How to move your household across the border in 6 weeks
A week-by-week moving timeline for a Canada–US move.
Six weeks out, get at least three in-home or video estimates from movers who do cross-border moves. Ask each one how they handle customs paperwork, what insurance they include and how long delivery usually takes.
Four weeks out, make a detailed list of everything you're bringing, with rough values and serial numbers for electronics. Border officers will want a list of your household goods, and both countries have their own forms for people moving their belongings.
Sort out the tricky items early. Vehicles, firearms, alcohol, plants and some foods have their own import rules. Bringing a car across usually means extra paperwork and, in some cases, modifications, so check before you decide to drive it rather than sell it.
Two weeks out, arrange health coverage for the gap between leaving your old system and joining the new one, and line up utilities, internet and insurance at the new home.
Moving week, carry your passports, immigration papers, job letter, goods list and closing documents with you, not in the truck. Keep a few days of essentials with you, because shipments can be delayed at the border.
Step-by-step rules with official sources: Moving between Canada and the USA ›