Moving Vehicles vs. DIY Shipping: Pros & Cons for Canadians
When you’re preparing for a big move in Canada—or even across the border into the U.S.—one of the biggest questions you might face is: What should I do with my car? For many Canadians, our vehicles aren’t just transportation. They’re an essential part of daily life, whether that means commuting through Toronto traffic, navigating snowy highways in Alberta, or heading to the cottage on weekends.
When relocating, you generally have two choices:
Hire a professional auto transport company to move your vehicle.
Take the do-it-yourself (DIY) route and ship or drive it yourself.
Both options have their advantages and drawbacks. Let’s break it down so you can decide which route is right for your situation.
Option 1: Professional Vehicle Moving Services
Professional auto transport is designed to take the stress out of moving your car. These companies use specialized trucks or carriers to move vehicles safely from one location to another.
Pros of Hiring a Professional
1. Convenience
The biggest advantage is peace of mind. Professionals handle the logistics, paperwork, and transportation. You can focus on the rest of your move without worrying about how to get your car to your new home.
2. Time-Saving
If you’re already juggling packing, movers, and family logistics, saving a few days of driving can make a world of difference. Professionals can ship your vehicle while you take a flight and arrive rested.
3. Safety
Auto transport companies are equipped to secure vehicles properly. Your car is loaded onto a carrier designed to prevent damage during long hauls, even through rough Canadian weather.
4. Insurance Coverage
Reputable companies offer insurance in case something goes wrong. That means you’re protected financially against accidental damage.
5. Cross-Border Expertise
If you’re moving to or from the U.S., professional movers are familiar with customs paperwork and vehicle import rules. This reduces the risk of delays at the border.
Cons of Hiring a Professional
1. Cost
Hiring professionals is typically more expensive. Depending on distance, type of vehicle, and service level, moving a car within Canada can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 or more. Cross-border shipping can run higher.
2. Scheduling
You’ll need to plan around the transport company’s timelines. Pickup and delivery dates may be flexible, but not always as precise as you’d like.
3. Limited Control
Once your car is loaded, it’s out of your hands. For some people, that lack of control can be stressful.
Option 2: DIY Vehicle Shipping or Driving
The alternative is to handle it yourself. For some, that means renting a trailer and towing the vehicle. For others, it could mean simply driving the car to the new location.
Pros of DIY Shipping
1. Lower Cost (Potentially)
Doing it yourself can be cheaper if you’re comfortable with the logistics. Driving your own car only costs fuel, food, and possibly lodging. Renting a trailer or dolly is often cheaper than hiring professionals.
2. Flexibility
You control the schedule. Want to take a scenic route, stop at a friend’s house, or spread the drive over several days? DIY gives you the freedom to set the pace.
3. Immediate Access
Once you arrive, your car is already there. No waiting for a delivery window.
4. Great for Short Distances
If you’re moving within the same province or to a nearby city, driving your car yourself makes sense. It’s simple and avoids the hassle of coordinating with a transport company.
Cons of DIY Shipping
1. Wear and Tear
Driving long distances adds kilometres to your car and increases maintenance needs. Oil changes, tire wear, and potential breakdowns are real considerations.
2. Time-Consuming
Long drives across Canada can eat up several days, especially if you’re moving from one coast to another. That’s valuable time you could be spending settling into your new home.
3. Stress and Fatigue
Driving through Canadian winters, icy roads, or long stretches of remote highway can be mentally and physically exhausting. Towing a vehicle adds even more stress.
4. Insurance Gaps
Your personal auto insurance may not cover damage if something happens while towing. And if you’re moving across the U.S.–Canada border, DIY shipping often comes with confusing paperwork.
5. Equipment Costs
If you don’t own a trailer or tow dolly, you’ll need to rent one. Add fuel for the extra weight, and the costs may start to creep closer to professional pricing.
Key Considerations for Canadians
When deciding between professional vehicle movers and DIY, consider these factors:
Distance of the Move: A short relocation within Ontario or Quebec may be manageable DIY. A cross-country move from Vancouver to Halifax? Professional movers will likely save your sanity.
Budget: If saving money is the top priority, DIY could work—but don’t forget hidden costs like hotels, meals, and vehicle wear.
Timeframe: Are you on a tight deadline? Professional movers allow you to fly to your destination while your car arrives separately.
Weather Conditions: Winter driving in Canada can be risky. If your move falls in January or February, a professional service may be the safer choice.
Type of Vehicle: Classic cars, luxury vehicles, or oversized trucks benefit from professional handling. Older vehicles or work trucks may be fine for DIY.
Cross-Border Rules: Moving between the U.S. and Canada adds layers of paperwork. Professionals who do this every day know the process inside and out.
A Balanced Approach: Combining Options
Sometimes, the best solution is a mix. For example:
One car DIY, one car shipped – If your household owns multiple vehicles, drive one and ship the other.
Seasonal moves – Snowbirds heading from Ontario to Florida may choose to drive south in the fall but ship their vehicle back in the spring.
Temporary storage – Professional movers can store your vehicle until you’re ready to receive it.
At the end of the day…
Choosing between professional vehicle movers and DIY shipping comes down to your priorities: convenience vs. cost, time vs. control.
If you value peace of mind, speed, and safety, hiring professionals is worth the investment.
If you’re focused on budget and flexibility—and don’t mind the drive—DIY may be your best bet.
For many Canadians, the decision hinges on distance, weather, and how much time you’re willing to spend behind the wheel. Either way, careful planning will make sure your car arrives safely at your new home.
