Shipping a Container to Canada from the UK

How Long Does it Take to Ship a Container to Canada?

Are you planning a move to Canada? Get dates and port to port transit times for each vessel departing from the UK to Canada.

Short Answer: Port to port transit times between the UK and Canada are typically between 10 to 30 days, depending on the port of arrival. For more detailed times for each port/vessel please see our table below.

Container Tracking

Once your goods have been loaded you will receive a unique container number. We offer a container tracking service through trace-track.com, allowing you to track your container in real-time. Simply enter your container number to get the latest information about your shipment:

Shipping container tracking

Restricted and Prohibited Items for Container Shipping to Canada

When shipping personal effects to Canada via container, it's important to consider the prohibited and restricted items list to avoid complications at customs. Some items may not be as obvious as you might think, for example, you are prohibited from shipping a used mattress into Canada. Your belongings, for the most part, should be allowed to enter Canada seamlessly; however, it's always best to check beforehand. Your moving/shipping company should be happy to provide guidance & advice according to your inventory list.

Prohibited Items

The following items are strictly prohibited for shipping to Canada:

• Fraudulent or counterfeit products or materials (e.g. lottery tickets, coins, propaganda)
• Live animals
• Any goods that were elaborated in a prison
• Inappropriate or pornographic material
• Used mattresses
• Second-hand cars and vehicles that do not comply with Canadian standards
• Certain firearms, weapons, and ammunition
• Contraceptive items and materials
• Certain chemicals including corrosives, oxidizing and nuclear substances
• Butter substitutes such as margarine
• Certain metals including gold
• Poisonous substances

Restricted Items

The following items are restricted and might require additional documentation to clear customs:

• Firearms and weapons
• Explosives such as fireworks
• Food
• Plant or animal-related materials
• Vehicles
• Certain consumer products that potentially endanger the public
• Uncut diamonds and expensive jewellery
• Certain liquors
• Certain films
• Certain drugs and medical materials
• Eggs, milk, and other animal-derived foods
• Certain liquids
• Root vegetables such as potatoes or onions
• Tobacco
• Wheat and other related crops

To make the shipping process from the UK to Canada smoother, it is recommended to create an inventory list of all your belongings. With this list, we can ensure your items comply with Canadian shipping regulations.

Once the packing list is prepared, you must declare everything you're bringing. This can be done ahead of time by completing declaration forms for Canadian customs, which we can also assist with.

Certain items might be subjected to duty or taxes in Canada. Visit the Canadian Border Services Agency website for a complete list and detailed information.

At 1st Move International, we're committed to making your international move as easy as possible and we're here to assist with all of the paperwork and customs formalities associated with shipping personl effects to Canada via container. For further information on our customs clearance procedures or for a moving quote, please get in touch with us or complete the quick quote form on this page.

Main Container Shipping Ports in Canada

Canada, with its extensive coastline, is home to several major ports that play an integral role in the transportation of goods to and from the UK and other countries across the globe. Here are some of the main container shipping ports in Canada:

• Port of Vancouver: The Port of Vancouver is the largest port in Canada and the third largest in North America by tonnes of cargo. It's a significant gateway that connects Canadian businesses with more than 170 trading economies globally. The port manages a vast range of goods and in 2022, it handled approximately 141 million tonnes of cargo.
• Port of Montreal: The Port of Montreal is the largest port in Eastern Canada and the second largest in the country overall. It's a crucial hub for transatlantic trade, playing a critical role in the container shipping sector. In 2022, the port handled over 1.6 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units, a measure of cargo capacity).
• Port of Halifax: The Port of Halifax is the largest port in Atlantic Canada and the deepest, ice-free port in North America, making it a preferred choice for container shipping. With its unique advantage, the port handled more than 550,000 TEUs in 2022.
• Port of Prince Rupert: The Port of Prince Rupert in British Columbia is the closest North American port to Asia by up to three sailing days, offering great access to key markets. It's renowned for its efficient and fast service, having handled approximately 1.2 million TEUs in 2022.
• Port of Saint John: The Port of Saint John in New Brunswick is the third largest port in Canada by tonnage. This port is a crucial shipping gateway, offering a strategic connection to over 350 ports worldwide.

Trust Us with Your Move to Canada

With over 25 years of experience in the removals industry, we offer unrivalled expertise and exceptional services tailored to your needs.

At 1st Move International, we take pride in offering faster shipping and safer packing. We meticulously handle every item, ensuring your belongings reach their new home safely. As members of the British International Freight Association (BIFA) and the British Association of Removers (BAR), we uphold the highest standards of professionalism and care in every move.

Ready to take the first step towards your Canadian journey? Get a free, no-obligation quote for our removal services today.