Canada Province-by-Province: Customs Paperwork and Delivery Realities that Catch Movers Out

December 10 2025

Moving to Canada – the ultimate adventure , whether that means settling into the vibrant heart of a major city or finding a quieter pace of life in a rural community. Your belongings are probably on a plane or a ship as we speak – and once they arrive, the next big challenge is figuring out the ins and outs of getting them through customs and delivered to your new digs. Now, Canada’s rules on bringing household goods into the country make sense, but there are a few niggling details that can catch new arrivals out – especially around things like proof-of-use for certain items, declaring alcohol, and getting things delivered to really remote places.

This guide is here to give you a crash course on the essentials, outline what you need to know province by province, and offer some practical tips to help you prepare.

Understanding Canada’s Customs Process For Household Goods

Canada’s got a pretty clear process for letting new residents and returning Canadians bring in used household goods duty-free, as long as you get the right paperwork done and the stuff you’re bringing meets the eligibility criteria. The process itself is pretty straightforward, although there are a few nitty-gritty details that can cause some confusion.

The Two Key Customs Forms: BSF186 & BSF186A

These two forms are the foundation of getting your customs clearance sorted.

BSF186 (Personal Effects Accounting Document)

This is the main horse you need to ride on. It’s where you confirm your residency status and list all the goods you’re bringing in, including any that are arriving unaccompanied.

BSF186A (List Of Goods)

This is your detailed inventory – and although your mover will probably prepare the packing list, it’s your responsibility to make sure the information on the customs forms is spot on.

Both forms need to be validated in person at a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) office when you first rock up in Canada. If you forget to do this, you might find yourself facing duties and taxes on your shipment.

Proof-Of-Use Rules

Canada’s got a pretty clear divide between used and new items. Used household goods are duty-free, but anything that’s deemed new might attract some extra duties or checks. If you’re bringing in something valuable – like a fancy laptop or designer handbag – officers might ask for some proof of ownership. While receipts aren’t always required, it’s a good idea to have one handy, just in case.

Alcohol Declarations: Often A Source Of Frustration

Alcohol’s a bit more tightly regulated than most household goods. A lot of people assume they can just send a few bottles with their shipment, but in most cases, it’s going to attract duties and provincial mark-ups.

If you do decide to ship some booze, you’ll need to:

Declare every single bottle on both the BSF186 and BSF186A forms
Give all the details – brand, quantity, percentage, and size
Expect duties and provincial fees – and possibly even some extra admin
In some provinces, you might need to get permission from the liquor authority before shipping

Given the cost and hassle, a lot of people just end up leaving the booze behind.

Guy and girl snowboard excess baggage Canada

Province-By-Province Customs Quirks And Delivery Realities

Canada’s customs rules are federal, but getting things delivered is a whole different story – every province’s got its own quirks and challenges, depending on the landscape, weather, and infrastructure. Here’s a quick lowdown on what to expect in each region:

Ontario

Customs & paperwork: No major issues, but do be aware that Toronto’s CBSA offices are pretty busy – and you might need to get some special permission for things like alcohol imports (which are pretty heavily taxed by the LCBO)
Delivery realities: In Toronto, you’ll often need to book lift access and loading bays in advance – especially in the older areas. And if you’re heading further out into the countryside, be prepared for some long wait times during the winter months

British Columbia

Customs & paperwork: Vancouver’s got a pretty slick customs process, but do watch out for things like biosecurity inspections on wooden furniture or outdoor gear. And if you’re bringing in some booze, you’ll want to be aware of the pretty strict regulations and taxes.
Delivery realities: In Vancouver, you’ll often need to book lift access and make sure your delivery vehicle can handle the steep hills up in North Vancouver and West Vancouver. And if you’re heading out into the sticks, be prepared for some longer transit times and winter weather holdups.

Alberta

Customs & paperwork: The rules on alcohol are a bit more relaxed in Alberta, but it’s still worth being aware of the duties that apply. And if you’re bringing in some sporting gear, especially anything related to hunting, be prepared for some extra questions.
Delivery realities: Calgary and Edmonton are pretty straightforward for deliveries, but be aware that rural areas can get a bit tricky during severe winter storms – and deliveries might be a bit more limited during those times.

Quebec

Customs & paperwork: The CBSA is pretty good at dealing with English forms, but it’s worth knowing that some local authorities might require you to provide French documentation. And if you’re bringing in any antiques or artwork, be prepared for some close inspections.
Delivery realities: Montreal’s an older city, so you might need to arrange parking and lift access in some areas. And be aware that winter weather can be pretty rough in Quebec – especially up in the smaller towns along the St. Lawrence River.