherwise, it’s likely to drain the battery during transit).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship a car to Ottawa if it’s not running?

Yes, non-operational vehicles can be shipped to Ottawa, but they require special equipment like winches or liftgates for loading and unloading. Be sure to mention the vehicle’s condition when booking, as this may affect the cost and equipment needed.

Are there import taxes or duties when shipping a car to Ottawa from the U.S.?

Yes, importing a car into Canada involves taxes and duties. Typically, you'll need to pay a 10% import duty and a 23% VAT. Additionally, customs paperwork must be submitted 72 hours prior to crossing the border.

How do I track my car shipment to Ottawa?

Many auto transport companies offer tracking services that allow you to monitor your vehicle's progress in real-time. It's advisable to confirm the availability of tracking options with your chosen carrier before booking.

Can I ship personal items inside my car to Ottawa?

While some carriers may allow a limited number of personal items inside the vehicle during transport, it's generally recommended to remove all personal belongings. Shipping personal items can affect the vehicle's weight and may not be covered by insurance.

What documents are needed to ship a car from the U.S. to Ottawa?

To ship a car from the U.S. to Ottawa, you'll need to provide the vehicle title, bill of sale, and proof of insurance. Additionally, an export declaration must be filed with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and a vehicle import form submitted to the Canada Border Services Agency.