Curious whether driving or hiring a pro saves time and money on a cross-border move?
The guide opens with clear transport price ranges for open, enclosed, and driveaway options. It breaks down typical costs for a 1,400-mile run and compares those numbers with a driving scenario. Readers see realistic figures for carriers, fuel, lodging, and out-of-pocket travel expenses.
Border fees and import steps appear next. The text summarizes RIV charges, inspections, GST/HST/PST implications, and when a duty may apply. It also flags required vehicle modifications and inspection timelines.
The tone is direct and reassuring. Owners and logistics coordinators get a practical roadmap for planning, quoting, and booking reliable vehicle transport. For a tailored estimate, contact info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972.
Key Takeaways
- Expect open carrier ranges, enclosed premiums, and driveaway variances based on distance and vehicle type.
- Import fees, RIV charges, and provincial taxes often add several hundred to thousands of dollars.
- A 1,400-mile DIY trip has clear out-of-pocket costs and hidden wear risks.
- Verify compliance, recalls, and required conversions before scheduling transport.
- Accurate quotes need vehicle details, dates, terminals, and service level choices.
Understanding the real cost to ship a car from the US to Canada today
Expect major budget swings driven by mileage, vehicle dimensions, seasonal demand, and service tier.
Transport pricing typically falls into clear ranges: open carriers about $800–$1,000, enclosed service $1,200–$1,400, and driveaway roughly $1,000–$1,800. These base figures cover pickup, line-haul, and terminal handling.
Total end-to-end imports usually run $3,500–$7,000. That includes RIV ($341.25 with GST), inspections ($35–$150+), provincial taxes, possible 6.1% duty for non‑USMCA units, and fixed add-ons like the $100 A/C tax.
- Distance pushes carriers’ time and fuel burn, raising quotes on longer usa canada routes.
- Larger vehicles occupy more trailer space and often cost more than compacts.
- Peak seasons tighten capacity; flexible dates often lower the cost and transit time.
| Service | Typical Range | Common Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Open carrier | $800–$1,000 | Pickup, line-haul, terminal handling |
| Enclosed truck | $1,200–$1,400 | Weather protection, higher security |
| Driveaway | $1,000–$1,800 | Single-driver delivery, mileage wear |
How to calculate total cost step by step
Identify the transport method first; that single decision shifts most line items in the final estimate.
Estimate transport price: Open carriers provide the lowest baseline. Enclosed trailers add protection and premium. Driveaway often costs more but reduces handling time. Use the provided ranges ($800–$1,800) and match the rate to vehicle size and distance.
Add taxes, duties, and fixed border fees
Apply 5% GST on the declared vehicle value, then add provincial PST/HST as required. Check whether the 6.1% import duty applies for non‑USMCA units.
Include fixed charges such as the $100 A/C tax and potential gas‑guzzler levies when applicable.
Account for RIV, inspections, registration
RIV is generally $341.25 (fee plus GST). Add provincial inspection costs and registration fees. Examples: Ontario $60–$150, New Brunswick $35–$45, Alberta ~ $100, and Ontario registration near $120.
Standards modifications and insurance
Budget for required conversions: DRL $200–$300, metric speedometer $250–$500. Confirm carrier cargo limits. Purchase GAP or supplemental coverage if vehicle value exceeds carrier limits.
- Use a line‑item worksheet: transport, taxes/duties, RIV, inspections, registration, modifications, insurance.
- Compare total vs. savings when sourcing in the usa canada market and factor distance, type, and vehicle value.
- Confirm documentation early to avoid storage or re‑dispatch fees.
| Item | Typical Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Open carrier | $800–$1,000 | Economical baseline, higher exposure |
| Enclosed transport | $1,200–$1,400 | Weather and security protection |
| Driveaway | $1,000–$1,800 | Faster delivery, additional mileage wear |
| RIV fee | $341.25 | Standard program charge with GST |
| Modifications (DRL, speedo) | $200–$500 | Required for some US‑spec vehicles |
Need a tailored estimate? Email info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972 for a line‑by‑line quote and booking guidance.
Taxes, duties, and border fees you should expect
Taxes and border levies can change the final bill more than the transport fare. Importers should plan taxes and duties alongside carrier quotes. Accurate declarations reduce reassessment risk and delays.
GST, PST/HST rates and the 6.1% duty
Apply GST at 5% on the declared value at import. Add provincial PST, HST, or QST where the vehicle will be registered. Examples: BC 7% PST, SK 6%, MB 7% RST, QC 9.975% QST, ON effective 8% within HST.
Non‑USMCA units may incur the 6.1% import duty on top of other taxes.
Fixed add‑ons: A/C excise and gas‑guzzler tiers
The $100 excise applies when the vehicle has air conditioning. Gas‑guzzler tax tiers add $1,000–$4,000 based on L/100km. Performance models and heavy trucks often hit higher tiers.
Weight, luxury thresholds and calculation
Luxury tax affects vehicles over $100,000 CAD. Authorities use the lower of two methods: roughly 10% of the total or 20% of the amount above $100,000. Model total taxes, duties, and fixed fees with transport cost to avoid surprises.
- Tip: Keep all invoices and inspection reports to speed remittance and clearance.
- Validate origin and tariff classification early for duty relief.
RIV, inspections, and registration: what it costs and why it matters
Confirm RIV eligibility first, since that decision sets the regulatory path for imported vehicles. The Registrar of Imported Vehicles program applies to most US-spec units under 15 years old and charges a standard $325 fee plus 5% GST, totaling $341.25.
Vehicles older than 15 years from the month of manufacture are exempt from RIV and many federal standards. That exemption often reduces both the cost and length of the compliance process.
Provincial safety inspections and sample costs
Provincial checks confirm roadworthiness and provincial compliance. Typical examples:
| Province | Inspection Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Safety Standards Certificate | $60–$150 |
| New Brunswick | Motor Vehicle Inspection | $35–$45 |
| Alberta | Insurance inspection | ~$100 |
Plate, licensing, and renewal fees by province
Registration and plate costs vary by jurisdiction. Expect one-time registration charges and annual renewal fees. Ontario sample costs run near $120 for initial registration plus possible service fees.
- Checklist: pay RIV, schedule inspection, fix defects, register and plate the vehicle.
- Keep manufacture date proof to confirm the 15-year exemption.
- Align RIV timing with carrier delivery to avoid storage or rebooking fees.
Need province-specific guidance? Contact our company at info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972 for tailored support through the process.
Service & transport costs: methods, timelines, and insurance
Choosing the right option affects price, transit time, and required paperwork.
Open vs. enclosed vs. driveaway: cost ranges and transit times
Open carriers offer the lowest cost and typical transit of 7–10 days for continental usa canada routes. Prices generally sit near $800–$1,000 for standard sedans.
Enclosed trailers add protection and arrive faster, roughly 5–7 days. Expect $1,200–$1,400 for higher‑value vehicles and finishes.
Driveaway service lowers handling time to about 3–5 days but adds mileage and wear. Rates range $1,000–$1,800 depending on distance and vehicle condition.
Transit insurance basics and when to add GAP coverage
Basic carrier cargo insurance is standard. Verify limits and obtain written coverage details before pickup.
If the vehicle’s market value exceeds the carrier cap, consider GAP coverage or supplemental liability. This step protects owners of premium autos and collector vehicles.
Canadian standards modifications: DRL and metric speedometer
Some imports require daytime running lights and metric speedometer conversion. Typical costs run $200–$300 for DRL and $250–$500 for speedometer updates.
Most modern vehicles already comply. Older models often need both upgrades before provincial registration.
Worked example: typical sedan service-cost scenario
Representative sedan math: open transport ~$900 + DRL $250 + metric speedo $250 equals about $1,400 in service costs.
Larger trucks or oversized units will raise quotes because of weight and trailer space. Compact cars usually gain the best placement and lower per-unit cost.
| Service | Range | Transit days |
|---|---|---|
| Open carrier | $800–$1,000 | 7–10 |
| Enclosed trailer | $1,200–$1,400 | 5–7 |
| Driveaway | $1,000–$1,800 | 3–5 |
- Companies set pickup windows based on distance and season; flexibility often lowers the cost.
- Confirm operability, clearance, and aftermarket parts—these affect whether enclosed service is required.
- Request an insurance certificate and written timeline for final confirmation.
how much to ship a car from us to canada vs. driving it yourself
When weighing a self-drive against professional transport, tally fuel, lodging, meals, and wear for a full picture.
The straight cash outlay for a 1,400-mile drive is about $797. That includes $253 in fuel, $360 for four nights of lodging, and $184 for food. Add routine maintenance and unexpected repairs after the trip.
Depreciation and wear add roughly $0.38 per mile, or about $532 for 1,400 miles. That cost narrows the gap with professional shipping.
Side-by-side: time, cost, and convenience
| Option | Cash cost | Typical days |
|---|---|---|
| Self-drive | $797 + wear (~$532) | 4–5 days |
| Open carrier transport | $800–$1,200 | 6–8 days |
Driving yourself saves handling fees but adds mileage and fatigue risk. Carriers plan routes, carry cargo insurance, and remove added miles from the odometer.
- Self-drive: lower immediate cash outlay, higher wear and breakdown exposure.
- Shipping: slightly higher sticker price often preserves resale value and reduces roadside risk.
- Terminal-to-terminal delivery can cut transport cost if people can drop off and pick up.
Recommendation: For valuable or low-mileage cars, shipping usually offers better long-term value. Contact the company at info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972 for a tailored quote and timing options.
Vehicle eligibility and restrictions before you book
Confirming compliance and recall clearance prevents costly delays at the border.
CMVSS compliance is the first checkpoint. Non‑CMVSS certified vehicles face rejection at import. Owners must confirm VIN market specification and resolve open recalls before scheduling transport.
Modified vehicles need special attention. Raised roofs, stretched frames, extreme lift kits, and conversions often trigger extra scrutiny. Without proper builder certifications, the registrar imported vehicles program can deny entry.
Practical steps and risks
- Check Transport Canada’s admissibility list before booking.
- Provide clear photos, VIN, type, weight, and modification details during quoting.
- Obtain manufacturer proof for completed recalls to speed RIV clearance and registration.
- Understand that RIV rejections have no appeal; rejected units may require immediate export at owner expense.
| Issue | Typical consequence | Owner action |
|---|---|---|
| Non‑CMVSS vehicle | Border denial / return shipping | Verify VIN, obtain compliance letters |
| Open recalls | RIV hold or refusal | Complete recall service; secure proof |
| Major modifications | Additional inspection; possible denial | Gather builder certifications; notify carrier |
Tip: Request a short pre‑booking compliance review from companies handling cross‑border transport. This step reduces storage, rebooking, and return costs and keeps the process on schedule.
Get a reliable quote and next steps to book your vehicle transport
Request a firm estimate by sharing exact pickup and delivery addresses, preferred dates, and any flexibility window.
What information carriers need for accurate pricing
Provide year, make, model, dimensions, and whether the vehicle is operable. Note modifications so the carrier assigns the right trailer and avoids re‑quotes.
Specify open or enclosed service and choose door‑to‑door or terminal‑to‑terminal. Terminals often lower fees when customers handle local legs.
When to book, discount opportunities, and terminal savings
Book early for peak seasons; fall often offers off‑peak discounts. Companies may offer military, senior, and multi‑vehicle rates.
“Accurate documents and flexible dates often reduce total fees and speed dispatch.”
Some crossings require title submission about 80 hours ahead. The company coordinates timelines and paperwork to prevent border delays.
| Factor | Impact | Owner action |
|---|---|---|
| Distance & dates | Primary rate driver | Provide exact addresses and flexibility |
| Vehicle condition | Trailer type & handling | Disclose operability and mods |
| Service level | Price vs. protection | Choose open or enclosed; consider terminal pickup |
- Request a written quote with total charges, surcharges, and cancellation terms.
- For high‑value autos, include cargo limits and optional GAP in the same package.
Ready to start? Email info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972 for a same‑day estimate and booking slot.
Conclusion
Readers get a concise checklist that balances price, paperwork, and protection before booking.
Break the total cost into transport, taxes, RIV/inspections, registration, and required modifications. Model duties and fixed border fees early. A brief compliance check for CMVSS, recalls, and major mods prevents delays and returns.
For reliable service and an accurate quote, contact info@bestcarshippinginc.com or call (307) 288-5972. The company coordinates paperwork, timelines, and secure handling so vehicles arrive on schedule and retain value.