What can I bring when moving to Canada?

Packing for Your Canadian Adventure: Navigating Duty-Free and Duty-Paid Items

Moving to Canada is an exciting undertaking, and sorting through your belongings to decide what to bring can be a daunting task. Fortunately, Canada offers generous duty-free allowances for personal belongings, making the transition smoother. However, understanding the nuances between “personal” and “new” items is crucial to avoid unexpected import fees.

What You Can Bring Duty-Free:

The key to successfully importing your possessions duty-free lies in demonstrating that they are genuinely used personal belongings. Think of items that reflect your established life:

• Clothing and Footwear: Your everyday wardrobe, including winter coats, boots, and other seasonal attire – provided they show reasonable wear and tear. Brand new, unworn clothing will likely be subject to duty.
• Household Goods: Furniture, kitchenware, bedding, and other household items that are used and show signs of previous use. This is where proving ownership becomes important. Consider keeping receipts or photos as evidence.
• Personal Electronics: Laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other electronics you’ve owned and used previously. Again, signs of use are your friends here.
• Books, Artwork, and Collectibles: Items that are clearly personal and reflect your established tastes. A complete, well-loved book collection, family photos, and cherished artwork are generally acceptable.
• Sporting Goods: Used sporting equipment, such as bicycles, skis, or golf clubs, provided they are clearly used and not brand new in original packaging.
• Jewelry: Items of personal adornment that are clearly used. Expensive jewelry may require additional documentation.

Items Subject to Import Duties:

The Canadian government levies import duties and taxes on goods that are considered new or unused. This aims to protect domestic industries and generate revenue. Items falling into this category include:

• New Furniture or Appliances: Unopened, brand new furniture or appliances will almost certainly be subject to duty.
• Unused Clothing or Footwear: Clothes and shoes still in their original packaging or with tags attached will be considered new and subject to duty.
• New Electronics: Unopened electronics are clearly considered new imports.
• Artwork and Collectibles purchased recently: Newly acquired artwork or collectibles may also incur duty, particularly if valuable.

Proving Ownership and Use:

To avoid delays and disputes at the border, it’s essential to provide clear evidence that your belongings are used personal effects. Consider keeping the following:

• Photos: Pictures of items in their previous setting can be invaluable proof.
• Receipts (Optional): While not always mandatory, receipts can help support claims of ownership, especially for higher-value items.
• Inventory List: A comprehensive list of all your belongings helps expedite the customs process.

Preparing for Your Move:

Before your move, research specific import regulations and duty rates. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website is an excellent resource. Proper documentation, clear evidence of ownership, and a well-organized inventory will significantly ease the process of importing your personal belongings to Canada. Remember, honesty and transparency are crucial for a smooth and stress-free transition to your new life in Canada.