13 Tips For Finding the Right Car Shipping Companies in Canada
As of December 2022, there were 136,664 trucking businesses, including those that move vehicles in Canada. Out of so many choices, choosing the right car shipping companies Canada can be challenging. Therefore, this blog post is put together to help you find the right shipper in Canada:
Table of Contents
Should You Hire the Cheapest Car Shipping Companies in Canada?
Before discussing how to find the right car shipping companies in Canada, let’s address the elephant in the room: Should you choose the cheapest option? Well, you can if you’re moving a really old vehicle that has already been involved in a few crashes and has no resale value.
That’s because cheap car shippers hire inexperienced carriers and neglect safety standards to cut corners. These things, in turn, lead to crashes. Here’s a report on transport truck accidents from 2006 to 2021. There are thousands of crashes every year, including thousands of injuries.
Granted, this report is not exclusive to car transport trucks, but it’s still for transportation trucks in Canada, so auto carriers are included. As per the data:
- In 2006, 9,828 transport trucks collided, resulting in 3,682 injuries. This highlights the potential risk of accidents when hiring less experienced companies.
- Although the number of trucks involved in accidents decreased to 5,698 in 2021, the injury count remained significant at 1,927, emphasizing that even fewer crashes can still cause substantial damages.
The data from 2006 to 2021 shows consistently high injury numbers, reinforcing the need to choose companies with a good track record for safe transport and professionalism to avoid vehicle damage and financial losses.
7 Crucial Considerations When Hiring Companies for Car Transport Canada (Cross-Country):
Choosing the right car shipping companies in Canada can make or break your auto transport experience. Here’s what to keep in mind.
1. Insurance Coverage, Liability, and Licensing
Proper insurance is vital when shipping your car across Canada. Look for cargo insurance of at least $100k if using open carrier. It covers the vehicles being shipped. Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI). This document outlines coverage limits for various scenarios.
Licensing is equally important. Verify that the car shipping company has a valid National Safety Code (NSC) certification. Also, depending on the province they’re operating in, a Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC) or equivalent Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR) is required. Transport Canada requires these to ensure safety standards are met.
Their NSC number should be active and visible. Licensed shipping companies undergo regular inspections. This reduces risks during auto transport.
| Document | Purpose |
| Certificate of Insurance (COI) | Outlines insurance coverage limits |
| National Safety Code (NSC) certification | Ensures adherence to safety standards |
| SFC or CVOR, depending on the province | Carrier meets minimum safety standards |
2. Transport Methods Available
Car shipping companies typically offer two main methods for auto transport in Canada:
- Open transport: Cars are exposed on multi-car carriers. It’s cheaper but leaves vehicles open to the elements.
- Enclosed transport provides protection from weather and debris. It is often used for luxury or classic cars and costs 30-40% more.
Some shipping companies offer specialized services for unique vehicles. Always choose the best method for your car’s needs and budget.
3. Company Reputation and Reviews
Research is key when selecting car shipping companies. Use multiple review platforms, such as Google and BBB profiles, and check industry-specific forums, such as Transport Reviews and BirdEye to gauge their reputation. Good companies maintain at least a 4-star rating with minimal open complaints in BBB.
Request references from past clients who’ve used their services for cross-country shipping. Pay attention to experiences with similar vehicle types. A reputable car transport company will gladly provide this information. Remember, thorough research can save you headaches down the road.
| Review Source | What to Look For |
| Google Reviews | Overall rating and recent customer experiences |
| Better Business Bureau (BBB) | Accreditation status and complaint history |
| BirdEye | Collective feedback and ratings from around the internet |
4. Delivery Time and Flexibility
Delivery times when shipping your car across Canada can vary. Factors like distance, route popularity, and seasonal demand play a role. Typically, expect delivery windows of 5 to 14 days. Some auto transport companies offer expedited shipping for an extra fee, which prioritizes your car over others in transit.
Check if the shipping company provides door-to-door delivery. This adds convenience but may face limits in cities due to truck size restrictions. Terminal-to-terminal shipping might save you money. However, you’ll need to drop off and pick up your car at set locations.
| Delivery Option | Pros | Cons |
| Door-to-Door | Convenient, less hassle | It may be restricted to urban areas |
| Terminal-to-Terminal | Often cheaper | Requires drop-off and pick-up |
| Expedited Shipping | Faster delivery | Higher cost |
5. Price Transparency and Quotes
When getting quotes for car shipping, ask for a detailed breakdown. This should include:
- Base cost
- Fuel surcharges
- Expedited shipping fees
- Rural area delivery charges
- Oversized vehicle fees
Be cautious of unusually low quotes. They might exclude key services or hint at poor quality. Use online calculators or get quotes from at least three car transport companies. This ensures accurate comparisons. Confirm if taxes are included in the quote. Check for any hidden fees and clauses that could pop up after shipping.
Remember, transparency is crucial in auto transport. A reputable car shipping company will provide clear, detailed quotes. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about any charges you don’t understand. This helps avoid surprises and ensures a smooth shipping experience across Canada.
6. Tracking Services and Customer Support
Top-notch car shipping companies offer transit status updates for your peace of mind. They may offer you the carrier’s phone number, allowing you to monitor your car’s location in real-time. Some may send updates via email or text instead.
Good customer service is crucial in auto transport. Look for companies with 24/7 support. This is especially important for cross-Canada shipping. Check how they handle issues like weather delays or road closures. Fast communication can make a big difference in your shipping experience.
| Feature | Benefit |
| 24/7 Customer Support | Assistance is available across different time zones |
| Proactive Communication | Updates on delays or issues during shipping |
When choosing car transport Canada services, consider these tracking options:
- Email updates
- SMS notifications
- Phone support for immediate queries
Remember, reliable shipping companies prioritize keeping you informed. They understand the stress of shipping your car across Canada, and good communication can ease your worries during the auto transport process.
7. Experience with Cross-Province Transport
Shipping a car across Canada presents unique challenges. Look for auto transport companies with cross-province experience. They should know how to navigate remote areas and handle unpredictable weather. Experienced shipping companies also understand varying provincial regulations.
Companies familiar with cross-country car transport will know local road rules, such as weight limits on bridges and regional safety requirements. This knowledge ensures smoother car shipping across Canada.
| Challenge | How Experienced Companies Handle It |
| Remote Areas | Familiar with alternative routes and local resources |
| Weather Conditions | Prepared with contingency plans and appropriate equipment |
| Provincial Regulations | Up-to-date on varying rules across provinces |
Established relationships with provincial authorities are a plus. These connections help car shipping companies handle permits efficiently, reducing delays in auto transport. Ask potential shipping companies about their experience with cross-province car transport.
When choosing a company for car transport in Canada, consider the following:
- Years of experience in cross-country shipping
- Knowledge of provincial regulations
- Familiarity with remote area transport
- Ability to handle weather-related challenges
Remember, experienced auto transport Canada companies offer more than just shipping. They provide peace of mind for your cross-country car transport needs.
5 Additional Characteristics When Hiring Car Shipping Companies in Canada to USA Moves:
Shipping your car from Canada to the USA? Here’s what to look for in a transport company.
Familiarity with US Import Regulations
Rules matter when shipping a car to the USA. The EPA and DOT have strict standards. Your vehicle must meet these to enter. Good car shipping companies know these rules inside out.
Look for a company that understands both Canadian and US import laws. They should help you understand and meet complex requirements. This includes the 15-year rule for imported cars. Ask if they can help with the necessary paperwork.
| Document | Purpose |
| EPA Form 3520-1 | Declares vehicle’s emissions compliance |
| DOT HS-7 Declaration Form | Confirms vehicle meets safety standards |
A knowledgeable car transport Canada company can make cross-border shipping smoother. They’ll ensure your car meets all requirements before it moves. This prevents costly delays or rejections at the border.
Customs Clearance Expertise
Crossing borders with a car involves lots of paperwork. You need documents for both Canadian and US customs. Auto transport companies should handle this for you. They should know which forms you need and how to file them.
Ask if the company works with licensed customs brokers. These experts can manage duties, taxes, and entry fees. They make the process smoother and faster. A good broker can save you time and stress.
- Key documents for US customs:
- Vehicle Title
- CBP Form 7501 (Vehicle Import Form)
Shipping companies with solid customs processes can speed things up. They know how to clear inspections quickly. This means less waiting for your car to arrive.
Cross-Border Insurance Coverage
Insurance is crucial when shipping your car from Canada to the USA. Car shipping companies should offer policies that cover the entire journey. Check if their insurance works in both countries, including while your car crosses the border.
Some policies might not cover certain areas or routes. Ask about liability limits for cross-border trips. See if they offer extra insurance for international shipping. This protects your car throughout its journey.
| Insurance Feature | Why It’s Important |
| Cross-Border Coverage | Protects cars in both countries |
| Transit Coverage | Covers car while crossing the border |
| Supplementary Insurance | Offers extra protection if needed |
Good auto transport companies explain their insurance clearly. They help you understand what’s covered and what’s not. This prevents surprises if something goes wrong during shipping.
Understanding of Duties and Taxes
Shipping a car to the USA involves extra costs. There are customs duties, taxes, and import fees, depending on your car’s value and US rules. A good car transport company explains these costs upfront.
Most personal-use vehicles face a 2.5% duty (25% for trucks), but there are exceptions. USMCA rules might apply, and military personnel moving might get special rates. Ask your shipping company about these details.
The right company helps with paperwork to avoid surprise fees. They guide you through the process, making your car shipping experience smoother and more predictable.
Experience with US Routes and Conditions
Shipping a car across borders is complex. It’s more than just moving between countries. Good auto transport companies know both Canadian and US roads well. They understand weather patterns and logistics in both places.
Choose a company familiar with US road conditions. They should know about toll roads and seasonal weather issues. This knowledge helps in high-traffic areas like New York or California.
| US Transport Knowledge | Benefits |
| Road Condition Awareness | Safer transport, fewer delays |
| Weather Pattern Understanding | Avoids seasonal hazards |
| Route Optimization | Faster, more efficient delivery |
Experienced car shipping companies plan smart routes. They avoid busy areas and winter storms. This makes your car’s journey safer and faster. When choosing a company for auto transport Canada to USA, ask about their US experience. It can make a big difference in your shipping experience.
How do I know if my car transport company is legit?
Verifying the legitimacy of a car shipping company is crucial before entrusting them with your vehicle.
| Red Flags | Green Flags |
| Newly registered website | Long-standing online presence |
| No physical address | Verifiable business location |
| All perfect reviews | A mix of ratings averaging 4+ stars |
| Full payment is required upfront | Deposit-based payment structure |
Website:
A company’s online presence can reveal much about its credibility. Look for these key indicators:
- SSL certificate: A padlock icon in the URL bar and “https://” indicate secure transactions.
- Errors in Writing: The website should be free of grammatical and spelling errors, demonstrating professionalism.
- Registration age: Use whois.com to verify if the site has been registered for over a year.
Additionally, review the quality of the content. Look for detailed guides on car transport topics and active social media profiles with genuine customer feedback.
Business Details:
Verifying a company’s physical presence is crucial in the car shipping industry. Use Google Maps street view to confirm the listed location matches the company’s name and address. This step helps ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate auto transport business.
Next, check the company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. A reputable car transport company in Canada should have the following:
| BBB Indicators | Ideal Status |
| Rating | A or A+ |
| Complaint Resolution | Prompt (within a few days) |
| Outstanding Complaints | Minimal to none |
Customer Reviews:
Genuine feedback from past clients can provide valuable insights. Make sure they’re genuine reviews:
- Balanced feedback: A mix of ratings suggests real customers. Be wary of all 5-star reviews.
- Review sources: Check third-party sites like Google and Facebook, not just the company’s website.
- Timespan: Consistent reviews over an extended period indicate an established company.
Pay attention to review content. Authentic reviews often mention specific service details about the car shipping experience, not just general satisfaction.
Payment Practices:
Legitimate car shipping companies typically follow these payment practices:
- Accept credit cards or PayPal for added protection
- Require only a small deposit upfront, not full payment
- Demonstrate PCI compliance for secure online transactions
Be cautious of any auto transport service that insists on wire transfers or full payment before shipping your vehicle.
Past Client References:
A reputable car transport company should be able to provide 4-5 references from clients with similar vehicles or shipping needs as yours.
When contacting these references, ask about their overall experience, any challenges faced, and how the company handled unexpected situations.
Let Canadian Car Shipping Help You Move Your Vehicles Worry-Free:
When it comes to moving cars, nobody does it better than Canadian Car Shipping; that’s what many folks who’ve used us say about our services. If you want to experience the true convenience of moving your vehicle within Canada or to/from the United States, feel free to ring us up and get a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll get your wheels moving in no time!