Whether relocating for a new job, returning home, or simply wanting to drive your car in a different country, figuring out cross border car shipping Canada to USA can be tricky. So let us simplify vehicle shipping across Canada to US for you with this short, sweet, and to-the-point guide.
Documents Required to Ship a Car from Canada & USA
Temporary Import – Less Than 1 Year Stay
- Completed CBP Form 3299 (Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles). This form declares the vehicle is for temporary use.
- Passport or driver’s license and birth certificate copies to prove your identity.
- A vehicle registration/ownership copy is required to prove lawful ownership.
- This is a letter of authorization allowing the Canada To US Auto Transport company to transport the vehicle across the border through Crossborder Car Shipping.
- Proof of temporary stay in the USA (e.g., travel itinerary, student/work visa, etc.) to show the intent to stay short-term.
Permanent Import – Over 1 Year Stay
- Completed HS-7 Declaration Form (to certify compliance with DOT safety standards like lights, brakes, and emissions systems meet requirements).
- Completed EPA Form 3520-1 (to certify compliance with EPA emission standards to protect the environment).
- Completed CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary) to declare the import and pay applicable import duties, if any apply.
- Bill of Sale or Certificate of Origin/Manufacturer’s Statement as proof of purchase/ownership.
- The manufacturer‘s letter states that the vehicle meets all applicable FMVSS if it is only labeled for Canadian standards CMVSS to ensure it is roadworthy in the USA.
- Proof of payment of GST (Goods and Services Tax) and PST (Provincial Sales Tax), if applicable for the province of purchase.
Additional Notes
- Due to OFFROAD/ANTIQUE vehicle rules, many vehicles must be less than 25 model years old to be imported permanently without significant modifications/compliance costs.
- Some states, like California, have stricter emission inspections.
5 Steps For Shipping a Car from Canada to US
- The best option to ship a car to Canada & USA is to work with a reputable auto mover company specializing in vehicle shipping across US and Canada. Reach out to several international shipping companies to compare quotes.
- Make sure your car is clean inside and out and fully fueled. Check the oil, coolant, brake, and transmission fluid levels. Repair any issues so it’s road-ready for the journey.
- Provide your pickup and delivery dates and locations. Schedule sufficient time, as cross-country car shipping can take 1-3 weeks, depending on the distance. Opt for enclosed auto carriers for protection from weather elements.
- Pack your license plates, insurance, and registration documents in your car. Also, pack any personal items you want delivered with the vehicle to avoid loss or damage during transit.
- Complete the required customs documents for crossborder shipping. The auto movers will guide you on the paperwork required to ship a vehicle from Canada to the US including NAFTA forms, bond processing etc.
Average Cost of Car Shipping From Canada to US
The average cost for crossborder shipping a car from Canada to the US ranges from $800-1800 depending on the type and size of the vehicle.
| Type of Vehicle | Average Cost |
| Small Car | $800 – $1300 |
| SUV/Truck | $1000 – $1800 |
Hire The Local Auto Movers in Canada for International Auto Shipping to US
- Read reviews and ensure the US Canada auto transport company has experience in car shipping cross the border.
- Confirm adequate liability and cargo insurance coverage in case of accidents or damage during transit.
- Look for enclosed auto carriers for protection from weather and well-maintained fleet for safe car shipping cross Country.
- Choose auto movers who are responsive, easy to reach, and guide you through the entire process.
- Get quotes from 3-4 auto movers to compare rates and value-added services inclusions.
Working with reputed and experienced auto movers that specialize in cross country car shipping ensures a seamless international shipping experience across the border.
