Shipping a car from Canada to Australia is one of the longest international vehicle transport routes, both in distance and planning complexity. Because of strict Australian import regulations and limited carrier options, the process requires careful preparation, correct documentation, and reliable container shipping.
At Metropolitan Logistics, we handle international vehicle exports from Canada to Australia using container-only transport. In this guide, we explain shipping a car from Canada to Australia, outline how much to ship a car from Canada to Australia, and break down real 2026 costs, transit times, and port options.
How Shipping a Car From Canada to Australia Works
Shipping a car from Canada to Australia follows a structured international workflow. First, the vehicle is transported to a Canadian port. Next, it is secured inside an ocean container. Finally, it is shipped to Australia, where it undergoes quarantine inspection and customs clearance.
In practice, the process includes:
- Inland pickup or delivery to a secure loading facility
- Container loading and professional blocking
- Export documentation and customs clearance in Canada
- Ocean transport to Australia
- Quarantine inspection and import clearance
Because Australia enforces strict biosecurity rules, proper preparation is critical.
Why Container Shipping Is Required for Australia
Although Roll-on/Roll-off services exist on some global routes, they are not practical for Canada–Australia vehicle shipping. As a result, shipping a car from Canada to Australia is done by container.
Container shipping offers several advantages. First, it protects the vehicle from salt exposure during long ocean transit. Second, it allows controlled loading and sealing. Third, it meets Australian quarantine and inspection standards more reliably.
For these reasons, Metropolitan Logistics ships vehicles to Australia exclusively in containers.
Canadian Ports Used for Shipping to Australia
Depending on vehicle location and carrier routing, shipping a car from Canada to Australia can begin at multiple ports.
- Port of Vancouver – primary gateway for Australia-bound routes
- Port of Montreal – available via transshipment
- Port of Halifax – limited availability, longer transit
However, Vancouver is generally preferred due to more frequent sailings.
Australian Ports of Entry
Vehicles shipped from Canada typically arrive at major Australian ports with quarantine facilities.
- Port of Melbourne
- Port of Sydney (Port Botany)
- Port of Brisbane
- Port of Fremantle
Port selection depends on final destination and quarantine processing capacity.
Cost to Ship a Car From Canada to Australia (2026)
The cost to ship a car from Canada to Australia depends on container type, port of departure, and whether the container is shared or dedicated.
Estimated Container Shipping Costs
| Shipping Option | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Shared 20-ft container | $4,500 – $6,200 |
| Dedicated 20-ft container | $5,800 – $7,500 |
| 40-ft container | $8,000 – $11,000 |
These figures reflect average 2026 pricing and may vary by season.
How Much to Ship a Car From Canada to Australia vs Australia to Canada
Many customers compare how much to ship a car from Australia to Canada versus shipping from Canada to Australia.
| Route | Typical Cost Range (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Canada → Australia | $4,500 – $7,500 |
| Australia → Canada | $4,800 – $8,000 |
Costs differ due to carrier availability, fuel surcharges, and port handling fees.
Transit Time for Shipping a Car From Canada to Australia
Transit times are longer than most international routes due to distance.
| Route | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Vancouver → Australia | 35–50 days |
| Montreal → Australia | 45–60 days |
| Halifax → Australia | 50–65 days |
Additional time may be required for quarantine inspection and customs clearance.
Vehicle Requirements and Australian Quarantine Rules
Australia enforces strict biosecurity standards. Therefore, vehicles must be prepared carefully.
- Vehicle can be running or non-running
- Undercarriage must be thoroughly cleaned
- No soil, plant material, or debris allowed
- Interior must be clean and empty
Failure to meet these requirements can result in cleaning fees or delays.
Preparing Your Car for Shipping to Australia
Before shipment, several preparation steps are essential. First, clean the vehicle thoroughly. Next, remove personal items. Then, document the vehicle condition with photos. Finally, ensure all paperwork is complete before loading.
These steps help reduce quarantine delays and additional costs.
Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics
Shipping a car from Canada to Australia requires experience with long-distance routes and strict import regulations. Therefore, choosing a knowledgeable logistics provider is critical.
Metropolitan Logistics provides:
- Container-only international vehicle shipping
- Canada-wide inland transport to ports
- Professional container loading and bracing
- Export documentation handling
- Coordination with Australian quarantine and customs agents
You can learn more about our international services through our international car shipping services.
Final Thoughts
Shipping a car from Canada to Australia in 2026 is a complex but manageable process when handled correctly. With container shipping, proper preparation, and professional coordination, vehicles arrive safely and compliantly.
Metropolitan Logistics manages every stage of the shipment, providing clarity, reliability, and predictable outcomes.
Contact Our International Car Shipping Team
📞 +1 (365) 829-5000
📧 autotransport@metropolitanlogistics.ca
We provide transparent quotes and guide you through every step of shipping a car from Canada to Australia.