Tips for Crossing the Canadian Border by Car
Dec 23, 2025
In:
Driving across the Canadian border
Whether you’re traveling to Canada or just passing through, being prepared to cross the border by car can make all the difference between a pleasant trip and a stressful one.
Let’s review the essentials for crossing the border, including required documents and customs declaration policies, so you’ll be ready to start the trip with ease.
Documentation required to drive from the U.S. into Canada
Before setting off, check your eligibility to enter Canada. The following documents are needed to cross into the country from the United States:
- Valid photo ID: Passport (recommended), passport card, enhanced driver’s license, birth certificate for minors
- For non-U.S. citizens, a Visa or eTA (if required for your country)
- Driver’s license (required for driver) and vehicle registration/insurance (Some insurers will issue a Canada non-resident proof of insurance)
- Travel explanation and declarations
- Valid rabies vaccination proof for pets older than 3 months
Are the documents the same to cross the U.S. border from Canada?
You’ll need most of the same documents when driving from Canada into the U.S. Visas are not required for Canadian citizens visiting the United States for less than six months. However, residents of countries other than the U.S. or Canada may need a visa.
A U.S. car insurance policy is required on vehicles entering the United States.
Does it cost money to cross the border?
There may be highway tolls, depending on the location of the crossing, or duty fees for items being transported. Tolls are typically less than $10 USD, while duty fees will vary based on the value of the imports/exports.
What if I’m moving rather than visiting?
Customs paperwork is more extensive when relocating, especially if you’re driving a rental truck across the Canadian border. Often, the easiest way to move is with a DIY service like U-Pack®. We’ll help with the paperwork to get your belongings to (or from) Canada so you can focus on traveling with your family.
Learn more about moving from the U.S. to Canada or from Canada to the U.S.
What to declare at the Canadian border
When you cross the border by car, you must declare some categories of items you’re traveling with.
Reference the chart below for some of the most common requirements.
| Category | Entering Canada | Entering the U.S. |
| Alcohol & Tobacco | Declare; Small duty-free amounts allowed | Declare; Small duty-free amounts allowed |
| Food | Varied but generally a bit more flexible | Often strict with produce, meat and dairy |
| Currency | Over CAD $10,000 must be declared | Declare currency over $10,000 USD |
| Gifts | Declare to determine duties | Declare to determine duties |
| Pets | Rabies proof if >3 months old | Rabies proof required |
| Weapons | Highly restricted; handguns usually prohibited | Highly restricted; some types not allowed |
Read more about moving pets to Canada.
Advice for easier border crossing
When planning to cross into or out of Canada, keep an eye on your gas tank since some crossings are remote. Then, follow these recommendations for the smoothest trip across the border:
- Be honest, polite and concise when answering questions
- Be prepared to state the purpose of your trip, including where you will stay overnight
- Comply with all border agent instructions
- Don’t fret if you’re asked to pull aside for further inspection — vehicle searches are common
- Keep all documents easily accessible
- Remove hats and sunglasses before speaking to officials
- Roll down the windows and turn off the radio while approaching the gate
Planning a move? U-Pack can help
U-Pack makes it easy to move to or from Canada. Call 844-362-5303844-594-3077 for your free, no-obligation quote or request one online.
Let us know in the comments if you have questions about U-Pack services or crossing the border. We’re happy to help.
Passing through Canada on your way to Alaska? Check out this Alaska moving guide.
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