Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Toronto, Ontario

Importing a car from the USA to Canada involves costs like the RIV fee (around $325 CAD), GST/HST, potential $100 AC tax, transport fees (often $800-$2,500+), and mandatory provincial inspections/modifications, with total costs often ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars beyond the car's value, depending on shipping, province, and vehicle age. Key costs are the RIV fee, GST (5%), AC excise tax, transport, safety/emissions inspections, and possible compliance modifications (like daytime running lights or km displays).

Shipping by train is often cheaper than by truck, especially for long distances or when using Amtrak's limited routes, offering significant savings and protection from the elements, though trucks provide more direct, faster, and widely available service, with the final cost depending on route, timing, and carrier. Train travel is ideal for budget-conscious shippers who aren't in a hurry and can use the specific Amtrak corridor (DC to Orlando) or other rail-based services, while trucks suit those needing broader coverage and quicker delivery.

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances, but for long cross-country moves, the cost difference shrinks, and shipping can become comparable or even cheaper once you factor in gas, lodging, food, wear-and-tear, and your time, making the decision depend on distance, vehicle, your schedule, and budget. Driving saves money on carrier fees but adds wear on your car, while shipping costs more upfront but saves time, fuel, and stress.