What matters most when moving a prized vehicle across a national border: cost, timing, or paperwork?
This guide answers that question clearly. It breaks down the end-to-end process for car shipping us to canada, using plain language and firm timelines. Readers learn typical costs, transit windows, and the paperwork milestones that affect delivery.
Expect realistic figures: average fees near $1,750, common transit of 10–14 days, and customs and taxes often adding about 20% to the bill. About 85% of moves use truck transport, and professional carriers handle logistics and border documentation.
Use this section to decide if professional shipping services or driving fits your situation. It highlights eligibility checks, RIV requirements, and protection options like open or enclosed carriers. The tone is direct and reassuring, aimed at vehicle owners and logistics coordinators in the united states.
Key Takeaways
- Average cost is about $1,750; ranges typically span $1,000–$2,500.
- Most moves use truck transport; expect 10–14 days transit time.
- Customs fees often add ~20% to total expenses.
- Professional carriers simplify logistics and RIV paperwork.
- Choose carrier type based on value, budget, and delivery window.
Understand the process: What car shipping US to Canada involves
A successful cross-border move rests on three pillars: booking, customs clearance, and timely transit. Start with a firm quote and a booked pickup window. Carriers then assign a driver and schedule door-to-door transit, typically 10–14 days depending on distance and weather.
When to choose transport over driving: pick professional service for long hauls, tight schedules, high-value vehicles, or harsh seasons. Driving adds wear, mileage, and more border hassle.
The operational steps are simple and repeatable. Book, prepare paperwork, complete pickup, and present documents at the border. The carrier manages compliance checks and customs declarations to avoid fines.
Modes and special cases: most moves use truck carriers on open or enclosed trailers. Air is rare and costly. Container use is usually reserved for broader international moves rather than overland transfers.
On delivery, owners finish the RIV intake and any required modifications before registration. For questions, contact info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972.
Check eligibility and import status before you ship
Start by verifying the vehicle’s import status; this decision shapes every next step. Visitors and temporary residents use different rules than Canadian residents who import permanently.
Is this a temporary stay or a permanent import?
Temporary stays typically avoid full import procedures. Permanent imports require full federal and provincial compliance. Confirm your status before booking transport.
Confirm RIV compatibility and recall clearance
Check the Registrar of Imported Vehicles compatibility list. The list can change and does not guarantee modifications are possible.
- Verify the vehicle appears on the registrar imported vehicles list.
- Obtain a recall clearance letter from the manufacturer or dealer.
- Plan required changes like daytime running lights or a km/h speedometer.
Keep factory condition and pass inspection
Vehicles modified from factory specs do not qualify. Conversions such as raised roofs, stretch bodies, lift kits, or trike conversions are excluded.
Note: A vehicle that fails the RIV inspection cannot remain in the country even if duties were paid.
If buying in the united states for import, evaluate modification costs before purchase. When uncertain, contact RIV or Transport Canada for written guidance. For questions, email info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972.
Documents and forms you need at the border
Border officers require a tight set of documents before a vehicle is allowed entry. Prepare these forms in advance to avoid hold-ups and extra costs.
Vehicle Import Form‑1 and RIV E‑form
The Vehicle Import Form‑1 must be presented at the border. Bring original ownership, identity, and declared valuation papers with Form‑1 for customs review.
The RIV Vehicle Import E‑form may be completed online but must be printed in full. Bring all four pages; officers will not accept an electronic-only submission.
Form‑3 and export clearance
Use Form‑3 only when declaring an eligible vehicle strictly for parts. Once declared for dismantling, that unit cannot be registered for road use later.
Confirm whether U.S. or Mexican export clearance is required at your departure crossing. Missing export paperwork can create last-minute holds at customs.
- Complete and print the four‑page RIV E‑form before travel.
- Present Form‑1 with ownership and valuation documents at the border.
- Keep recall clearance and insurance proof accessible on arrival.
- Track the RIV case number and schedule the inspection within 45 days.
- Organize all paperwork in one folder for the carrier and border agents.
Car shipping US to Canada costs: duties, taxes, fees, and transport pricing
Budgeting the full landed cost prevents surprises at the border. Plan for transport price, import duty (if any), GST, provincial tax, and the RIV fee when estimating final costs.
USMCA and import duty
Under USMCA, vehicles built in the united states, Mexico, or Canada usually pay no duty. Vehicles of non‑North American origin typically face a 6.1% import duty on declared value.
GST and provincial taxes
All imports pay 5% GST. Provinces add PST or HST. For example, Ontario adds an 8% PST; British Columbia’s PST can reach higher levels for some vehicle categories.
RIV fee and inspection
The RIV fee is about CAD 325 plus tax. Owners must complete the RIV inspection within 45 days. Also budget for possible modification costs such as daytime running lights or speedometer changes.
Transport pricing and key drivers
Typical transport pricing ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, averaging around $1,750. Distance, vehicle size or type, and method (open vs. enclosed) drive the final shipping cost.
- Budget tip: include transport, RIV fee, GST, PST/HST, and any import duty in your estimate.
- Open carriers are the most economical; enclosed carriers cost more but offer extra protection.
- Oversized and luxury vehicles often exceed standard rates due to special handling.
- Container or air options are rare for this route but available for special needs.
- Customs fees and taxes can total roughly 20% of the overall landed cost—plan a contingency.
For a precise quote or questions about duties and taxes, contact info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972.
Choose your shipping method and company
Selecting the correct carrier and transport type sets expectations for expense, speed, and risk. Pick the option that matches the vehicle’s value, timetable, and tolerance for exposure.
Open carrier vs. enclosed trailer vs. air freight: protection, speed, and budget
Open carriers offer the best value and broad availability for most vehicles. They are standard on cross-border truck lanes and keep costs low.
Enclosed trailers provide extra protection from weather and debris. Use them for luxury, classic car, or low‑clearance units when the budget allows.
Air freight is fastest but expensive. Reserve it for time-critical or rare international car shipping needs.
Oversized vehicles, SUVs, and classic car considerations
Large trucks and lifted SUVs often need special equipment and higher quotes. Confirm ground clearance, tire size, and exact dimensions before pickup.
For a classic car, request enclosed transport, detailed loading photos, and confirmed insurance limits.
Working with reputable international car shipping companies
Choose companies experienced with RIV rules, recall clearance, and customs paperwork. Professional teams reduce border delays and paperwork errors.
- Ask for: written liability coverage and a clear claims process.
- Request: tracking access and a door‑to‑door estimate.
- Confirm: equipment suitable for the vehicle’s type and size.
“Get documentation in writing — coverage limits, pickup windows, and any extra fees.”
If assistance is needed, contact info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972 for a detailed quote and carrier vetting.
Border crossing, delivery timelines, and RIV inspection
Border formalities set the pace for delivery and final registration. At pickup, present Form‑1, the printed RIV E‑form, proof of ownership, ID, and valuation papers. These documents speed customs clearance and reduce the risk of holds.
Customs clearance steps from the United States into Canada
Officers check documentation, origin, and value. Expect duties and taxes to be assessed unless the vehicle qualifies under USMCA. Keep recall clearance and insurance ready for review.
Typical transit times and movement methods
Most moves take about 10–14 days, depending on distance, routing, and weather. Around 85% of shipments travel by truck, which provides broad pickup and delivery coverage and predictable schedules.
RIV inspection window, checks, and outcomes
The RIV inspection must occur within 45 days of arrival. Inspectors verify compliance with Canadian standards, such as daytime running lights and a km/h speedometer display.
“Complete the RIV inspection promptly—failure can require export and additional costs.”
- Prepare Form‑1 and the printed RIV E‑form for border officers.
- Confirm USMCA eligibility or budget for duty on non‑qualifying imports.
- Schedule the RIV inspection within 45 days to avoid fees or delays.
| Item | Typical Time | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Transit | 10–14 days | Track with carrier; expect truck transport for most routes |
| Customs processing | Same day at crossing (if documents ready) | Present Form‑1, RIV E‑form, ID, and ownership |
| RIV inspection | Within 45 days | Verify lights, speedometer, and compliance items |
Questions or need help coordinating delivery and inspection? Contact info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972 for assistance and tracked timelines.
Conclusion
Smart budgeting and verified eligibility keep imports on schedule and within expected cost ranges.
Plan early. Confirm RIV compatibility, secure recall clearance, and pick the transport type that fits value and timing. Allow for transit costs near $1,750 on average and add GST, provincial tax, the RIV fee, and any duty for non‑North American origin.
Use a trusted carrier with border experience. Professional service reduces paperwork errors, speeds customs clearance, and helps meet the 45‑day RIV inspection window.
Need help? For transparent quotes and door‑to‑door options, contact info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972 for tailored support.