Moving to Canada offers the opportunity to live in one of the world’s most welcoming, safe, and diverse countries. Whether relocating for work, study, or lifestyle, Canada provides vibrant cities, stunning natural landscapes, and a high standard of living.
At A1 Relocations, we make your move to Canada seamless, from professional packing and international shipping to customs clearance and final delivery to your new home.
🌍 Why Move to Canada?
Canada is renowned for its multicultural society, high quality of life, and world-class education and healthcare systems. Cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa provide diverse employment opportunities, cultural experiences, and modern infrastructure.
Key highlights:
- Safe and family-friendly communities
- English- and French-speaking environments
- Access to vast natural landscapes, national parks, and recreational activities
- Strong economy with opportunities for skilled professionals
- Excellent healthcare and education systems
Whether you prefer the cosmopolitan life of Toronto or the serene landscapes of Quebec, Canada offers a high-quality lifestyle for every newcomer.
💰 Cost of Living in Canada
Costs vary by city, with Toronto and Vancouver being the most expensive, while smaller cities like Calgary, Ottawa, or Halifax offer more affordable options.
| Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Apartment (1-bedroom, city center) | 1,200–2,200 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | 150–250 |
| Groceries & dining out | 400–700 |
| Public transport | 100–150 |
| Private healthcare visit | 60–120 |
Employer relocation packages or housing allowances often help make your transition smoother.
🏡 Housing and Popular Cities
Canada offers a wide range of housing options, from modern city apartments to spacious suburban homes.
Popular cities for expatriates:
- Toronto – Canada’s largest city with financial and business opportunities
- Vancouver – Coastal lifestyle with mountains and beaches
- Montreal – French-speaking hub of culture and education
- Ottawa – Capital city with government and tech jobs
- Calgary – Affordable, family-oriented, and growing economy
- Quebec City – Historic charm and cultural richness
Our A1 Relocations team ensures your belongings are delivered safely and set up at your new residence.
📦 Import of used household goods and personal effects & Customs Regulations for Canada
Importing used household goods and personal effects into Canada requires careful documentation. A1 Relocations ensures your shipment complies with all Canadian Customs regulations for a smooth clearance.
📄 Documents Required
- Copy of passport
- Proof of residency abroad for at least 12 months (e.g., bank statements, utilities, rent receipts, tax statements) — for returning Canadians
- Detailed inventory / packing list in English or French
- Receipts for new items
- Personal Effects Accounting Document (BSF186, formerly B4)
- Original Bill of Lading (OBL) / Air Waybill (AWB) – Provided by A1 Relocations
- Liquor permit, if applicable
- Immigration papers, if applicable
- Work permit / student visa, if applicable
- Proof of residence in Canada (deed, lease, or sales agreement) — seasonal residents
- Copy of death certificate (inheritance items)
- Copy of will or executor’s letter (inheritance items)
- Obligation for privilege from the Canadian Ministry of External Affairs (diplomats)
ℹ️ Important Customs Information
- Presence Requirement: The owner of the goods must be present at Customs, or a licensed Customs broker can handle clearance.
- Duty-Free Eligibility for Returning Canadians:
- Goods must have been owned and used for at least 6 months prior to import
- Owner must have lived abroad for at least 12 months
- If living abroad >5 years, the 6-month ownership rule is waived
- Goods must not be intended for resale or disposed of within 12 months
- Immigrants, Work / Student Visa Holders:
- Goods must be owned and used prior to import
- Cannot include goods for resale or disposal within 12 months
Duty & Tax Notes
- Any single household item or personal effect acquired after March 31, 1977, and valued over CAD 10,000 is subject to duty and taxes on the excess value.
- Seasonal residents may import furniture and personal effects duty-free under conditions:
- For personal use only, not commercial
- Owned and used prior to arrival
- Proof of property ownership or lease required
Only one shipment allowed per household
- Diplomats are eligible for duty- and tax-free import.
🪵 ISPM-15 Compliance (Wood Packaging Material)
Canada follows ISPM-15 regulations for wood packaging materials. All wooden crates, pallets, or timber must be:
- Heat-treated or fumigated with methyl bromide
- Marked with the internationally recognized IPPC mark, or accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate specifying treatment
Non-compliant wood may be rejected or destroyed at the owner’s expense.
🧳 Moving to Canada: What to Expect
Transit times:
- Sea freight: 3–6 weeks from Asia
- Air freight: 5–10 days
Customs clearance:
- Typically 1–2 weeks depending on documentation and inspections
Services provided by A1 Relocations:
- Door-to-door moving
- Professional packing and unpacking
- Short- and long-term storage
- Customs clearance and documentation support
- Final delivery and setup at destination
🍁 Life in Canada
Canada offers a unique mix of natural beauty, urban opportunities, and multicultural communities. Enjoy outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, or canoeing, while living in safe, clean cities with excellent healthcare and education. English and French are widely spoken, making integration straightforward for newcomers.
✈️ Move to Canada with Confidence
A1 Relocations ensures your relocation is handled professionally, from packing at origin to customs clearance and final delivery in Canada. Whether moving for work, study, or lifestyle, our team ensures a stress-free experience so you can settle into your new Canadian life confidently.
📞 Ready to relocate to Canada?
Contact A1 Relocations today for expert guidance and a tailored moving plan.
A1 Relocations – Making your move to Canada seamless.
