Home Moving
Moving from Canada to the United States is an exciting step, but it comes with challenges that can easily be overlooked. Unlike local moves, cross-border relocations involve additional layers of preparation such as customs regulations, shipping restrictions, travel documents, and long-distance coordination. At CPM, we have guided many families, professionals, and students through this process and have seen recurring mistakes that slow down the move or increase costs.
By understanding these mistakes in advance, you can plan better, stay within budget, and make your arrival in the US as smooth as possible.
Underestimating the Planning Timeline
One of the most common mistakes is starting too late. While a local move might be possible to organize in a few weeks, a cross-border move requires more lead time because of customs paperwork, international transportation bookings, and coordination between your old and new homes. You also need time to gather important documents such as visas, work permits, and inventory lists for customs clearance.
Starting at least eight to twelve weeks ahead allows you to compare moving quotes, confirm availability with reputable companies, and prepare for any unexpected issues such as weather delays or changes in customs rules. Our Moving Checklist is a great resource to keep track of what needs to be done and when.
Choosing Movers Based Solely on Price
It’s natural to look for the most affordable option, but the cheapest moving quote is not always the best choice. Low prices can sometimes mean hidden fees for services like customs brokerage, handling delicate or oversized items, or fuel surcharges. Choosing the best mover should be about value and reliability, not just the initial number on the quote.
Look for international relocation movers with proven cross-border experience, proper licensing, and insurance coverage. Reviews and testimonials from past customers can reveal a lot about a company’s service quality.
Overlooking Accurate Customs Declarations
Customs clearance is one of the most important steps in moving from Canada to the US. Every item you bring must be declared according to US Customs and Border Protection rules. Some items, such as certain foods, plants, or firearms, have restrictions or require special permits. If you fail to declare these, you risk fines, confiscation, or even delays in receiving your shipment.
Working with a moving company that understands these rules ensures your paperwork is correct and complete. You will also need to provide an inventory list that matches your shipment exactly. The moving insurance guide can help you understand how coverage works in case customs inspections cause delays or handling issues.
Packing Everything Instead of Decluttering
Many people make mistake of packing their entire household for a cross-border move. This increases costs, creates unnecessary work, and can slow down customs inspections. The weight and volume of your shipment directly affect the price, so decluttering before you move can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Go through each room and separate what you truly need from what can be sold, donated, or recycled. Large furniture and outdated appliances often cost more to transport than to replace once you settle in the US. For more detailed planning, see our guide on long-distance move planning.
Overlooking Extra Expenses
The moving company’s quote is only part of your total relocation cost. You also need to budget for customs duties, currency exchange fees, travel costs for you and your family, temporary accommodations if your home is not ready, and utility setup at your new address. In some cases, you may also need to pay for vehicle importation, new license plates, or changes to insurance policies. It is a good idea to keep a contingency fund for these extra expenses so you are not caught off guard.
Settling for Basic Insurance
Many people assume the standard liability coverage included with moving services is enough. In reality, basic coverage often reimburses only a fraction of the value of your items if something is lost or damaged. For example, it might cover just sixty cents per pound, which is far less than what most electronics, antiques, or artwork are worth.
For valuable or irreplaceable belongings, full-value protection or a specialized insurance plan is worth the investment. This ensures that if an item is damaged, you can receive either a replacement or full compensation.
Attempting a Full DIY Cross-Border Move
Handling a local move yourself can work in some situations, but a cross-border move is much more complex. You would need to manage customs paperwork, book international transport, handle the logistics of pickup and delivery, and navigate possible delays. Even small mistakes can cause significant setbacks at the border.
A professional Canada to US moving company not only handles these logistics but also helps you avoid common pitfalls.
Why CPM Makes Moving Across the Border Easier
At CPM, we have years of experience in cross-border relocations, helping clients move between Canada and the US without unnecessary stress. We offer:
- Licensed and insured international moving services
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Eco-conscious packing options
- Flexible and secure storage solutions
Ready to Move with Confidence?
Avoiding these mistakes can save you money, time, and unnecessary stress. Whether you are looking for affordable cross-border moving or full-service international relocation services, CPM has the expertise to make it happen. Request your quote today to start planning your move with confidence.