If you are planning to ship a car to Canada from Dubai, it is not a small task. It is a big process. There are many steps to follow, decisions to take and other possible requirements. You can either be exporting a vehicle you already own for personal reasons or shipping a fleet for business purposes. But having a basic idea about how it works can help you in the long run.
Canada is a country with a stable and well developed market. They have clear vehicle import rules. They also have a large second hand car market. This makes shipping a vehicle from overseas possible. It requires careful planning and expert handling. In this blog, we will talk about the entire process. It will help you gain a better understanding.
Why do people ship a car to Canada?
Dubai is a city full of expats. Some decide to take their car with them when travelling back to Canada. It could be for temporary purposes or permanent purposes. They find this option to be cheaper than buying a new one or renting one out. It also gives them a sense of familiarity with zero hassle.
On the other hand, you have companies, business owners, car dealers, etc, looking to ship one or more cars overseas. They do it for many reasons. For example, expanding an existing business, starting up a new one, etc. Some even introduce new models to the country’s automotive market. Others move cars for exhibitions, trade shows, etc. Did you know that shipping also helps businesses maintain partnerships between the two countries?
The key steps for shipping your car from Dubai to Canada
Here is a simple breakdown of the main steps taken when it comes to shipping a vehicle from Dubai to Canada. You will be guided through most of it based on the shipping company you choose.
- Determining eligibility & compliance – It is important to confirm whether the vehicle you are planning to ship is allowed to be imported into Canada. This is because the vehicles that are made for the market outside of the U.S or Mexico often cannot be imported without following certain conditions.
- Choosing a shipping mode – There are many different types of shipping methods out there. But when it comes to shipping cars or any other vehicles overseas, the most recommended methods are RoRo shipping, container shipping and air freight.
- Exporting from Dubai – Before the exporting procedures start, always prepare the vehicle. Make sure your car is in good condition. Keep important documents, such as the registration details, with you.
- Booking the shipping slot – Once you have sorted out the basic information, you can reach out to a bunch of shipping companies. It is also the time to select and finalise the port of departure in Dubai. Make sure to specify the exact destination in Canada. This way, the shipping agent can calculate the cost and duration for the closest port to your location.
- Shipment in transit – The transit time depends on many factors. For example, the shipping mode, carrier route, destination port in Canada, etc. Before finalising the shipment, make sure to apply for insurance. It protects your vehicle from any possible damage or loss.
- Tracking your shipment – It is important to be able to get updates regarding the progress of the shipment. Companies like Aeon Shipping and We Movers are known to provide you with real time updates. This also allows you to be prepared for the vehicle’s arrival.
- Import and customs clearance in Canada – Before arrival, make sure that you have all the necessary documentation ready. Once they are cleared, you can register the vehicle with your licensing authority and obtain the Canadian license plates.
Post import steps in Canada that you need to keep in mind:
- Make sure to have proper insurance in Canada.
- It is also important that the vehicle meets local road authority and transport requirements.
- Keep all paperwork for future proof (sale, transfer, inspection, etc). Do not get rid of or misplace any of them.
- When using a shipping company in Dubai, you may have to follow up with their services for delivery or inland transport inside Canada.
Things to consider when it comes to cost and logistics
Here are some of the major factors that will affect the cost, time, etc, of shipping a car to Canada from Dubai:
Shipping Method
As we mentioned above, there are three types of shipping methods when transporting a car from Dubai to Canada. Each shipping method has a different cost, form of protection and transit time.
- RoRo Shipping – This shipping method has no handling or packaging costs. Your car will be driven on and off the vessel. It is a cost effective option.
- Container Shipping – It is best to use container shipping when shipping cars that are luxury, rare or not in working condition. These kinds of vehicles usually require special handling.
- Air Freight – If you are looking for a faster way to ship your car, then air freight is the best way to do so. But it is important to note that the costs are comparatively higher than the above methods.
Port of departure and destination
Sometimes the most popular routes may be cheaper, whereas remote Canadian ports may add cost. Here is a list of the departing ports in Dubai and the arrival ports in Canada:
- In Dubai, you have Jebel Ali Port and Port Al Rashid.
- In Canada, you have the Port of Vancouver, Port of Halifax, Port of Montreal, Port of Saint John, Port of Prince Rupert and Port of Quebec City.
Documentation & customs clearance
If your vehicle does not meet Canadian or U.S. standards, then you may be denied entry or even be charged with modification costs. It is also important to keep in mind that duties and taxes come at a greater cost when shipping to countries like Canada.
FAQ section for how to ship a car to Canada from Dubai
Here is a list of questions at a glance with some of the important points. These are also questions that are often asked by clients and explained by shipping companies.
Can I ship any car from Dubai to Canada?
No. It is because many vehicles built for markets outside the U.S. or Mexico may not meet Canadian safety standards. So it won’t be allowed for importing.
What is the easiest route/shipping mode?
RoRo car shipping is often the most budget friendly method for standard vehicles. Container shipping offers more protection. This is more costly. It is better for vehicles with a higher value.
How long will it take?
This depends on factors such as the time taken at the departure port in Dubai, the route, the company’s shipping schedule, the destination port in Canada, customs clearance time and more. The time frame can range from a few weeks to a few months.
What costs should I expect besides shipping?
Duties, taxes, inspection fees, registration fees, inland transport in Canada, compliance modification if required and insurance.
What happens if my car fails to meet Canadian import standards?
Your car may then be refused entry, detained or you may even be required to export it back to Dubai. This will come at a serious additional cost.
In conclusion
Although shipping a car to Canada may sound very complicated, it is not impossible. The process just requires careful attention to detail, with things such as the rules and regulations, logistics, costs, timelines, etc. Partnering with the right shipping company will make things a whole lot easier for you. With good planning and a reliable logistics provider, you can handle the export side from Dubai and coordinate the import side in Canada without any stress or worries.
