Planning to pack up and move north?
Moving to Canada is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. It’s an exciting adventure for sure. But it can also feel daunting if you aren’t sure where to begin.
That’s where this guide comes in.
Relocating from the US to Canada is a big step. You need the right plan. And you need the right moving services to back it up. In this post we’ll give you all of that.
What you’ll learn in this guide:
- Why are Americans Moving to Canada?
- How Much Does It Cost to Move to Canada?
- US to Canada Moving Services
- The Immigration Process
- Tips for a Successful Move to Canada
Why Are Americans Moving to Canada?
This is an important question we need to tackle head-on…
Why are so many Americans moving to Canada?
In 2023, around 10,600 Americans made the leap to Canada. These cross-border moves have been going on at a fairly consistent clip for several years.
Sources such as The Conversation report steadily rising emigration to Canada since 2016.
Reasons Americans are moving to Canada include:
- Health care
- Safety
- Education
- Quality of life
The cost of living is higher in the US than Canada. It’s an important factor. So is access to services such as healthcare. Many Canadians enjoy universal coverage. The US doesn’t.
Canada is the second largest country in the world by land area. It’s not surprising that many are making the move.
For Americans, Canada offers space, stability, and opportunity. However, a plan is needed. That all begins with a budget and an understanding of moving costs.
How Much Does it Cost to Move to Canada?
Before you can make a move, you need to know if it’s financially possible.
The cost of moving from the US to Canada depends on your location, the size of your move, and which services you require.
You’ll generally spend between $4,500 and $6,500 for professional US to Canada movers. Prices can vary based on location, season, and the extent of your move.
That said, small moves with fewer possessions can cost as little as $1,625. Large moves for bigger households can cost more than $10,000.
Factors that affect moving costs:
- Distance
- Volume of goods
- Required services
- Season of move
The shipping distance also affects price. Moving from New York to Toronto is less expensive than Los Angeles to Vancouver for example.
Decluttering is essential. The more goods you have, the higher the bill. Consider what you really need. Sell the rest.
A full-service move that includes packing and unpacking will add to the bill. Do it yourself where you can.
Summertime is also more expensive. Plan a winter move if you can to save 20% or more on your move.
It’s also important to consider the costs of moving your vehicle. Transporting a car from the US to Canada typically costs $1,900-$2,500 USD. Check out our guide to shipping cars to Canada for more information.
Your best option is to get multiple quotes from US to Canada moving services that have experience with international moves. This type of move involves customs clearance and paperwork that regular US movers are not licensed to do.
US to Canada Moving Services
You don’t want to hire the wrong company for an international move. US to Canada movers are different from domestic moving services.
Cross-border moves require additional customs clearance, paperwork, bonded warehouses, and compliance with Canadian import regulations.
Features of a good US to Canada mover:
- Experience with the US-Canada border
- Licensed for international moves
- Customs documentation assistance
- Insurance for goods in transit
Most household goods travel by ground transport from the US to Canada. You’re lucky to have a shared border with your neighbor. You won’t need ocean freight or air cargo.
Expect most moves to take 14 to 18 days door to door from the date your goods are picked up in the US.
They will be transported to a bonded warehouse at the border. You will meet them there, complete customs paperwork and your items will be released into Canada.
Tip: You usually don’t pay import duties or taxes for used household effects for personal use. They may apply to new goods or for commercial purposes. Confirm with your mover.
The Immigration Process
The biggest challenge of your move may be immigrating to Canada. It’s not as hard as you might think but you need to do your research early.
Canada has several pathways to immigration for Americans. The most popular route is the Express Entry system which aims to process applicants in six months.
Here are some common immigration options:
- Express Entry for skilled workers
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
- Work Permits with job offers
- Family Sponsorship
Expect immigration fees to cost several thousand dollars. For a family of four using Express Entry the average application fees are around 5,860 CAD or $4,350 USD.
That includes medical exams, language tests, biometrics, processing and so on.
You’ll also need to show proof of settlement funds in your bank account equal to about 26,500 CAD for a family of four. This isn’t paid to the government, but it must be in your account.
You may hire an immigration consultant or lawyer to assist. This adds cost but can help with complex cases.
Tips for a Smooth Move to Canada
Ready to make it happen? Follow these tips and you’ll give yourself the best chance of success.
Plan early. International moves require months of preparation. Start at least 3-6 months before your desired move date.
Declutter ruthlessly. Every item you don’t take saves money. Declutter room by room. Be realistic about what you truly need.
Get paperwork ready. Valid passports, Canadian immigrant visas, proof of permanent residence and a detailed inventory list of your goods are needed.
Open a Canadian bank account early. Easier to pay rent and receive wages once you arrive.
Arrange health insurance. Provincial healthcare has a waiting period. Purchase private health insurance to cover the gap.
Research your destination. Cost of living in Canada is higher in big cities. Montreal, Edmonton and smaller communities are more affordable.
Wrapping it all Up
Moving from the US to Canada is no small task. But many thousands of Americans do it every year.
Quick recap:
- Understand costs upfront
- Hire experienced US to Canada movers
- Plan immigration steps early
- Save money by decluttering
Planning and research are your best friends. Partner with experienced moving services and immigration experts to make it as easy as possible. They handle the hard parts.
You just need to show up and start your exciting new life in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move from the US to Canada?
Expect to spend between $4,500 to $6,500 for professional US to Canada movers. Final costs may reach $15,000 to $25,000 for families when all expenses are included.
How long does it take to move from the US to Canada?
The physical move takes 14 to 18 days from pickup to delivery. The immigration application process through Express Entry takes six months.
Can I bring my car to Canada?
Yes. You’ll need proper documentation to clear Canadian customs. Shipping your vehicle costs about $1,900 to $2,500.
