Moving to Canada from the US.
One of the most popular international relocation destinations for Americans, offering familiar culture, excellent healthcare, and strong residency programs. Terra Relocations coordinates complete door-to-door international moves from anywhere in the United States to Canada, including professional packing, customs documentation, freight coordination, and destination delivery.
Whether you are relocating for work, retirement, family, or a new chapter, Terra provides structured, transparent relocation planning with a dedicated coordinator managing every stage of your move to Canada.
Shipping and service options to Canada.
Terra offers multiple freight and service configurations for moves to Canada. The right combination depends on your shipment volume, timeline, budget, and destination requirements.
Full Container Load (FCL)
Your household goods fill a dedicated 20ft or 40ft container. Sealed at origin, opened at destination. Fastest ocean option with lowest damage risk.
Less than Container (LCL)
Your shipment shares container space with other shipments heading to the same region. Cost-effective for smaller volumes.
Groupage / GRP
Terra consolidates multiple client shipments into shared containers on the same route. Can offer cost savings over standard LCL.
Air Freight
Priority shipping by air for time-sensitive items or essential belongings needed before the ocean shipment arrives.
Door-to-Door Service
Complete coordination from your US home to your new home in Canada. Includes packing, freight, customs, and delivery.
Storage Solutions
Secure warehouse storage at origin before departure or at destination while awaiting customs clearance or housing arrangement.
What does it cost to move to Canada?
International moving costs depend on many variables. A full-service 20ft container relocation may typically range from approximately $5,000 to $12,000 or more, depending on route, volume, packing level, access conditions, storage requirements, crating, destination services, customs duties, and seasonal freight conditions.
Smaller shipments using LCL or groupage may cost less, while larger moves, specialty items, or air freight will adjust the total accordingly. Terra provides customized estimates after reviewing your specific inventory and requirements.
How long does shipping take to Canada?
Transit times vary based on the freight method, port of departure, sailing or flight schedules, customs processing, and final destination within Canada. The ranges below are approximate and represent typical conditions.
Actual delivery times may be longer due to customs inspections, port congestion, weather, or destination logistics. Terra provides estimated timelines during the planning stage and provides updates throughout transit.
Customs guidance for Canada.
Canada allows duty-free import of personal effects for new immigrants and returning Canadians. A detailed goods-to-follow list (B4) must be filed with Canada Border Services Agency.
Canada requires a BSF186 Personal Effects Accounting Document or goods-to-follow declaration filed with Canada Border Services Agency. New immigrants and returning Canadians may import used personal effects duty-free. Terra provides guidance on completing the declaration and timing it with your port of entry arrival.
Requirements may vary based on nationality, visa type, and the nature of goods being shipped. Terra reviews documentation with destination agents and recommends clients verify current rules with official authorities.
Detailed packing inventory for customs declaration
Export documentation and bill of lading preparation
Destination customs broker coordination
Duty and tax guidance based on available information
Restricted and prohibited items advisory
Document verification before shipment departure
Prohibited and restricted items.
Most countries restrict or prohibit certain categories of items from import. The list below covers common restrictions. Specific rules for Canada may include additional items. Terra provides a destination-specific advisory during the planning stage.
Restrictions vary by destination and can change. Always verify with Terra and official authorities before shipping.
Moving to Canada as a returning citizen, new resident, or visa holder.
Whether you are a citizen of Canada returning home, a new permanent resident, or relocating on a work or retirement visa, Terra coordinates your international move with attention to the documentation requirements specific to your status.
Many countries offer duty-free import of household goods for returning nationals or new residents. Eligibility often depends on visa type, length of absence, proof of prior ownership of goods, and timing. Terra works with destination agents to identify applicable concessions and ensure proper documentation.
Import rules and duty structures are subject to change. Terra recommends verifying current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate before finalizing shipment plans.
Popular cities in Canada.
Common questions about moving to Canada.
How much does it cost to move to Canada?
Moving costs depend on volume, service level, freight method, access conditions, and destination requirements. A full-service 20ft container may range from approximately $5,000 to $12,000 or more. Terra provides customized estimates after reviewing your specific inventory and needs.
How long does shipping take to Canada?
Transit times vary by freight method. Ocean freight to Canada typically ranges from 3 to 10 weeks depending on route. Air freight can arrive in 1 to 2 weeks. Terra provides estimated timelines during the planning stage.
What can I ship to Canada?
Most used household goods and personal effects can be shipped internationally. Some items may be restricted or prohibited by Canada customs, including firearms, flammables, certain foods, and medications. Terra provides a destination-specific advisory.
Does Terra deliver to my door?
Yes. Terra coordinates door-to-door delivery including customs clearance and local transport to your new home in Canada. Access conditions at destination may affect final delivery logistics.
Do I need to be present for customs clearance in Canada?
This depends on the country. Some destinations require the shipper or an authorized representative to be present for customs clearance. Terra coordinates with destination agents to manage this process and advises on specific requirements.
Can I ship a vehicle?
Vehicle shipping is available to many destinations. Import requirements, duties, and emissions standards vary significantly by country. Terra can advise on vehicle shipping options to Canada during the quoting process.
Ready to move to Canada?
Tell us your origin, timeline, and home size. Terra provides a personalized planning range or formal quote for your move to Canada.
Request a Free Estimate