Shipping a car from Canada to Mexico is an international logistics process that requires careful planning, correct documentation, and the right transport method. Despite geographic proximity, vehicle shipping to Mexico is not a simple cross-border drive — it is a regulated international shipment.
At Metropolitan Logistics, we handle container-based international car shipping from Canada to Mexico, managing export preparation, ocean transport, and coordination with Mexican ports and customs partners. This guide explains how shipping works in 2026, what it costs, realistic transit times, and what to expect at destination.
How Car Shipping From Canada to Mexico Works
When shipping a car from Canada to Mexico, the process follows an international container workflow. While some people assume overland transport is standard, container shipping remains the most controlled and secure method for international vehicle delivery, especially for long-distance or non-running vehicles.
The process includes:
- Export documentation in Canada
- Container loading and securing
- Ocean transport to Mexico
- Arrival handling and customs clearance
Metropolitan Logistics coordinates each step to ensure compliance with Canadian export rules and Mexican import requirements.
Container Shipping Only: Our Standard for Mexico Routes
For international shipments, Metropolitan Logistics uses container shipping exclusively. This approach ensures:
- Full protection inside a sealed container
- Reduced handling risk
- Predictable carrier schedules
- Compatibility with Mexican port procedures
Container shipping is suitable for both running and non-running vehicles and allows controlled loading and unloading.
Canadian Ports Used for Shipping to Mexico
We ship vehicles to Mexico from all major Canadian ports, depending on the shipper’s location:
- Port of Vancouver — primary gateway to Mexico’s Pacific ports
- Port of Montreal — used via transshipment routes
- Port of Halifax — available depending on carrier schedules
Vehicles can be delivered to port by truck or loaded at one of our secure container facilities.
Arrival Ports in Mexico
Containers from Canada typically arrive at:
- Port of Manzanillo — most common destination
- Port of Veracruz — Atlantic-side option
- Port of Lázaro Cárdenas — alternative Pacific gateway
Final port selection depends on carrier availability, customs broker coordination, and the vehicle’s final destination in Mexico.
Cost of Shipping a Car From Canada to Mexico (2026)
The cost of shipping a car from Canada to Mexico depends on container size, port of departure, and carrier conditions.
Estimated Container Shipping Costs
| Container Type | Estimated Price Range (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 20 ft Container | $3,500 – $4,900 |
| 40 ft Container | $5,800 – $7,600 |
These estimates include ocean freight and basic port handling. Mexican import duties, taxes, and local delivery are not included.
Transit Time: Canada to Mexico
Transit times vary based on routing and port of departure.
| Route | Estimated Transit Time |
| Vancouver → Manzanillo | 18–25 days |
| Montreal → Veracruz (via transshipment) | 28–38 days |
| Halifax → Mexico | 30–40 days |
Additional time should be expected for customs clearance in Mexico.
Vehicle Eligibility and Preparation
For international container shipping to Mexico:
- Vehicles do not need to be running
- Non-running vehicles are loaded using professional winching
- Vehicles must be free of personal belongings
- Vehicles must comply with Mexican import regulations
Our team reviews vehicle eligibility in advance to prevent delays or customs issues.
Export Documentation Managed by Metropolitan Logistics
We handle all Canadian-side export requirements, including:
- Bill of Lading
- Export declarations
- Commercial invoice
- Container booking and port coordination
Clients receive clear guidance on documents required by Mexican customs authorities.
Potential Delays and Considerations
Shipping a car from Canada to Mexico may be affected by:
- Customs inspections
- Port congestion
- Carrier schedule changes
- Regulatory reviews at destination
Metropolitan Logistics monitors shipments closely and coordinates with destination partners to minimize delays.
Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics
International car shipping requires experience and reliable carrier access. We provide:
- Container-only vehicle shipping
- Canada-wide pickup and port access
- Secure professional loading
- Export documentation handling
- Coordination with Mexican customs brokers
You can learn more about our services on our International Car Shipping.
Final Notes
If you are planning shipping a car from Canada to Mexico, container shipping remains the safest and most reliable solution in 2026. With varying regulations and long transit distances, professional handling is essential.
Metropolitan Logistics manages the process end-to-end, giving you clarity, compliance, and peace of mind.
Contact Our International Auto Transport Team (2026)
📞 +1 (365) 829-5000
📧 autotransport@metropolitanlogistics.ca
We’ll prepare a transparent quote and guide you through every step of shipping your vehicle from Canada to Mexico.
