Moving from Europe
to Canada
Planning a move from Europe to Canada? Simplo's overseas groupage service makes it affordable and straightforward. You share container space with other shipments on the same transatlantic route — paying only for the volume you actually use. We manage everything from collection anywhere in Europe through to door-to-door delivery in Canada.
Whether your destination is Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, or anywhere else in Canada, Simplo coordinates the full journey including CBSA customs clearance.
Calculate my moving cost
Why use groupage for your move to Canada?
Canada is a major destination for European expats and returning residents. Groupage is particularly well-suited to this route because it offers the cost control of shared shipping with a fully managed, professional service — without the complexity of booking freight yourself.
Key benefits
- You only pay for the cubic metres you use
- Flexible collection from anywhere in Europe
- Regular Atlantic sailings from Rotterdam to major Canadian ports
- CBSA customs clearance fully coordinated
- Door-to-door delivery in Canada
- Optional packing, storage, and insurance
Transit times — Europe to Canada
Sea freight is the standard method for overseas household moves. Typical door-to-door transit times from Europe to Canada:
| Route | Transit time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Europe → Toronto / Montreal (East) | 5–8 weeks | Via Halifax or Montreal port |
| Europe → Vancouver (West Coast) | 7-10 weeks | Via Panama Canal |
| Europe → Calgary / Edmonton | 7-10 weeks | Via Vancouver, then inland |
Note: Groupage adds 1–2 weeks for consolidation at origin. CBSA customs processing adds a few days. Book at least 6–8 weeks before your target delivery date.
Canadian customs — what you need to know
Canada's customs process for household goods is managed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Simplo prepares all documentation and works with a licensed customs broker at your Canadian port of entry.
What is duty-free
- Used household goods owned and used for at least 6 months qualify for duty-free import under CBSA Form BSF186
- If you have been outside Canada for 5+ years, the 6-month ownership requirement does not apply
- Personal effects, furniture, clothing, and appliances are all eligible
- Goods cannot be sold within 1 year of importation
What is restricted or not allowed
- Firearms require a Canadian firearms permit — declared on arrival
- Camping and outdoor gear must be completely clean and free of soil and pests
- Used mattresses may require fumigation before shipping
- Food items are generally restricted — check CBSA guidelines for your specific goods
- Vehicles must meet Transport Canada and CBSA requirements — non-North American market vehicles may require modifications
Key documents required
- CBSA Form BSF186 — Personal Effects Accounting Document (submitted on or before arrival in Canada)
- Detailed itemised inventory in two sections: goods accompanying you and goods to follow
- Copy of passport and valid Canadian visa, work permit, or permanent residency document
- Proof of overseas residency and ownership of goods
Important: goods to follow (shipped separately) must appear on your original BSF186 list submitted at your first Canadian port of entry, or they will not qualify for duty-free import.
How your move works,
step by step
1. Get an instant quote
Enter your origin country, destination, and estimated volume. Our calculator gives you an immediate price estimate for your groupage move to Canada.
2. We plan your shipment
Once you confirm, we match your shipment with others on the same route. Your collection date is scheduled at a time that works for you.
3. Collection and consolidation
We collect your belongings from anywhere in Europe and consolidate them at our hub near Rotterdam, ready for ocean freight.
4. Ocean freight
Your container departs on a scheduled service. We track progress and keep you informed throughout the transit.
5. Customs clearance
Our local partner at the destination port handles all customs and biosecurity documentation on your behalf.
6. Door-to-door delivery
Your goods are transported from the port to your final address. Optional unpacking and storage are available.
Additional services
Alongside the core groupage service, you can add:
- Professional packing at your home
- Packing materials supplied in advance
- Short- or long-term storage at origin or destination
- Transit insurance coverage
- Vehicle shipping alongside household goods
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move from Europe to Canada?
Groupage pricing is based on volume (cubic metres). Use our instant quote tool for a real estimate based on your volume and destination city.
How long does shipping from Europe to Canada take?
Typically 5–10 weeks door-to-door depending on your Canadian destination. East Coast cities (Toronto, Montreal) are faster at 5–8 weeks. West Coast cities (Vancouver) take 7–10 weeks.
Do I need a customs broker to move household goods to Canada?
A licensed customs broker is strongly recommended and in practice required for sea freight shipments. Simplo arranges this at your arrival port as part of the service.
Can I ship a vehicle to Canada from Europe?
Yes, but Canadian vehicle import rules are strict. Non-North American market vehicles may require modifications to meet Canadian safety and emissions standards. Vehicles must be owned for at least 6 months before import. We advise on eligibility before shipping.
What European countries do you collect from?
We collect from all European countries. Our consolidation hub near Rotterdam handles regular departures to Canadian East and West Coast ports.
Ready to move?
Start your groupage quote and get an instant estimate for your overseas move.
Start your groupage quote