Shipping a container from Canada to India is more than moving cargo — it’s a complex service that requires planning, customs knowledge, and reliable logistics partners. At Metropolitan Logistics, we specialize in international freight solutions, offering clients a seamless process from pickup in Canada to delivery in India. Whether you are a business shipping commercial goods or a family relocating overseas, our professional services ensure secure and cost-effective container transport.
Why Choose Professional Container Shipping Services
While it’s possible to arrange shipping independently, using an experienced container transport company like Metropolitan Logistics provides unmatched advantages:
- End-to-End Service – From drayage in Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver to port handling and delivery in India.
- Customs & Compliance – Full documentation support for Indian import/export regulations.
- Flexible Options – Both FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load) available.
- Insurance & Security – Protecting your shipment every step of the way.
- Reliable Network – Partnerships with major ports and shipping lines connecting Canada and India.
Understanding Container Shipping Services
When planning to ship cargo internationally, you’ll encounter terms like FCL and LCL, as well as container sizes such as 20ft and 40ft. Understanding these options helps you choose the right service.
- FCL (Full Container Load):
You book an entire container for your cargo. Best for households, businesses shipping large quantities, or vehicles. - LCL (Less than Container Load):
You share container space with other shippers. Best for small businesses, startups, or partial relocations.
Container Sizes
- 20ft Container (~28 CBM): Typically fits the contents of a 2–3 bedroom household, or one vehicle plus household goods.
- 40ft Container (~58 CBM): Suited for larger families, commercial cargo, or two vehicles.
Choosing the right service depends on the type, size, and value of your shipment. Our specialists provide consultations to help you decide whether FCL or LCL is best for your needs.
Cost of Shipping a Container from Canada to India
The cost of shipping container from Canada to India depends on container type, route, and service.
Average 2025 Costs
| Container Type | Volume | Avg. Cost (CAD) | Transit Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20ft FCL | ~28 CBM | $3,800 – $5,200 | 28–35 days | Households, small commercial loads |
| 40ft FCL | ~58 CBM | $6,200 – $8,500 | 28–35 days | Vehicles, bulk goods, large relocations |
| LCL (per CBM) | Flexible | From $150 | 30–38 days | Startups, e-commerce, small shipments |
What Affects the Price?
- Port of departure: Halifax may be cheaper than Vancouver due to shorter transit.
- Destination port: Mumbai (Nhava Sheva) is more affordable than Kolkata due to higher volume.
- Seasonality: Rates rise before Diwali and Christmas.
- Customs duties: Import duties in India range from 5% to 28%.
- Fuel & surcharges: Ocean carriers adjust prices based on global conditions.
Metropolitan Logistics provides transparent quotes with no hidden fees. Our team explains every cost component—drayage, port charges, customs clearance—so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Main Ports and Trade Routes
Canadian Ports
- Montreal: Primary hub for container traffic to Europe and onward to India.
- Halifax: Shorter Atlantic routing, often the fastest for FCL shipments.
- Vancouver: Serves Western Canada, usually via transshipment in Asia.
Indian Ports
- Nhava Sheva (Mumbai): Handles over half of India’s container traffic.
- Chennai: Ideal for southern India cargo.
- Mundra: Modern private port, growing in popularity.
- Kolkata: Strategic for East India shipments.
Transit Times
- Montreal → Mumbai: 28–33 days
- Halifax → Mumbai: 26–31 days
- Vancouver → Mumbai: 30–36 days
Including inland trucking and customs, door-to-door delivery takes 6–7 weeks.
Customs and Documentation Requirements
Shipping to India requires strict compliance with customs rules. Mistakes can cause long delays. Metropolitan Logistics manages documentation and clearance on your behalf.
Key Documents
- Bill of Lading (B/L): Proof of shipment.
- Commercial Invoice & Packing List: Itemized value of goods.
- Certificate of Origin: Verifies source country.
- Insurance Certificate: Protects against loss or damage.
- Importer Exporter Code (IEC): Mandatory for Indian importers.
Duties and Taxes
- Import duties: Range from 5%–28% depending on product category.
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): Applied on imports, varies by product type.
- Exemptions: Household goods for returning residents may qualify for reduced duties.
Our customs team ensures paperwork is correct, helping you avoid penalties or seizures.
Industry-Specific Container Shipping Solutions
Metropolitan Logistics tailors shipping solutions for multiple industries:
- Manufacturing & Machinery: Heavy equipment and spare parts shipped in FCL containers.
- Retail & E-commerce: Cost-effective LCL services for SMEs importing stock.
- Pharmaceutical & Medical: Time-sensitive shipments requiring insurance and priority routing.
- Automotive: Containerized shipping of cars, SUVs, and motorcycles.
- Household Relocations: Families moving overseas with furniture, appliances, and personal effects.
Our Process: How We Handle Container Shipping
We make international shipping straightforward with a clear 3-step process:
Consultation & Planning
We review your cargo, recommend the right container size, and provide a transparent cost estimate.
Documentation & Customs
Our specialists prepare your paperwork, coordinate with Canadian and Indian customs, and ensure compliance.
Shipping & Delivery
We arrange drayage in Canada, manage the ocean freight, track your shipment, and handle delivery in India.
This streamlined approach saves you time, reduces risks, and ensures peace of mind.
Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics
Metropolitan Logistics is more than a freight forwarder—we are your international logistics partner.
- Expertise in Canada–India Trade: Decades of experience in shipping to South Asia.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden surcharges or surprise costs.
- Customs Compliance: Smooth clearance in both Canada and India.
- End-to-End Service: From door pickup in Canada to delivery in India.
👉 Learn more here: Container Transport Company
Conclusion
The shipping container from Canada to India process may seem complicated, but with the right logistics partner, it becomes seamless. Metropolitan Logistics provides businesses and families with reliable container transport, competitive pricing, and professional support from start to finish.
📞 +1 (365) 829 5000
📧 service@metropolitanlogistics.ca
👉 Get a container shipping quote today
