Moving to Canada from New Zealand

Canada is the world’s second largest country by area and we are are here to help you to move to any part of The Big Country. There are many reasons why New Zealanders move to Canada, including seeking new career opportunities and being drawn by Canada’s robust economy and job market. Additionally, some New Zealanders may be enticed by Canada’s multiculturalism, vast natural landscapes, and opportunities for adventure and outdoor activities, offering a change of scenery and lifestyle.

Canada-Vancouver

Canada Moving Services

New Zealand Movers make moving to Canada from NZ is easy with our complete door-to-door moving and storage services backed by our knowledge, experience, network of trusted partners and competitive pricing.

We have the following relocation services available for moving to Canada:

Sea freight in a shared container (Vancouver and Toronto gateways)

Over the last 42 years New Zealand Movers have moved thousands of people to Canada from Aotearoa and are regarded as the international moving experts. Request a quote today by completing the form below for a fast, competitive service or call our friendly team on: 0800 000 022

Request a Free Quote

Canada Moving Destinations

Distances don’t come much bigger than those between the major destination cities of Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. But no matter which part of Canada you’re moving to, we’ll deliver your shipment door-to-door.

Get a Quote for Moving to Canada

We don’t need much to work out the cost of moving your belongings to your new home in Canada. Whatever your requirements, we have a variety of options for you.  To get started, simply complete the Free Quote request form on this page and we’ll be in touch.

Like all countries, if you are immigrating to Canada one of the most important things to do is ensure that you have the appropriate visa. To import your household goods into Canada they will need to be cleared by the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA). You must be prepared in advance of travelling to Canada, to take up residence. To get your shipment cleared you will need to go to your nearest Customs office to attend a meeting with the CBSA.

As a new immigrant to Canada you are allowed to import your household goods free of duty provided you have owned and used them abroad. For immigrants there will be duties payable on any brand new furniture and appliances. Canadian citizens can import their goods duty free. If you are a returning resident you must have been outside Canada for more than a year. There are duties payable on all alcohol and cigarettes entering Canada.

* Disclaimer: All information provided is a general guide only and can change without notice. We suggest making contact with the appropriate authorities for verification.

The following door-to-door transit times apply to Canada. These are average times, given as a guide to assist your planning. The transit times for shared containers can vary and are subject to having enough shipments to fill a container.

  • Via the West Coast of Canada
    Sole Use Container & Crated LCL 8-9 weeks, Shared Container 10-16 weeks
  • Via the East Coast of Canada
    Sole Use Container & Crated LCL 9-10 weeks, Shared Container 12-18 weeks
  • Air freight: 1-2 weeks

We recommend that we professionally pack your goods. We use the best materials available and employ the latest techniques to ensure your goods arrive safely. We also have a variety of cartons, tailor-made for items such as flat screen TVs, golf clubs, hanging clothes, bikes, and artwork. We also custom-build wooden crates for fragile and precious items.

Packing Pictures For Moving

Every item moving will be packed either in a carton or export wrapped. Once packed all goods will be numbered with a label sticker and recorded on the removal inventory.

You are welcome to pack some or all of your goods yourself if you prefer. We can  provide you with packing materials and a handy packing guide to help you.

We have storage facilities available in New Zealand and Canada. If you store at destination, your goods are ready more quickly when you need them.  If you store them in New Zealand, you will need to wait until they arrive.  If you are not sure what your final destination will be we can store your goods here in New Zealand until your plans are decided. This will avoid unnecessary shipping costs if you change your mind.

New Zealand Movers Auckland

You should insure your goods during relocation to give you peace of mind and to provide protection, just in case.  We offer a range of insurance options through Vero marine, one of the world’s largest and most reputable insurance providers.

And to top it off and make your move to Canada complete we can provide house cleaning after emptying your home, arrange the transferring of your funds to Canada with foreign exchange services and perhaps even valet unpacking at your destination to really put the finishing touches in place.

If you require currency exchange, we will introduce you to XE Money Transfer, one of New Zealand’s leading Foreign exchange companies, to arrange the transferring of your funds to Canada. You will benefit from discounted fees and the best exchange rates available when you move to the Canada with New Zealand Movers.

Moving to Canada FAQ

Can I take food to Canada?

We strongly suggest not taking any food to Canada, especially meat products.

Can I take alcohol to Canada?

Yes you can, but you will have to pay duty and tax.

Who will clear my shipment with Customs in Canada?

To obtain clearance for your shipment into Canada you will need to go to your nearest Customs office to attend a meeting with the Canadian Border Services Agency.

Do you have shared containers going to Canada?

Yes, we have shared containers going to the gateway ports of Vancouver and Toronto.

Will I have to pay duties on my goods in Canada?

As a new immigrant to Canada you are allowed to import your household goods free of duty provided you have owned and used them abroad. For immigrants there will be duties payable on any brand new furniture and appliances. Canadian citizens can import their goods in duty free.

Can I take firearms to Canada?

Yes you can, however you must check with the firearms centre in Ottawa as you must obtain an import-export licence before you ship them.