Freight Options for Moving from Dubai to Canada
- Understand Freight Options
- Select the Right Shipping Method
- Work with a Freight Forwarder or Moving Company
- Plan for Customs and Delivery at Destination
Choosing Between Freight Options for Canada
When moving from Dubai to Canada, most shipments are transported by either air or sea or a strategic combination of both. The right choice depends on how much you’re moving, how quickly you need it, and what your budget allows.
Each mode has its benefits; here’s how they typically compare.
Sea Freight
Sea freight is the most widely used method for international relocations, especially for full-household moves or large shipments
- Best for
Full-home relocations, furniture, large volume cargo - Transit time
Around 4–6 weeks from Dubai to most major Canadian ports - Cost efficiency
Best value per cubic metre - Flexibility
Choose between shared container (LCL) or full container (FCL)
Sea freight includes port handling, customs clearance, and inland delivery to your new home or storage in Canada.
Air Freight
Air freight is used for smaller shipments or urgent items that need to arrive quickly.
- Best for
Time-sensitive deliveries, personal items, student moves - Transit time
Usually 7–10 days, including customs clearance - Cost efficiency
Higher cost per kilo, but ideal for lightweight shipments - Customs
Usually processed faster upon arrival
Often used for critical items passports, documents, baby items, or remote work setups.
Mixed Freight (Air + Sea)
Many relocations use both methods: essential items go via air, while furniture and bulkier goods follow by sea.
- Best for
Staged relocations or when temporary housing is involved - Flexibility
Supports gradual unpacking and multi-address delivery - Efficiency
Balance of speed and affordability
This approach is ideal for families relocating ahead of their cargo, or when temporary rentals precede a permanent move.
Freight to Major Canadian Cities
Freight can be routed to ports and logistics hubs across Canada
- Toronto & Vancouver
Common ports of entry with robust customs infrastructure - Calgary & Montreal
Additional hubs supported via inland delivery - Regional areas
Covered via ground transport after customs clearance
We help route your freight based on destination and urgency.
Frequently Asked Questions
LCL (Less than Container Load) means your goods share space with others; FCL (Full Container Load) gives you a dedicated container. FCL is better for larger moves, LCL for partial shipments.
For sea freight, pricing is based on volume (cubic metres). For air freight, cost is based on chargeable weight which includes both size and actual weight.
Yes. Many relocations use a blended method managed under one customs clearance and delivery coordination.
Ideally 4–6 weeks ahead. Booking early helps secure sailing schedules and gives time to handle documentation like ToR and B4E forms.
Yes. Prohibited items include firearms, fresh produce, and certain electronics. We’ll help you review what’s allowed based on Canadian customs.
No but documents must be in order. You’ll usually provide proof of residency, B4E form, and inventory before departure.
Not usually, if documentation is accurate. Customs checks are routine and more likely to delay if the inventory or value declarations are unclear.
Yes. Optional insurance covers loss, damage, or mishandling in transit. Coverage is based on declared value and type of freight.
Short-term and long-term storage is available in most cities. We can hold items until your home is ready or deliver in stages.
Yes but remote delivery may involve added ground transport. Delivery dates can be coordinated to match your arrival or housing timeline.
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.
Ready to Plan Your Freight Strategy?
The right freight method depends on your timeline, budget, and how you want to receive your belongings.

