Shipping and Removals in Canada

If you’re moving to Canada, there’s a lot to consider when shipping your possessions. Generally, the rule of thumb is that if you can replace it in Canada, it’s best to leave it behind.

Even though this massive country's east and west coasts are home to large, efficient ports, shipping is expensive. In most cases, you can purchase new goods once you arrive in Canada for less than you’d pay to ship them over. Plus, replacing items locally can help you avoid the headaches of customs and the risks of potential damage during transit.

There are also plenty of furnished accommodation options available in most Canadian cities. If you’re settling in Calgary or other inland destinations, shipping will be especially costly, as the process will require a combination of different delivery methods, often involving both road and rail transport.

Finding and Renting Accommodation in Canada

Shipping household goods to Canada

If you bring your household goods to Canada, you can streamline the process by strategically dividing your belongings. The most essential items should be brought over by air freight, which is faster but more expensive, while the rest can be shipped by sea. Air freight typically takes 2 to 8 days, while sea shipping can take anywhere from 20 to 40 days.

It’s also important to spend some time researching shipping companies and getting quotes from reputable providers before committing to an agreement. Some of the most reliable companies for international moves to Canada include DHL, FedEx, UPS, Maersk, and Kuehne + Nagel.

Get shipping insurance, and ideally, purchase it from an independent insurance provider rather than the shipping company. This helps ensure that claims are handled objectively, reducing the risk of conflicts of interest.

Keep in mind that all shipments to Canada are subject to customs duties and taxes, which can vary depending on the type and value of your goods. Make sure you understand these tariffs in advance to avoid any surprises. Brokerage fees for customs clearance can also add to your costs, depending on the declared value and the shipping carrier you use.

Furniture

When it comes to furniture, the cost of furnishing a new home in Canada can often be more economical than shipping furniture from abroad, especially for bulky items like large sofas or antique pieces. Moreover, if you’re shipping wooden items, be aware that Canada may require fumigation to prevent pests.

Cost of shipping to Canada

The cost of shipping goods to Canada is influenced by several factors: the distance between your current location and your destination, the weight and dimensions of your shipment, and your chosen shipping method.

If you’re planning to use sea freight, you can opt for Less than Container Load (LCL) if you don’t have enough goods to fill an entire container, or Full Container Load (FCL) if you do.

Another often-overlooked expense is storage fees. Delays in customs clearance can lead to additional storage charges if your goods are held at ports or warehouses longer than expected. To minimise this, ensure that all your documentation is in order before your goods set sail.

Shipping pets to Canada

Shipping your pets to Canada requires proof of rabies vaccination and, in some cases, a veterinary certificate. Microchips are only necessary for animals brought into the country for commercial purposes, but we still recommend microchipping your pets as a precaution.

Certain exotic pets may face restrictions or require special permits, so it’s a good idea to check Canadian regulations well before your move.

Shipping pets can also involve hidden costs, such as quarantine fees, airline pet travel charges, and import permits for certain animals. Make sure to factor in these potential expenses when planning your move, and contact a specialist pet relocation service if you’re unsure about the requirements for your furry friends.