Moving your belongings to Canada: how to plan, pack and ship cost effectively

All international relocations require some kind of soul searching when it comes to packing, storing and selling. It’s one of the more emotional sides to relocation as it makes the move so much more real when you start packing the boxes.

Deciding what to take or store, understanding shipping costs and customs paperwork, the process can quickly become overwhelming if you don’t start early.

Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement or a new adventure, planning how to move your belongings can save you significant money and stress once you arrive.

This guide explains how to evaluate what you really need, how to choose the best shipping option and includes a practical checklist to help you plan each step on your move to Canada.

Start with your destination in mind

Before making any decisions, think about where and how you’ll live in Canada.

• Accommodation type: Will you move into long-term housing straight away or rent short-term while you find your feet?
• Space: Homes in smaller towns tend to have more storage than city apartments in Toronto or Vancouver.
• Climate: Canada’s winters are severe in most provinces, but if you’re arriving in summer, you may not need heavy coats or snow gear immediately.
• Furnishings: Many rentals come partially or fully furnished. Research what’s included before you plan to ship bulky furniture.

Tip: Check average property sizes and local rental listings in your destination area. It helps set a realistic expectation for what you can bring.

Decide what to take, store, sell or donate

Most people underestimate how much it costs to ship everything they own across the world. A clear plan can help you prioritise what truly matters.

Take

Bring items that are essential, valuable, irreplaceable and consider things that will help you feel at home from day one.

• Personal documents and records
• Laptops, phones, and key electronics
• Family heirlooms and sentimental items
• A few pieces of furniture or decor that define your space

Store

If you have items you value but don’t need immediately, consider short- or long-term storage in your home country.

• Art and antiques
• Collectibles and keepsakes
• Large or delicate furniture
• Items with strong sentimental value

Sell

Selling before you move reduces both cost and clutter.

• Old furniture or appliances
• Vehicles you won’t use in Canada
• Bulky items cheaper to replace than ship

Donate or recycle

Let go of things that no longer serve you but could benefit others.

• Clothing, books, and household goods
• Children’s toys or sports equipment
• Items you wouldn’t pay to move

Tip: Start this process at least three months before you move. International shippers often need your confirmed inventory weeks ahead of departure.

Compare international shipping options

How you move your belongings will depend on your volume, urgency, and budget.

Sea freight (container shipping)

• Best for larger moves, usually more than one or two rooms’ worth of items.
• Takes around 4–8 weeks, depending on distance and customs processing.
• Available as Full Container Load (FCL) or shared Groupage/Part Load.
• Cost-effective, though slower than air freight.

Air freight

• Suitable for smaller shipments or high-value items you need quickly.
• Usually 7–14 days door-to-door, but significantly more expensive.

Excess baggage and courier services

• Ideal if you’re taking just a few boxes or suitcases.
• Typically door-to-door and cheaper than full container shipping.

When comparing quotes, check

• Whether packing materials and labour are included
• If customs clearance and delivery to your home are covered
• What level of insurance is provided
• Whether storage on arrival is available if your home isn’t ready

Canadian customs and import rules

New residents can usually bring in personal and household goods duty-free, provided they’ve owned and used them for at least six months before moving.

You’ll need to complete Form BSF186 (Personal Effects Accounting Document) when entering Canada. If your shipment arrives later, declare your goods upon arrival and provide copies of your shipping documents to customs.

Restricted items include:

• Firearms or weapons (require prior approval)
• Alcohol and tobacco (subject to duty)
• Plants, seeds or certain foods
• Vehicles not meeting Canadian standards

Check the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website before shipping to confirm the latest restrictions and import rules: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html

Insure and document everything

Long-distance moves can expose your belongings to risk through handling, transit or customs inspections. Protect your items properly.

• Take out marine or transit insurance based on replacement value.
• Create a detailed inventory of everything being shipped, ideally with photos.
• Keep digital copies of receipts, serial numbers, and shipping paperwork.
• Ask your relocation company to provide a packing list and condition report.

After your shipment arrives

Once your goods clear customs, your mover will arrange delivery to your new address. Before signing completion paperwork:

• Inspect all items for damage.
• Report issues immediately as waiting even a few days can invalidate insurance claims.
• If your home isn’t ready, ask about storage-in-transit (SIT) options so your belongings can stay in a bonded warehouse temporarily.