Car/Vehicle Shipping Cost from Santa Ana, California to Toronto, Ontario

Driving is usually cheaper for shorter distances (under 500 miles), but for long cross-country moves (over 1,000 miles), shipping can become comparable or even cheaper when factoring in your time, food, lodging, and significant vehicle wear-and-tear, making driving less cost-effective despite lower upfront gas costs. The decision balances direct fuel savings against the hidden costs and time commitment of a long drive, with shipping offering convenience and preserving your car's mileage and condition.

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).

The cheapest way to ship a car is by using an open transport carrier, choosing terminal-to-terminal service, booking in the off-season, allowing flexible pickup/delivery times, and comparing quotes from multiple companies like those found on platforms such as uShip or Shiply * *, though you should be wary of rock-bottom prices that might signal poor service.