Moving to the United States from Canada
Moving to the USA from Canada is a significant life decision that involves immigration requirements, U.S. Customs regulations, and carefully coordinated logistics. Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, understanding the process is critical to avoiding delays, fines, or complications at the border.
At Orbit International Moving, we specialize exclusively in Canada–U.S. relocations. With over 22 years of hands-on experience and hundreds of cross-border moves completed each year, our team understands exactly what it takes to move legally, efficiently, and without stress.
Our Relocation Services
Personalized Cross-Border Moving Solutions
Every move to the USA is different. From your first consultation, we tailor your relocation plan based on your timeline, destination, immigration status, and household inventory. This ensures a smooth, fully customized moving experience from Canada to the United States.
Full-Service Packing & Organized Delivery
Our professional movers carefully pack your belongings and organize them by room, making unloading and unpacking at your new U.S. home simple and efficient. We handle your shipment with precision to meet all U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requirements.
Reliable, Professional, and On Time
You can count on our experienced cross-border movers to arrive on schedule and deliver your belongings safely. We prioritize clear communication, accountability, and professionalism at every step of your move.
Proven Customer Satisfaction
Our reputation is built on successful Canada–U.S. relocations and satisfied clients. We go the extra mile to ensure your move to the United States is handled with care, transparency, and attention to detail.
U.S. Customs Rules for Household Goods When Moving to the USA
When moving to the USA from Canada, your household goods must comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. Understanding how your shipment is classified and what documentation is required is essential to avoid delays at the border.
Most shipments are cleared using a standard set of U.S. customs forms along with a detailed inventory in English. Your inventory must accurately list your belongings and reflect what is being transported, as customs officers rely on this information during the clearance process.
What Qualifies as Household Goods
Your items are typically considered personal household goods if they are used belongings intended for your continued personal use in the United States—not for resale or commercial purposes. This includes furniture, clothing, and everyday personal effects that have been owned and used prior to your move.
Documentation and Customs Coordination
Orbit International Moving ensures your shipment is properly prepared for cross-border transport and coordinates logistics so your documentation aligns with current U.S. customs requirements. While we do not act as your customs broker or provide legal customs clearance services, we help ensure your shipment is organized correctly to support a smooth process.
Important: Final Decisions Are Made by U.S. Customs
All inspections, duties, and entry approvals are determined solely by U.S. Customs at the port of entry. Even with proper preparation, customs officers may inspect shipments or request additional information.
Why This Matters When Moving to the USA
Incorrect documentation or improperly declared goods are one of the most common causes of delays when moving to the United States. Working with an experienced cross-border mover helps reduce risk and ensures your shipment meets expected standards before it reaches the border.
What You Can and Cannot Ship When Moving to the USA
When moving to the USA from Canada, most used household goods are allowed to enter duty-free, but certain items are restricted, regulated, or prohibited by U.S. authorities. Understanding what you can and cannot ship is critical to avoiding delays, inspections, or unexpected costs at the border.
Common Household Goods That Are Allowed
In most cases, you can ship used personal belongings intended for your own ongoing use, including:
- Furniture and home goods
- Clothing and personal items
- Appliances (subject to compliance requirements)
- Books, décor, and everyday household effects
These items must be owned and used prior to your move and cannot be intended for resale.
Restricted and High-Risk Items
Some items are closely regulated or may not be allowed in your shipment, including:
- Food, pantry items, and perishables
- Alcohol (including wine and spirits)
- Plants, seeds, and soil-based items
- Firearms and weapons
- Medications (especially controlled substances)
- Hazardous or dangerous goods
- Ivory, animal products, or wildlife-related items
Including these items in your shipment can result in customs inspections, delays, additional fees, or seizure by U.S. authorities.
Shipping Alcohol to the United States
Shipping alcohol is legally complex and varies by state. If included, you must provide:
- FDA Prior Notice
- Number of bottles/cans
- Type and alcohol content
- Manufacturer and country of origin
- Value per bottle
- Signed statement confirming, it is for personal use, not for resale
We strongly recommend speaking with your state liquor authority before shipping alcohol.
Firearms & Ammunition
Firearms and ammunition are heavily regulated. In many cases you must obtain an approved ATF import permit (such as ATF Form 6 or 6NIA), which can take 4–6 weeks or more to process, and you may need proof of prior lawful export for certain U.S. origin firearms.
Without proper documentation, firearms should not be shipped.
Important Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or immigration advice. Always confirm requirements with U.S. government agencies or qualified professionals.
For more information, please read the FIDI Customs Guide (USA Imports)
Updated on: 2026-03-30