Northwest Territories Shipping Container Moving Services

Proper Documentation

Shipping containers into the Northwest Territories from the U.S. requires complete documentation to ensure legal compliance and customs clearance:

• • Bill of Lading (BOL) – Describes shipment contents, origin, and destination
• • Commercial Invoice – Lists goods, declared value, and country of origin
• • Packing List – Provides an itemized list of what’s in the container
• • Canada Customs Invoice (CCI) – Required for shipments over CAD $2,500
• • Customs Broker Information – Strongly recommended for border clearance and paperwork
• • Carrier Code and PARS Barcode – Needed for CBSA pre-arrival processing

CBSA and CBP Compliance

• • PARS (Pre-Arrival Review System): Must be submitted and accepted before reaching the border
• • ACE Manifest (U.S.): Required for all U.S.-based carriers exporting freight
• • eManifest (Canada): Mandatory for entry into Canada, filed through the CBSA portal

Trailer and Container Requirements

The Northwest Territories has unique geographic and weather conditions, along with transport regulations that require:

• • Oversize or Overweight Permits for any container exceeding legal limits
• • Pilot or Escort Vehicles depending on road conditions, load type, and route
• • Containers must be secured for remote travel and rugged road infrastructure

Carrier and Insurance Requirements

• • Carriers must be registered with FMCSA (U.S.) and NSC (Canada)
• • Valid cargo and liability insurance is mandatory for hauling in the Northwest Territories
• • Additional coverage may be required for remote travel and cold-weather risks
• • Specialized equipment endorsements may be necessary

Duties, Taxes, and Tariffs

All goods entering the Northwest Territories are subject to federal GST and potential duties. A customs broker will help determine:

• • Accurate HS code classification
• • Eligibility for duty exemptions under USMCA
• • Restrictions on controlled or regulated cargo

Border Crossing Requirements

There is no direct border crossing into the Northwest Territories from the U.S. All shipments must pass through Alberta or British Columbia. Common access routes include:

• • Alberta route via Highway 35 to Highway 1
• • British Columbia route via the Alaska Highway and Liard Highway

Drivers must be prepared with:

• • Valid passport and driver credentials
• • Cold-weather and remote-haul training or experience
• • Proper vehicle prep for extended and isolated driving

Lead Time and Scheduling

Transport to the Northwest Territories requires advanced planning due to long distances, unpredictable weather, and limited infrastructure. Be sure to:

• • Schedule permits and customs clearance early
• • Allow for additional lead time, especially during freeze-up and thaw seasons
• • Coordinate delivery and unloading at remote or industrial sites