Moving to the USA from Canada
Canada and the U.S. share the world's longest land border, so most household moves go by road freight — faster and cheaper than the overseas shipping most relocations require. The bigger hurdle is usually immigration status, not logistics. This guide covers your visa options (including the Canada-only TN category), realistic cross-border moving costs, transit times and U.S. customs for returning residents and new immigrants.
Estimate your move cost
An instant, route-specific range for Canada. Adjust the details for a closer figure, then get matched with movers for exact quotes.
Estimated shipping cost
$4,500 – $6,700
Indicative only — based on typical 2 bedrooms moves. Get real quotes below.
Your U.S. visa options from Canada
As a Canadian citizen you have route options most nationalities don't — including TN status under USMCA. The right path depends on whether you're investing, transferring with an employer, or have extraordinary ability.
TN status (USMCA professionals)
Fast, renewable work status for 60+ listed professions — unique to Canadian and Mexican citizens.
E-2 Treaty Investor visa
For Canadians investing substantial capital in a U.S. business. We help you prepare the full application.
L-1 intracompany transfer
Move with your current employer to a U.S. office.
O-1 extraordinary ability
For those with national/international acclaim in their field.
EB-2 NIW green card
Self-petition permanent residence in the national interest.
Typical moving costs
Indicative ranges by home size for moving to the usa from canada. Reviewed 2026-06-15.
Studio
$1,800–$3,000
1 bedroom
$2,600–$4,500
2 bedrooms
$3,800–$6,500
3 bedrooms
$5,500–$9,500
20ft container
$3,500–$5,500
40ft container
$6,000–$9,000
What drives the cost
- Volume of goods (the single biggest factor)
- Dedicated vs shared truck
- Access at both ends (stairs, long carries, remote areas)
- Packing service vs self-pack
- Season — late spring/summer is busiest
Transit times
Shipping methods
- Road freight, dedicated truck (fastest, best for time-sensitive full moves)
- Road freight, shared load / consolidated (cheaper, longer windows)
- Sea or air (rarely needed for a land-border move)
Moving companies for this route
Compare what each mover offers, then request quotes to see exact pricing for your move.
| Mover | Best for | Door-to-door | Packing | Storage | Vehicles | Pets | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Van Lines | Best overall, Full-service moves | Get quote | |||||
| Allied International | Families, Storage options | Get quote | |||||
| Crown Relocations | Premium, Corporate relocation | Get quote | |||||
| Seven Seas Worldwide | Budget, Small moves & students | Get quote | |||||
| Sirelo (compare multiple movers) | Compare several quotes at once | Get quote |
Movers serving the Canada route. Links go to each company's own quote page; we may be compensated for referrals. We don't publish third-party star ratings — request quotes to compare directly.
Customs & import rules
- Goods clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the border crossing.
- Used personal/household effects owned and used for 1+ year are generally duty-free for someone relocating.
- Prepare a detailed inventory; new items may be dutiable.
- Restricted items (firearms, certain foods/plants, alcohol over limits) need separate clearance.
Frequently asked questions
How long does moving from Canada to the USA take?
Cross-border road moves are typically 1–6 days in transit depending on distance, plus packing and customs clearance at the border. Plan 1–3 weeks door-to-door overall.
Do I pay duty on my belongings?
Used household goods you have owned and used for at least a year are generally duty-free when you are relocating. Keep a detailed inventory; newer or high-value items may be assessed.
What visa do I need to move to the US from Canada?
It depends on your situation — TN status, E-2, L-1, O-1 and EB-2 NIW are common routes for Canadians. Check your eligibility to find the best fit.
Should I ship by road or sea?
Almost always road freight — it is faster and cheaper than overseas shipping for a land-border move.
Estimates and timelines are indicative; mover and route details last reviewed 2026-06-15. We may be compensated when you request a quote through links on this page.