Transporting a vehicle across the Atlantic is a major logistical project — but with the right partner, it becomes a seamless, stress-free experience. Whether you’re relocating to Europe, sending a collector car, or exporting for resale, shipping a car from Canada to Germany requires careful planning, customs preparation, and trusted international coordination.
At Metropolitan Logistics, we specialize in international vehicle shipping from Canada to Europe. Our team manages every step — from pickup, export documentation, and ocean freight, to customs clearance and delivery in Germany.
1. How Shipping a Car from Canada to Germany Works
The process involves several key stages to ensure safe and compliant transport.
| Step | Process Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Vehicle Pickup | Your car is collected anywhere in Canada — Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary — and moved to a bonded export terminal. |
| 2. Export Preparation | We complete all Canadian export forms and conduct a pre-inspection before shipping. |
| 3. Ocean Freight Booking | The vehicle is loaded either in a container or via Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessel, depending on size and budget. |
| 4. Customs Clearance | Metropolitan Logistics handles all export filings and German import documentation. |
| 5. Delivery in Germany | Final handover in major ports — Hamburg, Bremerhaven, or delivered inland to Berlin, Munich, or Frankfurt. |
2. Shipping Methods: Container vs. Ro-Ro
Container Shipping
Best suited for high-value or classic vehicles, container shipping provides full protection and secure loading.
- Sealed 20ft or 40ft containers
- Can include personal items or motorcycle in the same load
- Perfect for long-term relocation
Ro-Ro (Roll-On/Roll-Off)
Ideal for standard vehicles that can be driven directly onto the vessel.
- Cost-effective for operational cars
- Shorter handling time
- Used for most modern sedans, SUVs, and trucks
3. Required Documents for Export and Import
When shipping a vehicle from Canada to Germany, these documents are mandatory:
- Vehicle Title / Registration
- Bill of Sale or Proof of Ownership
- Passport Copy of Exporter
- Export Declaration (B13A Form)
- Power of Attorney for customs
- Insurance Certificate
Metropolitan Logistics assists with all paperwork — ensuring accuracy and avoiding costly delays at customs.
4. Estimated Costs of Shipping Car from Canada to Germany
The total cost depends on vehicle type, service method, and port of departure.
| Route | Service Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toronto → Hamburg | Ro-Ro Service | $2,200 – $2,800 | 4–5 weeks |
| Montreal → Bremerhaven | Container Service | $2,800 – $3,500 | 4–6 weeks |
| Vancouver → Hamburg | Container Service | $3,200 – $4,200 | 5–7 weeks |
Factors influencing cost:
- Vehicle size and weight
- Shipping method (Ro-Ro or container)
- Insurance and customs fees
- Inland delivery or pickup services
For an accurate quote, contact Metropolitan Logistics directly — we provide transparent, all-inclusive pricing.
5. Customs and Import Process in Germany
Once the vehicle arrives in Germany, it must go through EU import clearance and local inspection (TÜV).
Main steps include:
- Customs declaration (Einfuhrabfertigung)
- Payment of import duties and VAT (unless exempt for relocations)
- Vehicle inspection and registration at local authorities
Tip: If you are relocating permanently from Canada to Germany, your car may qualify for duty-free import under personal effects exemption — our customs experts can guide you through the process.
6. Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics
Shipping a car overseas is not just about getting from point A to B — it’s about trust, precision, and compliance.
Our advantages:
- Experienced international carrier — operating across Europe, the U.S., and Canada
- In-house customs department — full document preparation and verification
- Global network of partners — including Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Rotterdam
- Real-time shipment tracking and cargo insurance
- Door-to-door solutions for both private clients and auto dealers
With over a decade of expertise in international transport, Metropolitan Logistics ensures your vehicle reaches Germany safely, on time, and in perfect condition.
7. Example: Recent Canada–Germany Car Shipment
| Vehicle | Route | Mode | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porsche 911 | Montreal → Hamburg | 20ft container | 5 weeks | Enclosed, insured, customs cleared via Bremerhaven |
| Tesla Model Y | Vancouver → Hamburg | 20ft container | 6 weeks | Fully charged, pre-inspection report included |
| BMW X5 | Toronto → Bremerhaven | 40ft container | 4.5 weeks | Exported under relocation exemption |
8. Service Coverage Across Canada
| Province | Cities Covered |
|---|---|
| Ontario | Toronto, Ottawa, Mississauga, Hamilton, London |
| Quebec | Montreal, Quebec City, Laval, Longueuil |
| British Columbia | Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond |
| Alberta | Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge |
| Manitoba | Winnipeg |
| Nova Scotia | Halifax |
| Saskatchewan | Regina, Saskatoon |
We arrange export pickup from any Canadian city and deliver to major German ports — Hamburg, Bremerhaven, or directly to your home address in Europe.
9. Preparing Your Vehicle for Export
Before handing over your car, it’s important to follow a few steps:
- Wash and inspect the vehicle exterior
- Remove personal belongings (unless using a container)
- Keep the fuel tank below ¼ capacity
- Disable alarm systems and fold mirrors
- Provide one full set of keys
Our team conducts a final inspection with photos and documentation before loading.
10. How to Get Started
Shipping your vehicle internationally has never been easier. Contact Metropolitan Logistics to arrange secure transport from anywhere in Canada to Germany — with full support for customs, insurance, and delivery. 👉 Get a Quote for Car Shipping
📞 +1 (365) 829 5000
✉️ service@metropolitanlogistics.ca
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