Bringing your stuff
Both countries let people who are moving bring their used household goods without duty, as long as you declare them properly. Cars, pets, alcohol and firearms have extra rules.
Household goods into Canada
USA → Canada- List everything on CBSA Form BSF186 (Personal Effects Accounting Document), split into goods you bring now and "goods to follow". Fill it in at your first entry even if you're bringing nothing yet.
- Goods must have been owned, possessed and used before you arrive. Only goods listed as "goods to follow" on that first form come in duty-free later.
- Selling settlers' goods within 12 months can make duty payable.
- Report cash and similar instruments of CAN$10,000 or more.
Household goods into the U.S.
Canada → USAPeople moving to the U.S. declare household and personal goods to CBP. Shipments that arrive separately from you are declared on CBP Form 3299. Keep an itemized list with values, and ask your mover or a customs broker what CBP needs for your situation.
Cars: U.S. → Canada
USA → Canada- Check Transport Canada's list of admissible U.S. vehicles, then the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program. You need a recall clearance letter before you import.
- You have 45 days after import to finish the RIV process and inspection. Vehicles more than 15 years old are exempt from the safety-standards part but still go through CBSA.
- U.S. law requires the vehicle's title and documents to be presented to U.S. Customs at least 72 hours before export.
- Then register and insure it in your province.
Cars: Canada → U.S.
Canada → USATo import a car permanently, it generally has to meet U.S. EPA emissions and DOT safety standards. Many Canadian-market cars do; check the manufacturer's label and ask the manufacturer for a letter if needed. Cars 25 years old or more are exempt from the DOT safety standards. Some states give you a short window to register: California, for example, wants out-of-state and foreign vehicles registered within 20 days.
Pets
- Dogs into the U.S.: must be at least 6 months old, microchipped, healthy, and have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
- Dogs and cats into Canada: requirements depend on the animal's age. Use CFIA's pet import tool and bring rabies vaccination records.
Firearms and cannabis
- Firearms: both countries have strict rules, permits and prohibited lists. Never bring one without checking with CBSA/RCMP or ATF/CBP first.
- Cannabis: crossing the border with cannabis or any product containing it is illegal, even with a medical authorization and even if it's legal where you live.
Common questions
Do I pay duty on my furniture?
Usually not, if you're moving there and the goods are used and declared properly. In Canada list everything, including goods to follow, on Form BSF186 at your first entry.
Can I bring my car?
Often, but check first. U.S. → Canada goes through the RIV program and needs a recall clearance. Canada → U.S. requires the car to meet EPA and DOT standards. Sometimes selling is simpler.
Can I bring cannabis if it's legal where I live?
No. Taking cannabis across the border is illegal in both directions, even with a medical authorization.
What do I need to bring my dog?
Into the U.S.: at least 6 months old, microchipped, healthy, with a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Into Canada: requirements depend on the dog's age; use CFIA's pet tool.
Last checked: October 2026