Canadian Customs Rules for Relocations from Dubai
- Declare All Personal Goods at Entry
- Prepare Required Forms and Documents
- Know Your Duty-Free Exemptions
- Follow Rules for Restricted or Shipped Items
What to Know About Canadian Customs for Personal Shipments
When moving to Canada from Dubai, your shipment will go through customs on arrival whether it enters by air or sea. Canada allows many household goods to enter duty-free if they meet certain conditions, but documentation must be accurate and submitted properly.
Having the right paperwork in place before your shipment departs helps ensure a smoother process when your items arrive.
Key Requirements for Personal Goods
Customs clearance for relocations usually involves these steps:
- B4 or B4E Form Submissio
This form lists all the goods you’re bringing into Canada. It’s typically submitted before or at the time of
arrival. - Proof of Immigration Status
You’ll need to show that you’re moving to Canada under permanent residence, work visa, student visa, or similar. - Detailed Inventory
A room-by-room list of shipped items, including descriptions and approximate values. - Supporting Documents
Passport copies, proof of residence (rental lease, home purchase), and freight documents like the bill of lading.
Clear labelling and complete declarations make the process easier for both you and customs officials.
What Items Are Duty-Free?
You can usually bring in:
- Furniture, electronics, kitchenware, clothing
- Books, personal effects, and sporting equipment
- Used household items owned for 6+ months
- Vehicles, in some cases, with proper permits
Items must be for personal use and not intended for resale. Duties may apply if the value is unusually high or paperwork is incomplete.
What Is Restricted or Prohibited?
- Some items require special clearance or are not allowed:
- Firearms and ammunition
Certain food products or plants - Items containing soil or organic residue
- Large sums of undeclared cash
- Alcohol and tobacco above allowable limits
Unsure what qualifies? It’s best to clarify before packing.
Frequently Asked Questions
This is a Canada Border Services form that lists your imported items. B4 is for in-person submission, B4E is digital. It’s submitted before or on the day of your arrival in Canada.
Yes but customs clearance is easier if you’re already in Canada or arriving around the same time. You may need to nominate a representative if you're not present.
You may be charged duties on your shipment. If customs can’t verify your personal move status, your goods may be treated as commercial imports.
No, as long as the items are over six months old and you qualify under the transfer of residence exemption.
Yes, but they must be declared and may need to be listed separately in your inventory. Proof of prior ownership helps avoid duties.
Yes vehicle import rules are strict. Only certain cars qualify and must meet Canadian safety standards. A separate import permit is usually required.
If selected, your shipment may be opened and checked. This is why clear labelling, clean packaging, and compliant declarations matter.
Small amounts may be allowed, but they must be declared. Taxes and duties apply, and limits are tightly enforced.
Keep copies of your B4/B4E, inventory list, air waybill or bill of lading, proof of PR or visa, and any receipts or valuation statements.
It may be held temporarily or subject to inspection fees. You’ll be contacted to clarify or provide additional documents.
Benefits Of Service
Seamless Customs Support
We guide you through Canadian customs regulations and help complete required forms like BSF186 for duty-free import.
End-to-End Moving Experience
From packing in Dubai to doorstep delivery in Toronto, Vancouver, or Calgary—our team manages every detail.
Transparent & Competitive Pricing
Get a clear, fixed quote with no hidden charges. Choose the freight method that fits your timeline and budget.
Work Process
How It Works Just 4 Simple Steps
Moving with Acorn Movers is easy, efficient, and stress-free. Here’s how we make it happen:
Get A Free Quote
Receive a free quotation and schedule a packing date & time that works for you.
Expert Packing
Our professional team arrives and carefully packs your belongings using high-quality materials.
Lock and Loaded
We carefully load your items onto your chosen freight vehicle using modern equipment and proven techniques to ensure nothing gets damaged.
Final Delivery in Canada
Your goods are delivered safely and on time; right where you need them, at your Canadian address.
Make Canadian Customs Simple
Planning ahead saves time, cost, and stress.

