How to Move Your Car from Toronto to Vancouver Hassle-Free
Are you heading over to Vancouver from Toronto? Kudos for your relocation! As your surroundings are guaranteed to be stunning, you will also need to figure out how to transport your vehicle cross-country. Shipping your car is a hassle-free and frequently inexpensive method. We will guide you through the procedures associated with the vehicle registration in British Columbia and how the transportation will take place so that the entire process is as streamlined as possible.
1. Register your vehicle in British Columbia
In order to operate any vehicle in British Columbia, you must first register it with the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) and obtain a legal permit.
For Vehicles Coming from Different Canadian Territories: As long as there is an active permit for the vehicle, the individual is required to have:
- Current Canadian vehicle registration
- Certificate of Title (if required)
- Vehicle inspection report issued from a pre-authorized facility in British Columbia
- Identification documents
- Signed Bill of sale (if applicable)
For Vehicles Imported from Other Countries:
- Import documents provided by the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA)
- Original title documents or certificate of origin
- Inspection report provided from a pre-authorized facility in British Columbia
New West Partnership Trade Agreement:
If your car or light truck is from Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba and if you meet a specific set of criteria (age, ownership, etc.), you might not need to get inspected under certain circumstances. See the "New West Partnership Trade Agreement" section below for more.
Important Issues:
- Vehicle Inspection: Practically all automobiles imported into B.C. need a safety inspection at a government-designated inspection facility.
- Provincial Sales Tax (PST): PST may be levied on the purchase or import of your vehicle.
- Insurance: Obtain BC insurance from an Autoplan broker before driving your vehicle in the province.
2. Selecting a Car Shipping Company:
- Research and Compare: Research well-known car shipping companies that ship between Toronto and Vancouver. Read customer reviews, compare prices, and ask questions about their services and insurance coverage. Here is the list of top 5 car shipping companies in Canada.
- Consider Your Needs: Consider your budget, preferred transport method (open or enclosed), and any special requirements you may have.
- Get Quotes: Get quotes from multiple companies to compare prices and services.
- Read the Terms and Conditions: Read all the terms and conditions of every company before deciding.
3. Shipment Preparation
- Vehicle Inspection: Inspect your vehicle before shipping. Take pictures and document any pre-existing damage to your vehicle.
- Vehicle Preparation: Clean your vehicle inside and out, remove any personal belongings from your vehicle, and ensure your battery is securely fastened in place.
- Insurance Coverage: Check that your vehicle is covered through insurance during shipment.
4. During Shipping:
Keep in touch with your shipping company all during the transport cycle.
To track your vehicle, use every available tracking facilities.
5. Upon Delivery:
- Inspect Your Vehicle. Inspect your vehicle once it's delivered for whatever new damage that might have occurred during shipping. Report whatever you find to the shipping company right away.
- Complete the Delivery Process. Sign the bill of lading. Fill up any paperwork.
Tips for a Smooth Transition:
- Plan ahead: Start making all the preparations for your move and car shipping a little in advance.
- Gather all necessary documents: Ensure that you have all the documents necessary for vehicle registration and insurance.
- Choose a reliable company: Ensure that you have selected a company with a history of safe and reliable service.
- Effective communication: Keep open and clear communication with the shipping company at every stage.
