Moving from Canada to the U.S.

Relocating to the U.S.A. from Canada

When moving from “the Great White North” to “the Land of Opportunity,” you can anticipate a similar lifestyle. However, sharing a border doesn’t mean that Canada and the United States have the same requirements for crossing it.

If you’ve previously relocated from the U.S. to Canada or made another international move, you might be familiar with customs paperwork. But even if you’re not, the process can go smoothly if you’re prepared.

Let’s review what’s required when moving from Canada to the U.S.

How to move to the U.S. from Canada

Canadian citizens moving to the States and U.S. citizens returning home must have essential documents in place. That means personal identification, a visa (for non-U.S. citizens) and customs documents.

What identification is needed for Canadians moving to the United States? 

You’ll need a valid Canadian passport to enter the country. Make sure to request it early since processing times can be lengthy. 

You’ll also need your Canadian driver’s license, marriage/birth certificates and divorce or custody agreements (if applicable).

Will I need a visa?  

Yes, you’ll need either an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa, depending on the reason for moving. Here’s how they work:

Immigrant visa

Immigrant visas allow you to move to the U.S. permanently, apply for a Social Security number and earn retirement. These types of visas are generally sponsored by families (for spouses or relatives of U.S. citizens) or an employer.

Forms I-130 for relatives or I-140 for employers are required to start the visa request.

Nonimmigrant visa

A nonimmigrant visa is for those moving for school or a temporary job.

• Employers must file a petition (Form I-129) on your behalf, which must be approved before you can apply for a temporary worker visa.
• Students and exchange visitors must be accepted by their schools or study program sponsors before applying for a student visa.

Can I bring my pets with me to the U.S.?

Yes! While there are regulations, Canada and the United States allow pets to move between the two countries. Learn more about moving pets to or from Canada.

Moving household goods from Canada to the United States

Now that you’re set to cross the border, you’ll need a way to transport your belongings. Some people choose to drive a rental truck when moving to or from Canada, but it can be a hassle.

Often, a DIY moving service like U-Pack® is an easier and cheaper way to move from Canada to the U.S. U-Pack has transported household shipments between the countries since 1997, and we’re ready to help you with a stress-free move.

With U-Pack, you do the packing and loading, then we drive the moving equipment across the border and clear the shipment through U.S. Customs for you (with the proper paperwork in place).

Note: U-Pack does not service intra-Canada moves.

Immigrating to the U.S. from Canada with U-Pack

For a cross-border move with U-Pack, the name must match on your Bill of Lading, U-Pack Move Plan, and all other documentation. You’ll also need to pay the customs administration fee of $62.02 required for all moves from Canada. 

Review the Do Not Ship list before loading the moving equipment. It’s also important to note that U-Pack is not authorized to ship anything with a VIN from Canada, including ATVs, boats, cars, jet skis, motorcycles, trucks, etc. For vehicle transport, we recommend Mr. Car Shipper®. You can contact the company directly at 877-528-9627.

Required U.S. Customs documents

To clear belongings through U.S. Customs, you’ll need the following documents. When moving with U-Pack, we’ll file paperwork on your behalf.

For questions about U.S. Customs policies, call 877-227-5511 within the U.S., or 202-325-8000 from other countries.

Copy of passport and visa

Non-U.S. citizens must provide a copy of their visa. Tourist visas are not acceptable. If you won’t get a visa before arriving, email moving@upack.com for help. Returning U.S. residents must provide a black and white copy of their passport photo page to prove citizenship.

U.S. Customs Form 3299

Both U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens must complete the Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles form 3299.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection I-94

Send a copy of your I-94 or entry record to the origin service center or moving@upack.com (not required for U.S. citizens).

An itemized list of belongings

A list of all items you’re moving, with their approximate used value in USD$.

Customs process for a returning U.S. citizen

U.S. citizens who have lived abroad can return to the United States, but belongings may be subject to duty fees depending on the length of absence and countries visited. Citizens must complete a CBP Declaration Form 6059B to list all purchased items and agricultural products.

Learn more about what to expect as a returning U.S. citizen.

Move to the U.S. with U-Pack

Choosing U-Pack for your move means you can cross the Canadian border by car or plane while we transport your things.

If you have questions about relocating to the U.S. with U-Pack, leave us a comment below. You can request a free online quote or call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant. We're happy to help!