⚡ Quick Answer: How do I ship heavy machinery to Canada from the USA?
Canada-bound heavy machinery commonly includes excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, telehandlers, forklifts and agricultural equipment. Depending on origin and destination, machinery may move by truck directly across the U.S.–Canada border or by ocean to Canadian ports. Customs, taxes and equipment compliance should be confirmed before movement.
USA → CANADA HEAVY MACHINERY SHIPPING
Canada is different from most international heavy-machinery destinations because many shipments can move directly overland from the United States rather than by ocean. All TransportDepot coordinates excavators, loaders, dozers, telehandlers, forklifts and farm equipment from U.S. sellers to Canadian destinations, choosing truck or ocean routing according to pickup location, machine dimensions and final province. Oversized equipment may require specialized permits and route planning.
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Heavy Machinery Shipping Calculator
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Canada Ports & Heavy Machinery Gateways
Many U.S.–Canada machinery shipments move overland, but major ports also serve ocean/project cargo.
U.S.–Canada Land Border
Primary route for many machines moving by heavy-haul truck into Canada.
Vancouver
Major west-coast gateway for project and international cargo.
Halifax / Montreal
Eastern gateways useful for selected ocean and project shipments.
Canada Customs & Import Rules for Heavy Machinery
Imports generally require customs documentation, commercial invoices, tariff classification and applicable GST/HST or duties where relevant. Roadable equipment, emissions, safety or provincial registration requirements may apply depending on the machine. The importer and customs broker should confirm current Canadian requirements before movement.
How to Prepare Heavy Machinery for Shipping to Canada
- Confirm year, make, model, serial number, exact dimensions and operating weight.
- Clean the machine and remove soil, vegetation, debris and excessive grease.
- Repair active oil, fuel, coolant or hydraulic leaks.
- Secure buckets, blades, forks, booms and detachable accessories.
- For RORO, verify the machine starts, steers and brakes.
- Photograph the equipment before pickup and terminal handover.
Documents Required for Heavy Machinery Shipping to Canada
U.S. Export Documents
- Commercial invoice or bill of sale
- Ownership/title evidence when applicable
- Year, make, model and serial number
- Dimensions, weight and condition
- Exporter and consignee information
- AES / EEI when required
- Carrier and terminal forms
Canada Arrival Documents
- Commercial invoice and transport document
- Importer / broker information
- HS classification and customs declaration
- Permits, inspections, conformity or registration documents where required
- Proof of applicable duties/taxes paid before release where required
Types of Heavy Machinery We Ship to Canada
Excavators
Construction.
Wheel Loaders
Aggregate.
Bulldozers
Site work.
Telehandlers
Construction.
Forklifts
Logistics.
Agricultural Equipment
Farming.
Popular Heavy Machinery for Canada Projects
| Type | Brands / Models | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Excavators | CAT 320, Komatsu PC210 | Construction |
| Wheel Loaders | CAT 950, Volvo L90 | Aggregate |
| Bulldozers | CAT D6 | Site work |
| Telehandlers | JCB, Manitou | Construction |
| Forklifts | Toyota, Hyster | Logistics |
| Tractors | John Deere, Case IH | Agriculture |
Heavy Equipment Shipping Methods
When shipping heavy equipment, you can choose between RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off), container shipping, or breakbulk/flat rack options. The best method depends on the equipment type, size, weight, budget, and the level of protection or handling required during transit.
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
Best for drivable machinery
- Drive-on, drive-off convenience
- CAT loaders, dump trucks, tractors
- Most cost-effective option
Container Shipping
Good for compact machinery
- Full container, maximum security
- Space for cars, machinery, or items
- Weather-protected and safe
Breakbulk / Flat Rack Shipping
Designed for oversized heavy equipment
- Suitable for large excavators and cranes
- Custom lifting and secure stowage
- Get full protection for your vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions About Shipping Heavy Machinery to Canada
What information is needed for a quote?
Send year, make, model, serial number, dimensions, operating weight, running condition, pickup ZIP code, destination and photos.
Can non-running equipment be shipped?
Yes. Non-running machinery may require towing, lifting, flat rack or breakbulk handling.
Which shipping method is best?
It depends on size, condition, port service and final destination. RORO, container, flat rack and breakbulk are all possible.
Should import rules be checked before sailing?
Yes. Confirm customs eligibility, duties/taxes, standards, permits and importer requirements before export.
Explore the North America Heavy Machinery Shipping hub or return to our Heavy Machinery Shipping Services hub.
Ruth Kendi serves as International Logistics Coordinator with All TransportDepot Inc., an FMC-licensed and bonded NVOCC (License No. 021693). She supports commercial machinery, RoRo, container shipping, export coordination, port planning, and destination logistics, helping organize the documentation, carrier requirements, cargo specifications, and delivery details involved in international shipments. All TransportDepot Inc. provides ocean freight and export logistics services from the United States to destinations worldwide.