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FIDI Certified Partners
International removals from the UK to Canada require specialist knowledge of transatlantic shipping, customs regulations, and Canadian import requirements. Whether you're moving from London to Toronto, Manchester to Vancouver, or Edinburgh to Montreal, professional removal companies certified by BAR and FIDI handle everything from UK collection to Canadian delivery. A typical 3-bedroom house removal from the UK to Canada costs £3,500-£7,200 and takes 4-6 weeks by sea freight, depending on your destination city and volume (measured in cubic metres).
We are an official online platform representing three BAR-accredited, FIDI-certified international moving companies (AGM Group). We match you with the right partner mover based on your specific route—whether you're moving from the UK to any major Canadian city or from Canada back to the UK—and your timeline and requirements. Your matched moving company handles everything: the physical survey, professional packing, shipping logistics, customs documentation support, and final delivery to your new home.
Unlike local moves with hourly rates, international removals to and from Canada are priced by volume. Your belongings are measured in cubic metres (m³), and this determines your shipping cost. A standard 20-foot container holds approximately 30-35m³, suitable for a 3-bedroom house.
The final price depends on several factors that make each move unique. Your volume of goods is the primary cost driver. Additional services like professional packing, furniture disassembly, and specialist handling for items like pianos or antiques add to the total. The time of year matters too, with summer months (May-September) typically busier and sometimes pricier.
Access at both properties affects cost. If your UK or Canadian home has difficult parking, narrow stairs, or requires a long carry from the lorry, expect additional charges. The same applies at your destination. Storage needs, either before shipping or upon arrival, will also increase costs.
15-20m³
Shared container (groupage) recommended. Includes furniture, kitchen items, personal belongings, some boxes.
30-35m³
Full 20ft container suitable. All rooms, garage items, garden furniture, family belongings.
50-65m³
40ft container needed. Large family home, basement items, workshop tools, extensive belongings.
Don't forget hidden items: Loft storage, garage shelves, garden sheds, basement boxes, cupboard contents, and seasonal items (Christmas decorations, sports equipment, camping gear). These forgotten items add 20-30% to most initial estimates.
Professional international moving companies need specific details to provide accurate estimates. Vague information leads to provisional quotes that change later, causing frustration and budget problems.
We provide comprehensive removals services to all major Canadian cities and regions. Whether you're moving to bustling metropolitan areas or quieter communities, our network of BAR and FIDI-certified partners ensures professional, reliable service across Canada.
Montreal, Quebec's largest city and a major hub for UK expats, welcomes thousands of British families each year. Our international removals service to Montreal includes full customs clearance support for Quebec-specific requirements, delivery across Greater Montreal (including Laval, Longueuil), and bilingual service coordination. Transit time: 4-6 weeks door-to-door. Read our complete Montreal removals guide.
Toronto is Canada's largest city and the #1 destination for UK relocations. As Ontario's capital and economic centre, Toronto attracts British professionals, families, and retirees. We serve all GTA areas including Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, and Vaughan. Our Toronto service includes professional unpacking, furniture assembly, and same-day delivery coordination. Transit time: 4-6 weeks. Get your Toronto removal quote.
Ottawa, Canada's capital city, is a popular choice for UK civil servants, diplomats, and professionals seeking a stable, bilingual environment. Our Ottawa removals service covers the entire National Capital Region, including Gatineau (Quebec side), with expert handling of government-related relocations and bilingual documentation support. Transit time: 4-6 weeks. Get your Ottawa removal quote.
Vancouver offers stunning natural beauty and a mild climate, making it a top choice for UK families. Our Vancouver service accounts for the longer Pacific route via the Panama Canal (5-7 weeks total), with expert handling of moisture-sensitive items and seamless delivery across Metro Vancouver, including North Shore, Burnaby, and Richmond. Get your Vancouver removal quote.
Calgary's strong economy and proximity to the Rocky Mountains attract many UK professionals. Our Calgary removals service includes efficient transport from eastern Canadian ports, with specialized handling for winter gear and outdoor equipment. Transit time: 5-6 weeks. Get your Calgary removal quote.
This is the question many people ask but few removal companies address honestly. Sometimes buying new furniture in Canada makes more financial sense than paying for international removals. Here's the actual comparison to help you decide.
Total Cost: £5,800
Timeline: 5-7 weeks door-to-door
Benefits: Keep sentimental items, family heirlooms, specialty items difficult to replace, books and personal collections
Best for: People with valuable antiques, extensive book collections, specialty tools or equipment, strong emotional attachment to furniture
Total Cost: £4,950
YOU SAVE: £850
Timeline: Immediate furniture, essentials arrive in 5-7 weeks
Benefits: Brand new furniture suited to Canadian homes, modern energy-efficient appliances, immediate availability, no shipping damage risk
Best for: People with mostly IKEA-style furniture, standard appliances incompatible with Canadian voltage, modern replaceable items
Sometimes not shipping everything is actually the smarter move financially. We tell you this even though it means less business for moving companies. This honesty helps you make the right choice for your situation.
Consider shipping: Antiques, family heirlooms, specialty tools or equipment, extensive book collections, artwork, musical instruments, items with sentimental value, things difficult or impossible to replace, bereavement personal effects.
Consider buying new in Canada: Standard bedroom furniture (beds, wardrobes, dressers), sofas and living room furniture (unless high-end or antique), dining tables and chairs (unless antique), white goods and appliances (voltage differences make this essential), garden furniture (exposed to different climate).
Your residential status when moving to Canada determines your customs treatment, tax liability, and required documentation. Getting this wrong causes serious delays, unexpected charges, or even legal problems.
Who qualifies: Canadian citizens who lived abroad (including UK) for at least 12 consecutive months and are now returning permanently to live in Canada.
Duty-Free Import (Form BSF186): You can import your used household goods and personal belongings duty-free and GST-free if you meet specific conditions.
Requirements for duty-free import:
Documents needed: Canadian passport or PR card, proof of residence abroad (lease agreements, utility bills covering 12+ months), proof of new Canadian residence, detailed inventory with purchase dates.
Duty-free benefit: Potentially save thousands in import duties and GST (5%) on goods value.
Who this covers: British citizens or other foreign nationals relocating to Canada for work, study, or permanent residence.
Duty-free import availability: Yes, foreign nationals can claim duty-free import if moving to Canada for the first time or after living elsewhere for 12+ months.
Key differences: You must provide additional proof of your right to reside in Canada (work visa, study permit, spousal visa, or permanent residency documents).
Requirements:
Documents needed: Passport, Canadian visa/residence permit, proof of address abroad (12+ months), proof of Canadian address, employment letter or university acceptance (if applicable), detailed inventory.
Common mistake: Arriving on tourist visa then trying to import household goods. This fails duty-free requirements and triggers full duties and taxes.
Who this covers: Employees relocated to Canada by their employer (company transfer from UK office to Canadian office, for example).
Duty-free import: Yes, corporate relocations qualify if the employee meets residential requirements, even though the company may pay for the move.
Hybrid rules apply: Mix of duty-free import for personal belongings plus potential company-paid shipping for work equipment.
Requirements:
Documents needed: All standard duty-free documents plus employer relocation letter, employment contract, company letterhead confirmation, visa sponsored by Canadian employer.
Tax consideration: If your employer pays for your move, this might be taxable as a benefit-in-kind. Consult a Canadian tax advisor.
Don't lie on customs declarations. Making false duty-free import claims is customs fraud under Canadian law.
What happens if you get caught:
Common illegal schemes to avoid: Claiming 12 months abroad when you've only been in UK for 6 months, backdating purchase receipts to meet the 6-month use requirement, claiming items are "used personal effects" when they're actually new commercial goods, having a Canadian friend claim your shipment under their eligibility.
International removals scams cost people in the UK and Canada millions every year. These aren't vague warnings. These are specific tricks that fraudulent companies use, based on what actual victims have reported to trading standards and consumer protection agencies.
The scam: Company quotes £3,500 for UK to Toronto removals. Your goods arrive at Canadian port. Suddenly they demand an additional £800-£1,500 for "customs broker fees" before releasing your belongings.
How it works: They claim these fees are normal, mandatory, or required by Canadian customs. In reality, customs clearance is usually included in professional removal quotes, and the charges are grossly inflated.
Real victim example: "We were quoted £4,200 all-inclusive UK to Montreal. When our container arrived in Halifax, they demanded £1,200 extra for 'port handling and customs broker' before they'd release our furniture. We had no choice but to pay."
How to protect yourself:
The scam: When you ask specific questions about customs forms, insurance coverage, or delivery timelines, they give vague answers like "don't worry, we handle everything" or "trust us, we've done this thousands of times."
Warning signs:
Real victim example: "I asked which Canadian port my container would arrive at and what customs documents I needed to provide. They kept saying 'we'll sort all that out' but never gave specifics. Turned out they weren't even registered customs brokers and my shipment sat in port for 3 weeks."
How legitimate companies respond: Professional international movers explain every form (Bill of Lading, BSF186 application, inventory declaration). They detail the process. They provide Canadian office details, partner company names, and depot addresses. They encourage questions and provide written answers.
The scam: Before you've signed any contract or received a written quote, they ask for passport copies, National Insurance numbers, banking details, or other sensitive identity documents.
Specific tactics:
Real victim example: "They asked for my passport and UK driving licence copies before giving me a price. I stupidly sent them. Months later I discovered someone had tried to open a Canadian bank account using my identity. The 'moving company' had disappeared."
Legitimate timeline for documents:
How to protect yourself: Never provide passport copies, national ID, or banking details before signing a written contract with a BAR-accredited removal company whose registration you've independently verified.
Impossible claims that indicate a scam:
"Guaranteed 3-week door-to-door UK to Canada"
Reality: Sea freight alone takes 14-28 days. Add collection, consolidation, customs, and inland transport = 4-7 weeks minimum. Anyone promising 3 weeks is lying.
"We guarantee zero customs duty"
Reality: No removal company can guarantee this. Only CBSA determines duty liability based on your specific circumstances. Legitimate companies help you qualify for duty-free import but cannot guarantee outcomes.
"You don't need to be in Canada for customs clearance"
Reality: For most duty-free claims, you need to provide original documents and possibly attend customs in person. Remote clearance is only possible in limited circumstances.
"We can ship prohibited items, no problem"
Reality: Shipping restricted or prohibited goods (certain plants, foodstuffs, weapons) is illegal. Companies offering this are criminals, and you could face prosecution.
Real victim example: "They promised our stuff would arrive in 2 weeks, 'guaranteed'. We'd already given notice on our UK flat and had nowhere to live. Seven weeks later our belongings finally arrived. The 'guarantee' was worthless — just marketing lies."
How to verify claims: Ask for the specific shipping line, vessel schedule, and written timeline breakdown. Contact the shipping line directly to verify schedules. Check if promises are in the written contract or just verbal sales talk.
Check these accreditations independently:
Warning about fake logos: Scammers copy accreditation logos onto their websites. Always verify certificate numbers directly on the official accreditation body's website, not just by seeing a logo.
Industry accreditations aren't just marketing badges. They represent independently verified standards, regular audits, and consumer protection mechanisms. Here's what each major accreditation actually involves and how it protects you.
Global Quality Standard
What it is: FAIM (FIDI Accredited International Mover) is the ONLY worldwide quality standard specifically for international moving and relocation companies.
Who audits: EY (Ernst & Young), one of the "Big Four" accounting firms, conducts all FAIM audits. This is independent, professional verification — not self-certification.
Audit frequency: Every 3 years, companies must be re-audited to maintain accreditation. Annual surveillance audits ensure ongoing compliance.
What's audited:
Consumer benefit: FAIM companies meet measurable quality standards verified by independent auditors. They have proper insurance, trained staff, and documented procedures.
Verify at: www.fidi.org - search provider directory
UK Legal Protection
What it is: British Association of Removers — the UK's professional trade association for domestic and international removal companies.
Consumer protection: BAR members must participate in the Furniture Ombudsman Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme. This is a legal requirement under UK consumer protection law.
What this means for you: If you have a dispute with a BAR member that can't be resolved directly, you can escalate to the independent Furniture Ombudsman at no cost to you.
Ombudsman powers: Can award compensation up to £25,000 against the removal company. Decisions are binding on the company but not on you (you can still pursue legal action if unsatisfied).
Requirements for BAR membership:
Consumer benefit: Legal recourse if things go wrong. Financial protection. Verified insurance coverage. Professional standards enforcement.
Verify at: www.bar.co.uk - member search
Global Network
What it is: International Association of Movers — the worldwide network of professional international moving and relocation companies.
Membership benefits: IAM members specialise in complex international routes. They have established partnerships in destination countries, critical for smooth UK-Canada moves.
Vetting process:
Why this matters: IAM membership indicates a company has proven international experience, financial stability to handle large shipments, established relationships with overseas partners, and commitment to professional standards.
Consumer benefit: Route-specific expertise for UK-Canada moves. Reliable partner networks. Financial accountability. Professional reputation to maintain.
Verify at: www.iamovers.org - member directory
International moves mean paying in both British Pounds and Canadian Dollars. Understanding when you pay in which currency, and how to get decent exchange rates, can save you hundreds of pounds.
Typical UK-side costs: 30-40% of total move cost for collection, packing, and UK services.
Typical Canada-side costs: 60-70% of total move cost for shipping, customs, and Canadian delivery.
Don't use your bank for currency exchange. Traditional banks charge 3-5% in hidden exchange rate markups plus fees. Specialist currency services are much better.
Recommended currency services:
Timing strategy: Monitor GBP/CAD exchange rates when planning your move. If the Pound is strong against the Canadian Dollar, pay more upfront in GBP. If the Canadian Dollar is strong, negotiate to pay more on the Canada side.
Example of savings: On a £5,000 removal quote:
Cash requirements in Canada: Have CAD$200-300 equivalent available when your shipment delivers. This covers tipping the delivery crew (CAD$20-40 is customary for good service), immediate expenses in your new home, and any unexpected costs.
Understanding the difference between shared containers and dedicated containers helps you pick the most cost-effective option for your UK to Canada move.
Part load (shared container): Your belongings share a container with other people's stuff heading to Canada. Most economical for smaller moves (under 20m³). Typically saves you 30-50% compared to having your own container.
Dedicated container: The whole 20ft or 40ft container is just for your belongings. Better for larger moves (25m³+) or when you need faster, more controlled shipping.
Best for:
Advantages:
Considerations:
Typical timeline: 5-7 weeks UK to Canada door-to-door
Price range: £1,800-£3,500 for 15m³ (1-bed flat)
Best for:
Advantages:
Considerations:
Typical timeline: 4-6 weeks UK to Canada door-to-door
Price range: £3,800-£7,200 for 20ft container (30-35m³)
Choose part load if: Your move is under 25m³, you have some flexibility on dates (2-3 week window), and cost is your priority. This covers most 1-2 bedroom moves from UK to Canada.
Choose dedicated container if: Your move exceeds 30m³, you need specific shipping dates, you have valuable antiques or very fragile items, or your employer is paying. This suits most 3+ bedroom house moves.
Air freight option: For urgent small shipments (under 2m³), air freight from UK to Canada takes 5-10 days but costs 3-5 times more than sea freight. Only economical for critical items you need immediately (work equipment, essential documents, few boxes of urgent belongings).
About 30% of people who contact us are moving from Canada to the United Kingdom. This includes British expats returning home, Canadians relocating, or international moves for work or family.
UK customs: HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) handles your shipment clearance. Returning UK residents qualify for duty-free import of used household goods under Transfer of Residence (ToR) relief.
Eligibility for ToR relief:
Documents needed for UK customs: UK passport or visa, proof of residence in Canada (12+ months of tenancy/bills), detailed inventory with values, evidence of ownership (receipts for valuable items), completed ToR application.
Canadian departure: No export duties when leaving Canada with personal belongings. Simple export declaration process.
Departure ports in Canada: Port of Montreal (most common for eastern Canada), Port of Halifax, Port of Vancouver (for western Canada via Panama Canal).
Arrival ports in UK: Felixstowe, Southampton, Liverpool, London Gateway, Tilbury depending on your UK destination.
Timeline Canada to UK: Collection in Canada (1-2 days) + transport to port (1-5 days) + sea freight (14-28 days) + UK customs (1-5 days) + inland transport to UK home (1-3 days) + final delivery (1 day) = 4-7 weeks total door-to-door.
Distance considerations: Montreal to UK is direct Atlantic crossing (14-21 days). Vancouver to UK goes via Panama Canal (21-28 days).
Our international removals service between the UK and Canada provides end-to-end support for families, professionals, and retirees relocating across the Atlantic. From initial consultation in London, Manchester, Birmingham, or Edinburgh to final delivery in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, or beyond, our BAR and FIDI-certified partners manage every detail. We handle the complexities of transatlantic logistics, Canadian customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery so you can focus on your new life in Canada. Whether you're moving a studio flat or a five-bedroom house, our volume-based pricing ensures transparency and fairness.
When choosing removal companies for your UK to Canada move, accreditation is non-negotiable. All our partner companies hold both BAR (British Association of Removers) and FIDI-FAIM certification—the gold standard in international moving. This means they've passed independent audits by Ernst & Young, maintain minimum £10 million insurance, and comply with both UK and Canadian regulations. Every mover we work with specialises in transatlantic routes and has established partnerships with Canadian delivery networks, ensuring your belongings are handled by experts from door to door.
Our network of international movers operating between the UK and Canada all hold both BAR (British Association of Removers) and FIDI-FAIM accreditation. This means they've passed independent audits by Ernst & Young, maintain minimum £10 million insurance, and comply with both UK and Canadian regulations. Every mover we work with specialises in transatlantic routes and has established partnerships with Canadian delivery networks, ensuring seamless service from British collection to Canadian delivery.
International removal costs from the UK to Canada are determined by volume (cubic metres), not fixed prices. A typical 1-bedroom flat (15-20m³) costs £1,800-£3,200 for shared container shipping. A 3-bedroom house (30-35m³) costs £3,500-£7,200 for dedicated container shipping. Factors affecting price include packing services (full pack vs self-pack), access at both properties, insurance level, storage requirements, and specific destination in Canada.
Request written quotes from at least two BAR-accredited moving companies to compare. Ensure quotes specify door-to-door service, all customs fees, insurance coverage, and any possible additional charges.
Standard sea freight from the UK to Canada takes 4-7 weeks for complete door-to-door service. Eastern Canada (Toronto, Montreal, Halifax) typically takes 4-6 weeks. Western Canada (Vancouver, Victoria) takes 5-7 weeks due to the Pacific route via Panama Canal. This includes UK collection (1-2 days), transport to port and consolidation (2-5 days), ocean shipping (14-28 days), Canadian customs clearance (1-5 days), inland transport (1-3 days), and final delivery (1 day).
Peak season moves (May-September) can add 1-2 weeks. Remote Canadian destinations may add 2-3 days. Air freight takes 5-10 days but costs 3-5 times more than sea freight and only suits small urgent shipments under 2m³.
Most people qualify for duty-free import of used household goods when moving to Canada as a returning resident or new immigrant. You must meet specific requirements: owned and used the goods abroad for at least 6 months, importing within reasonable time of establishing residence. Required documents include passport, proof of residence abroad (minimum 12 months), proof of Canadian residence, detailed inventory with purchase dates, and evidence of ownership.
Your removal company will help prepare the necessary customs paperwork (Form BSF186), but you must provide the supporting documents. If you don't qualify for duty-free import, you'll pay applicable duties and GST (5%) on the declared value of your goods.
Yes, vehicle shipping from the UK to Canada is possible through specialist car shipping services (separate from household goods removals). However, importing a car from UK to Canada involves significant complexity and cost. The vehicle must meet Canadian safety and emissions standards, and you'll need to pay GST/HST (5-15% depending on province) and possibly import duty (6.1% for non-US vehicles).
Costs include shipping (£800-£1,500), Canadian compliance modifications (£500-£2,000), import duty (6.1% if applicable), GST/HST (5-15%), and Canadian registration (£100-£300). Most people find it more economical to sell their car in the UK and buy a Canadian vehicle upon arrival, especially considering the left-hand drive configuration. Consult specialist vehicle importers for detailed advice specific to your car.
Prohibited items (illegal to ship): Firearms and ammunition (without special licenses), illegal drugs and substances, endangered species products, counterfeit goods, explosive or flammable materials, and radioactive materials.
Restricted items (require permits or special handling): Prescription medications (personal use only with documentation), plants and seeds (require phytosanitary certificates), food products (strict CFIA regulations), alcohol and tobacco (duty payable, quantity limits), pets (require separate pet travel services with health certificates).
Items generally not recommended: Perishable foods, pressurised containers (aerosols, gas cylinders), valuable documents (send separately via tracked courier), cash or monetary instruments (bank transfer instead), hazardous materials (batteries, chemicals, paints).
Your removal company will provide a complete prohibited and restricted items list. Shipping prohibited items can result in confiscation, fines, criminal charges, and your entire shipment being refused entry to Canada.
Yes, insurance is essential for international removals from the UK to Canada. Ocean shipping, multiple handling points, and long-distance road transport all create risk of damage or loss. Most removal companies offer tiered insurance options.
Basic cover (usually included): Limited liability based on weight (often £10-£20 per kilogram). This is inadequate for most household goods — a 20kg TV worth £800 would only be covered for £200-£400 under basic weight-based cover.
All-risks insurance (recommended): Covers full declared value of your goods against accidental damage, theft, fire, and most risks during transit. Typical cost is 2-4% of declared value (e.g., £200-£400 to insure £10,000 of belongings). Excess/deductible typically £100-£250.
What insurance doesn't cover: Inadequate packing (if you self-pack), items you didn't declare, normal wear and tear, inherent defects, damage from improper preparation (e.g., not draining washing machine).
Always photograph valuable items before shipping and keep receipts as proof of value. Read the insurance policy carefully to understand exclusions and claim procedures.
Professional packing (we recommend this for international moves): Trained packers use proper materials and techniques. They know how to pack fragile items and use industry-standard methods. Your insurance stays valid (most policies need professional packing for full coverage). It saves time (packing a 3-bed house takes professionals 1 day, takes you 2-3 weeks). Everything gets protected properly for ocean shipping. The inventory is accurate for customs.
Typical professional packing costs: £800-£1,500 for 3-bedroom house, depending on quantity of fragile items and special requirements.
Self-packing (saves money but has risks): You can save £500-£1,200 by doing it yourself, but watch out. Your insurance might not cover self-packed items if something breaks. You need to get the right packing materials. If you pack things wrong, they can get damaged during the ocean journey. If your inventory isn't accurate, you might have customs problems.
Hybrid approach (best value for most people): Get professionals to pack fragile stuff (china, glassware, artwork, electronics, antiques) and pack the rest yourself (clothes, books, linens, things that can't really break). Usually costs £300-£600 and gives you insurance protection for valuable items while saving money on the easy stuff.
Yes, professional removal companies provide tracking at key milestones. You'll receive updates when goods are collected in the UK, when container is loaded for shipping (with Bill of Lading reference number), when vessel departs UK, estimated arrival at Canadian port, when customs clearance begins, when goods clear Canadian customs, when shipment is loaded for Canadian delivery, and delivery scheduling confirmation.
For ocean freight, you can track the vessel itself using the Bill of Lading number or container number on shipping line websites (Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, etc.). This shows the ship's current location and estimated port arrival. However, exact location of your specific goods within the container isn't trackable.
Best practice: Your removal company should proactively update you at each stage. If you don't hear updates for 7+ days during the shipping phase, contact them for a progress report. Reputable companies maintain communication throughout the 4-7 week journey.
This is a common concern, especially if your Canadian housing isn't confirmed yet. Most removal companies offer temporary storage solutions in Canada. Your goods clear customs and are then stored in a secure warehouse facility until you're ready for delivery.
Free storage period: Some companies include 2-4 weeks free storage as standard. Verify this in your written quote.
Extended storage costs: After the free period, expect CAD$25-50 per cubic metre per week, depending on location and facility. For a 30m³ shipment, that's CAD$750-1,500 per week.
Storage limitations: Maximum storage periods typically 3-6 months. Some items (plants, certain foods if somehow shipped) can't be stored. You need insurance coverage during storage period. Retrieval from storage incurs additional delivery charges (CAD$300-700 depending on distance).
Best practice: Time your UK collection date to align with your confirmed Canadian housing availability, allowing for the 4-7 week shipping window plus 1-2 weeks buffer. If uncertain about Canadian housing, budget for 4-6 weeks storage in your removal costs.
Get multiple written quotes: Request detailed quotes from at least 2-3 companies. Ensure each quote specifies door-to-door service scope, exact volume allocation, insurance coverage level, all customs and documentation fees, storage terms (free period if any), and any access or additional charges.
Verify accreditations independently: Check BAR membership at www.bar.co.uk (ensures UK consumer protection and ADR access). Verify FIDI/FAIM certification at www.fidi.org (global quality standard audited by EY). Confirm IAM membership at www.iamovers.org (international expertise and financial vetting).
Read reviews carefully: Look for reviews specifically about UK-Canada or Canada-UK moves (not just general reviews). Check Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and Furniture Ombudsman records. Pay attention to how companies respond to negative reviews (shows customer service attitude).
Ask specific questions: Which Canadian port will my shipment use? What's your average UK-Canada timeline? What happens if there are delays? What's included in customs clearance? Do you have a Canadian depot or use a partner? What's your claims process if damage occurs?
Warning signs to avoid: Quotes significantly cheaper than others (often indicates hidden charges later), unwillingness to provide written quote before deposit, pressure to book immediately, evasive answers about accreditations, can't provide Canadian office details or partner company name.
Pet relocation to Canada requires advance planning. Dogs and cats need a current rabies vaccination certificate issued within 30 days of travel. No quarantine is required for pets meeting health requirements. Airlines have specific pet policies and crate requirements.
Additional requirements may include microchipping, health certificates from a veterinarian within 10 days of travel, and specific airline-approved travel crates. Some provinces have additional requirements (e.g., Ontario requires a veterinary inspection within 30 days of arrival).
We recommend working with a specialist pet relocation service 2-3 months before your move date to ensure all documentation is correct and your pet travels safely. Pet relocation costs typically range from £800-£2,500 depending on pet size, airline, and services required.
Yes, we provide compassionate bereavement removals services for families needing to relocate personal effects following a loss. Our team handles these sensitive moves with the utmost discretion and care, coordinating directly with estate executors or family members.
We can arrange collection from any UK or Canadian location, secure packing of personal belongings, and transport to your chosen destination, whether that's a family home or storage facility. Our bereavement service includes:
This service is available for both UK to Canada and Canada to UK moves, and we understand the emotional sensitivity of these situations.
We match you with the right certified international moving company from our partner network (AGM Group - BAR, FIDI, and IAM accredited). Your matched moving company handles the complete process from UK collection to Canadian delivery, or Canadian collection to UK delivery.
Complete our online form with your move details: UK area and Canadian destination (or vice versa), estimated volume or property size, preferred moving dates, and any special requirements (fragile items, bereavement move, pet relocation, storage needs, access issues).
We match you with the most suitable partner mover based on your route, timeline, and requirements. This takes 2-4 hours during business hours.
Your matched moving company contacts you directly to discuss your specific needs. They arrange a virtual or in-person survey (video call survey is standard, accurate for most moves). You receive a detailed written quote specifying door-to-door service, volume allocation, packing options, insurance coverage, timeline, and all costs.
Take time to review the quote carefully. Ask questions. Compare with other quotes if you wish.
Once you accept the written quote, the moving company schedules your collection date. You receive a booking confirmation with dates, what's included, payment terms, and contact details. You pay the moving company directly (not us - we're a matching platform). Provide required documents for customs declarations.
Professional team arrives in UK or Canada to pack and collect. Your goods travel to port, ship across the Atlantic or via Panama Canal, clear customs, and deliver to your new home in Canada or UK. Total timeline: 4-7 weeks door-to-door. You receive progress updates throughout.
Upon delivery, inspect goods against inventory, note any damage immediately, and sign completion paperwork.
We represent three certified international moving companies (AGM Group). We match you to the right partner based on your specific requirements. The partner moving company does the physical work: survey, packing, shipping, customs support, and delivery. You pay them directly after receiving their written quote.
We do not search all movers or compare the whole market. We work exclusively with our three vetted, accredited partners who specialise in UK-Canada and Canada-UK routes.
