Whether you’re heading to Toronto or Vancouver, Calgary or Montreal, moving to Canada is an exciting adventure. But, it also comes with a few challenges, especially when it comes to shipping your personal belongings and household goods successfully. To keep the process of moving to Canada as simple and stress-free as possible, you need to understand Canadian customs.

Shipping Personal Belongings and Household Goods to Canada

When you’re organising removals to Canada, you need to provide several important documents. This includes a completed BSF186 or BSF186A form for an attached goods-to-follow list, an inventory list of everything you are shipping, proof of identity – such as your passport – and proof of residency status, like your permanent resident card, work permit, study permit or visa.

Usually, personal items that you’ve owned and used abroad for at least six months before moving are eligible for duty-free and tax-free entry into Canada. But, if you’re bringing in new or high value goods, you may be required to pay duties or taxes depending on the value, type and quantity.

Prohibited Items at Canadian Customs

As is the case in most places, Canada has strict rules on what you can and can’t import into the country. Bringing prohibited items into Canada could result in fines, delays or confiscation of your goods, so it’s important to know what isn’t allowed.

• Certain Foods – Homemade or unlabeled meat products are not permitted, and raw milk is strictly banned due to health risks. 
• Weapons and Firearms – Automatic firearms, silencers, replica guns, switchblades, butterfly knives, brass knuckles, tasers, stun guns and pepper spray are all strictly prohibited.
• Drugs – Illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, synthetic drugs and related paraphernalia are banned. While cannabis is legal in Canada, it is illegal to bring cannabis products across the border.
• Hateful Material – Any material promoting hate, terrorism or violence against a group of people is banned under Canadian law.
• Certain Animal Products – Bushmeat is prohibited due to disease risks. Products made from endangered or illegally poached animals – such as coral, reptile skins, or exotic leathers – are also banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).
• Explosives – TNT, C-4, grenades, land mines and non-compliant fireworks are strictly forbidden.
• Counterfeit Goods – Fake or pirated goods – including counterfeit clothing, shoes, electronics, currency and media – are not allowed to enter Canada.

Restricted Items at Canadian Customs

Some goods can be brought into Canada, but only under specific conditions. If you plan to bring any of the following items to Canada with you, you need to declare them.

• Meats – Certain meats are allowed if they are commercially packaged, clearly labelled and from Canadian Food Inspection Agency approved countries. Examples include canned meats, jerky, or vacuum-sealed sausages.

• Dairy and Eggs – Up to 20kg of dairy products from the USA can be imported for personal use, provided they are commercially packaged and labelled, but that varies depending on where you are travelling from. You may also bring up to 30 eggs per person if they are commercially packaged, free of cracks and declared at customs.

• Plants and Seeds – Certain plants, seeds and plant products are permitted from approved countries, but must be imported in small quantities and properly declared.

• Alcohol and Tobacco – You can bring limited quantities of alcohol and tobacco into Canada duty-free, but strict limits apply. Anything above those limits will be subject to duties and provincial taxes.
• Certain Firearms -Firearms for sporting or hunting purposes may be brought into Canada if they are declared, registered and comply with Canadian regulations.
• Used or Second-Hand Mattresses – These may be imported only if they have been cleaned and fumigated, and are accompanied by a certificate from the exporter. The certificate must include full details of the cleaning and fumigation process.

• Medications – Prescription medication is allowed if accompanied by a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Some over-the-counter medications may be restricted or require special approval.

Tips for a Smooth Canadian Customs Experience

Moving to Canada can feel overwhelming, as there’s a fair amount to organise. You need to find accommodation, organise visas and pack everything. You might even need to navigate moving with a pet. But, it’s Canadian customs that trips a lot of people up. Rather than winging it and hoping for the best, familiarise yourself with the Canadian customs experience, as this will help you to have a smooth, straightforward journey.

Have Accurate and Completed Paperwork

One of the most common reasons for customs delays in Canada is incomplete or inaccurate documentation. Make sure all your forms are filled out correctly and match your inventory list.

Know What You’re Bringing

Think carefully about what you want to take to Canada. List all items clearly on your inventory, even small ones. Being transparent can prevent extra inspections and delays.

Declare All Items

If you’re unsure whether an item is restricted or not, declare it. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Failure to declare goods could result in fines or confiscation, something easily avoided with full honesty from the beginning.

Do Your Research

The more you know about the Canadian customs process, the better. Take a moment to research what you can expect, the documents you need to provide and how everything should be packed. There’s a lot of silly mistakes that can be avoided by a few minutes of research.

Use a Reliable Removals Service

Working with an experienced international moving company can make the entire process smoother. At United Internationals Removals, we have expertise in Canadian customs clearance and can guide you through the paperwork, regulations and logistics.

Streamline The International Removal Process

Working with a trusted international removals company makes the process of moving to Canada much easier. With the help of the United International Removals experts, you can focus on settling into your new life in Canada, knowing your belongings are being handled with care. Get in touch to find out more.