A crosswalk is painted orange with white feathers to honour survivors of Canada’s residential school system.
Each year, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (also known as Orange Shirt Day). The day recognizes and remembers the tragic history and honours the survivors of residential schools. These schools were underfunded and inflicted abuse on children leaving long-lasting impacts. It’s also an important day for all Canadians to learn about Canada’s Indigenous history.
For newcomers, it’s essential to know the history of the country you are joining. To reflect a more inclusive history, Canada will update its citizenship guide with information about residential schools. This update will help newcomers to learn about the wrongs committed against the Indigenous people. And, by exposing the truth, we can move toward reconciling what Canada has long ignored. Another valuable resource is Reconciliation Information for Newcomers to Canada. This educational guide provides the history of Canada’s residential school system and reconciliation information for newcomers.
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Origin of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Since its founding in 2013, Orange Shirt Day has helped Canadians learn about past mistakes and remember the legacy of residential schools. More than that, it symbolizes how Canadians are striving for a future where all Indigenous people have equal rights.
History of Orange Shirt Day
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Orange Shirt Day recognizes the harm that residential schools caused to Indigenous children, families, and communities. The day is based on the story of Phyllis Webstad. She was an Indigenous girl of 6 years when she was forced to go to a residential school.
Phyllis lived with her grandmother on Dog Creek Reserve and never had a lot of money. However, her grandmother still managed to save enough money to buy Phyllis a brand new orange shirt to wear to school. Phyllis was excited to go to her residential school. But she did not yet know about the horrors that would be awaiting her.
Once she reached the school, she was forced to take off her orange shirt and she never saw it again. The orange shirt has come to symbolize how it was for Indigenous children to attend residential schools. Not only did these schools forcefully assimilate children but they also took away all meaning of life for them.
Orange Shirt Day is a way to fix the injustice done to the Indigenous peoples. It is also a stark reminder of the kind of place Canada would be without its accepting and inclusive environment. Canada is full of many great things but one of the greatest things Canadians have is a sense of unity, no matter what our backgrounds are. Let’s never forget that as we move into the future. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation allows Canadians to pause and reflect on the meaning of the day.
On September 30, people across Canada wear orange shirts to remember the children who were taken from their families to residential schools. Wearing orange also promotes the concept of “Every Child Matters” and honours the survivors of residential schools.
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Orange Shirt Day promotes the concept of “Every Child Matters” and honours the survivors of residential schools.
Remains of Indigenous Children Found in Kamloops, B.C.
In May of 2021, there was a shocking discovery in the city of Kamloops, British Columbia. The remains of 215 Indigenous children were found buried near a residential school. Kamloops Residential School was one of the biggest residential schools in Canada. Sadly, the remains belonged to the children who attended the school.
More remains were found near other residential schools in Canada revealing a dark chapter of Canada’s history. So it’s our job as Canadians, to honour the survivors of residential schools and recognize their losses. These discoveries should urge all Canadians to learn from the past and avoid making the same mistakes.
What is Canada Doing About This?
Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Residential Schools recommended specific actions to reverse the injustice. And on June 3, 2021 the Canadian parliament passed Bill C-5 to designate September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
This day encourages Canadians to learn about the darker parts of Canada’s past rather than to hide from it. It’s a day to learn about key historical events. Only when every Canadian knows about the crimes committed against Indigenous peoples can we move forward as a nation.
On September 30 you can participate in a number of events that First Nations, Metis, and Inuit leaders have organized. These important events help all Canadians to acknowledge the harm done and better understand the history of Indigenous Peoples.
Reconciliation is an ongoing process. By participating in events, we take the time to listen, learn, reflect, and support reconciliation in our local communities.
Ottawa, Ontario
Illuminating Parliament Hill
To honour the survivors of residential schools, their families and communities buildings across Canada including the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill will be illuminated in orange from September 30 at 7 p.m. to sunrise on October 1.
National Commemorative Gathering
A live broadcast, Remembering The Children: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2023 will air from Parliament Hill. You can join in person or watch the broadcast online to memorialize children lost to the residential school system.
The Winnipeg Art Gallery will host a special day of programming that includes tours, workshops, and talks about the experiences and history of Indigenous children forced to attend residential schools. Special guests include Reconciliation for Newcomers to Canada.
Siksika Health Services and the Calgary Hitmen will host the Every Child Matters Traditional Powwow in the Scotiabank Saddledome on September 30th to mark the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day. The powwow will open with a special greeting from the founder of Orange Shirt Day, Phyllis Webstad.
Toronto, Ontario
To mark September 30, flags at City Hall and civic centres will fly at half-mast and the Toronto sign will be lit orange. The Survivors Flag will also fly at half-mast. This flag is a sign of remembrance to honour all the lives and communities affected by the residential school system in Canada. In addition, many truth and reconciliation community events will be open to the public across the city.
Vancouver, British Columbia
On September 30, the University of British Columbia will host the Intergenerational March to Commemorate Orange Shirt Day This educational event will also support the Indigenous community on campus and beyond. A series of afternoon educational events will allow younger participants to learn about a difficult era in Canadian history.
With events taking place all across Canada, be sure to check out what activities will take place in your local community.
RecognizingNational Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Recognizing September 30th as a statutory holiday encourages people to reflect and engage in activities that honour those affected by the residential school system. The Government of Canada declared September 30 as a federal statutory holiday. This means that workers in federally regulated industries such as postal workers, government staff, and bank employees get the day off with pay. As well some schools will close. When September 30 falls on a weekend. as it does in 2023, workplaces will observe the holiday on Monday, October 2, 2023.
Other provinces and territories also recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a statutory holiday including British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, and Nunavut. The other provinces are recognizing September 30th as a day of commemoration and leave it up to individual employers to treat it as a holiday.
And for all Canadians, whether you’re at work, school, or home it’s a day to honour the survivors and communities of residential schools. As we learn more about Indigenous cultures across Canada we strengthen our relationships. Whether you wear an orange shirt on September 30 or take time to reflect on the past, you share your support for reconciliation!
For more information, tools, and resources about living in Canada, check out our Settling in Canadaresource page.
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.
Marking the unofficial end of summer, most people know Labour Day in Canada for its extravagant parades and great shopping deals. Labour Day in Canada is an annual statutory holiday that occurs on the first Monday of every September. The holiday has a very deep and complicated history that many Canadians are not aware of. As we prepare for another Labour Day weekend, let’s remember to celebrate the workers, including immigrants, who built the country it is today. Discover the history of the Labour Day holiday in Canada and what it means for workers’ rights today.
Why Do We Celebrate Labour Day
The working class didn’t always have the rights we have in Canada today. Fair employment standards such as a safe workplace, a set minimum wage, and the right to join a union are some of the rights we take for granted today. The working class in the 19th century did not enjoy many of these rights. And, Canadian workers went through a lot to gain these rights. Labour Day reminds us and celebrates the progress and success of those dedicated to creating the workers’ rights and protections that we have today.
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History Of Labour Day In Canada
Labour Day officially became a statutory holiday in Canada in 1894. However, the holiday finds its origins long before that. Many historians accredit the events of 1872 to have been the driving force behind achieving Labour Day. The Nine-Hour Movement of 1872 was a push for shorter work days at a time when most employees were expected to work twelve hours a day.
Nine-Hour Movement
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On April 15, 1872, workers from the Toronto Typographical Union went on strike. They paraded with 10,000 union supporters to Queen’s Park in Toronto. At the time, however, work unions were illegal and it was illegal for workers to strike against their employers collectively. As a result, 24 leaders of the strike were arrested and charged with criminal conspiracy.
The arrests were met with widespread protest and the general population was enraged. The first Prime Minister of Canada, Sir John A. Macdonald, responded by promising to get rid of anti-union laws. On July 14 of the same year, Parliament passed the Trade Unions Act, which legalized unions.
Labour Day Becomes a National Holiday
A Labour Day Parade along Yonge Street in Toronto, Ontario in the early 1900s.
This was a huge breakthrough in workers’ rights. The passing of this bill gave way to many other rights that would eventually be demanded by workers. After the events of the Nine-Hour Movement, Toronto would hold an annual parade to celebrate the victory of getting unions. In 1894, Labour Day became a national holiday. At first, it was a holiday associated mostly with work unions. As time went on, however, more and more businesses started giving employees the day off. Today, Labour Day is a statutory holiday across Canada and most workers will get the day off.
Labour Day in Canada
Today, most people see Labour Day as the holiday that comes at the end of summer. While the holiday still reflects what it originally stood for, many Canadians don’t know the significance behind the holiday. It originated as a day for workers to rally together and campaign for better working conditions and that has made it a unique holiday. Unlike the rest of the Canadian statutory holidays, Labour Day is not much of a festive holiday. Rather, it consists of activities such as parades, picnics, speeches and competitions.
Celebrations usually take place throughout the Labour Day long weekend. Since most Canadians also get Monday off, the Labour Day Weekend has three days. Many Canadians use the Labour Day weekend as a way to enjoy the company of family and friends. It is common for families to go on a picnic before the summer ends.
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The first day of school usually follows the Labour Day holiday for most elementary, secondary, and university students. So, the Labour Day weekend in Canada is an opportunity for students to celebrate the last long weekend of the summer and prepare for the exciting new school year.
Yes, Labour Day is a federal statutory holiday. Unlike most other statutory holidays, labour day is pretty straightforward. All government offices and almost all retail stores will be closed. Some convenience stores and restaurants may remain open but it is mostly pretty straightforward. Because the day after Labour Day marks the first day of school for students, many people refer to Labour Day weekend as the end of summer in Canada.
Labour Day falls on the first Monday of September every year. In 2023, Labour Day will fall on September 4th.
Celebrating Labour Day Weekend in Canada
Now that you know a little bit about how Labour Day came to be and how Canadians celebrate it, let’s talk about some of the popular events that take place on the Labour Day weekend in Canada. Two of the biggest and most anticipated events that happen around Labour Day are the Pacific and Canadian National Exhibitions. The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) takes place in Toronto while the Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) takes place in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Canadian National Exhibition
The CNE is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Every year, the event comes to Toronto in the weeks leading up to Labour Day. This year, the CNE will start on August 18 and run until Labour Day on September 4. To many, the exhibition is Toronto’s signature end-of-summer event, receiving around one and a half million visitors each year.
Pacific National Exhibition
The PNE is Western Canada’s equivalent of the CNE. Like the CNE, the PNE comes to Vancouver every year and runs for around two weeks leading to Labour Day. PNE will open on August 19 – September 4, 2023.
The PNE is full of entertaining performances, music concerts, and lots of food. This year, some of the events the PNE will be hosting include:
Summer Night Concerts
Barkade from the SuperDogs
Knights of Valour, a real live jousting event
The Flying Fools High Dive Show.
Both exhibitions are jam-packed with exciting activities and displays and are sure to give you an excellent time. They are a great way to spend time with family and friends while having the time of your life. The CNE and PNE might be the two biggest Labour Day events but they aren’t the only ones. No matter where you live in Canada, there will likely be a couple of events in the area. Many professional sports leagues also hold special games over the Labour Day Weekend.
With all of the exciting events that take place on the Labour Day weekend, let’s remember to celebrate the workers, including immigrants, who built the country it is today and who continue to fight for workplace equity.
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.
For newcomers, it’s important to choose the right type of resume format because this can play a key factor in getting hired in Canada. And a well-written resume is vital to grab the attention of Canadian employers. A good resume highlights all of your best skills and accomplishments in a way that is relevant to potential employers. This is why there are different types of resume formats for jobs, each useful in its own way.
Writing a Canadian-style resume is important. And it’s vital to invest the time. Otherwise, you can send out hundreds of resumes that go unnoticed and this will only be frustrating and lengthen your job search. Also, it’s helpful to know that there are many free settlement services that can help you to write a Canadian-style resume.
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When you know what elements are important, you can convey this information and increase your chance of employers contacting you for an interview. Here, I’ll discuss the three main types of resume formats and when to use each one.
Three Main Types of Resume Formats
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These three types of resume formats each look different and highlight aspects of your education, skills, and experience. Let’s take a deeper look at each of these resume formats.
Chronological resume
2. Functional resume
3. Hybrid resume (also known as combination)
1. Chronological Resume
A chronological resume format lists all your experience and previous jobs in reverse chronological order. This means that you will list your jobs in order from when you did them. Your most recent job will be at the top of your resume, followed by your second most recent job, and so on.
A chronological resume is the most common and practical resume format. Employers usually prefer this type of resume format because it:
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shows your growth and previous work experience
is easy to read as it follows a linear design.
You should use a chronological resume wherever you can. It is the most preferred by employers and recruiters and is the most likely to get you invited for the interview. This is because employers usually value experience over qualifications. Experience indicates that you have all the skills necessary to complete the job. However, there are situations in which a chronologically formatted resume may not be the best option for you.
Chronological resumes are very straightforward. They list your work experience in order starting with your most recent employment along with the dates. Canadian employers prefer this type of resume because it allows them to quickly assess your employment history. It shows when and for how long you were unemployed as well as what type of work experience you have.
Show Your Employment Chronologically
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Electrical Engineer 2015 – 2021
Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)
Conducted research into the feasibility, design, operation and performance of electrical generation and distribution networks
Designed electrical and electronic circuits, components, systems, and equipment
Supervised and inspected the installation, modification, testing, and operation of electrical and electronic systems and equipment
Computer Programmer 2011 – 2015
Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)
Created, tested, debugged, documented, and implemented client-tracking software for Company Name utilizing skills in C# and VB.net
Worked directly with end-users to maximize efficiencies and user-friendliness
Employed strong communication skills to “Train the Trainers”
Customer Service Representative 2008 – 2011
Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)
Answered inquiries from customers in person and on the phone
Investigated and solved any customer concerns
Accurately processed financial transactions using computerized cash registers in a fast-paced environment.
When to Avoid the Chronological Type of Resume
You should avoid using this type of resume format for jobs if you:
have gaps in your work history
have insufficient work history
are transitioning into a new career with limited relevant experience.
You may want to consider writing a functional resume if the chronological resume format isn’t suitable for your needs.
The functional resume for jobs highlights your skills rather than work experience. This is the opposite of a chronological resume because the focus is not on your previous jobs. With a functional resume format, you will be able to highlight your most relevant skills and abilities. You will also be able to list your most relevant job experience. This will shade any employment gaps while still showing all your skills that are related to the role.
Functional resume formats for jobs are not the best way to present yourself to a potential employer. In fact, recruiters do not like functional resumes. Not only do they take time to make, but they are also hard to go through on the recruiter’s side.
This type of resume format is ideal for people that have gaps in their employment history. A chronological resume format will give away any of those gaps but a functional resume will hide them. Instead, a functional resume will present all your skills and accomplishments.
A functional resume format is good for:
students, or
people with new careers.
The main idea is that if you do not have an employment history relevant to the job you are applying for, functional resumes become useful. Just remember that employers usually value experience more than qualifications. This is why it is best to include at least some relevant experience in your resume.
If you feel like you have a successful work history and you also want to showcase your skills and accomplishments, you can use a hybrid resume.
Highlight Your Skills with a Functional Resume Format
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Manufacturing
Set up and qualified new equipment for wafer etching and packaging
Utilized statistical process control (SPC) in ISO 9001 2008 manufacturing environment
Analyzed failure mechanism (FMEA) to improve MTBF and yield improvement
Identified and troubleshot process, equipment, and operation-related issues
Management
Managed a construction project team of 2 engineers and 5 draftspersons
Supervised drafting of structural drawings, construction specifications and project schedules
Verified shop drawings, structural calculations and produced concrete precast element types
Reported project progress to customers according to their requirements
Estimating
Estimated quantities and costs of pre-cast concrete structures
Prepared contract documents and payment claims as well as negotiated with customers regarding cost variation
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
Project Chief 2005 – 2016 Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)
Structural Engineer 2002 – 2005 Company Name, City, Province, or Country (if not Canada)
3. The Hybrid Type of Resume Format
The third type of resume format for jobs is the hybrid resume, also known as a combination resume. It is a blend of chronological and functional resume formats. This resume format starts off by listing skills, qualifications, and achievements first. Then you move on to your employment history and work experience in reverse-chronological order.
A hybrid resume format for your resume will give you the chance to get the best of both worlds when done right. There are many situations in which a hybrid resume will be the best option for you.
If you are highly qualified in your profession and also have a successful work history, you will want to use the hybrid resume format. This type of resume format will allow you to showcase all of your qualifications as well as your work history. Your skills and qualifications will give the resume an eye-catching element while your employment timeline will show the employer you have the experience necessary for the job. A hybrid resume format is best for people that have both a good employment history and qualifications in their profession.
One of the best things about a hybrid resume format is that they are extremely flexible. You can include things such as education, training, relevant online courses, experience, previous jobs, and any accomplishments. With a hybrid resume, you can exclude any irrelevant facts about yourself and only include the things that matter to your employer and increase your chances of getting hired.
Key Takeaways
So to conclude, here is a brief summary of what type of resume format you should choose:
Chronological resume format: If you have a successful work history and adequate qualifications, you should choose a chronological resume format.
2. Functional resume format: If you do not have an employment history relevant to the role you are applying for, consider a functional resume format. This will allow you to showcase your qualifications, skills, and achievements.
3. Hybrid resume format: If you have a successful work history, and you also want to highlight your skills and accomplishments, a hybrid resume might be the best option for you.
Once you have chosen a resume format that works for you, you might be looking to build a Canadian-style resume that makes you stand out. Here is a helpful article that will give you 8 tips on how to write a Canadian-style resume.
A great addition to a resume is a cover letter. If you are serious about getting the job, a resume will not be enough. A cover letter is a great way to explain any employment gaps and explain why you are the perfect candidate for the job. Here is an article that will help you write an effective cover letter.
Choosing the right resume format could mean the difference between landing the job and getting rejected. It’s all about how you present yourself in front of your potential employers. Whether it be the skills you want to showcase or your employment history, choosing the right resume format will help you present yourself the way you want.
For information, tools, free webinars, and more visit our Finding a Job in Canada resource page. Get the help you need to achieve your career goals in Canada!
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.
When you move to Canada, there are many things to consider, and the process can be quite long. One of the biggest things you need to consider is how to transfer your money and belongings to Canada quickly and cost-effectively. Fortunately, you have many options when it comes to transferring money and belongings to your new home in Canada.
Transferring Your Money Before You Move to Canada
Before you move to Canada, you must find a safe and easy way to transfer your money. Fortunately, there are many ways you can transfer money from your home country before you move to Canada.
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Should You Open a Bank Account in Canada Before You Move?
When moving to Canada, you will have to make an important decision; should I open a Canadian bank account before I move or after I move to Canada? This decision will determine how effectively you can handle your finances once you move to Canada.
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Opening a bank account with a Canadian bank before you move is possible, though you need to know how to do it. However, it is usually better to open an account with a Canadian bank before you arrive than waiting until after you land. Opening a Canadian bank account before you move to Canada will make it easier to:
Focus your attention on other important activities, such as getting a job.
Some people prefer to open a Canadian bank account after they arrive. However, opening a Canadian bank account from outside Canada requires more documents and can be a little stressful. Some people prefer to open an account when they can talk to a professional face to face rather than completing the process online. If this sounds like you, then you can wait until after you arrive to open your Canadian bank account. Just remember that it’s possible to open a Canadian bank account before you move and many newcomers have done it in the past.
Now let’s look at some common ways to transfer your money to Canada.
1. Wire Transfer
Wire transfer is one of the easiest and simplest ways to transfer your money to Canada. However, you can only do this if you have already opened a bank account in Canada before you move to Canada. And with a Canadian bank account, you can simply send a wire transfer from your current bank account to your Canadian bank account.
It’s a good idea to open a bank account with one of the larger Canadian banks. This is simply because larger Canadian banks have branches all across Canada so they are easily accessible and efficient. The larger banks also usually offer better customer service. Here is a list of some of the larger banks in Canada:
Bank of Nova Scotia (ScotiaBank)
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD)
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC
Bank of Montreal (BMO)
After you open a Canadian bank account, you can send a wire transfer to your Canadian account. Once you arrive in Canada, you can easily access your funds from your Canadian bank account.
2. International Money Order
An international money order is one of the most common ways to transfer your money from your country of origin to Canada. It is a good option if you decide to open a Canadian bank account after you move to Canada. You will need to get an international money order from your current bank in your country of origin before you move to Canada.
When you arrive in Canada, you will need to open a bank account and deposit the money order to your Canadian bank. Most international money orders have a maximum limit of $1,000 per order. This means that you will have to buy multiple orders to deposit all your money in a Canadian bank.
This method of transferring your money is usually safer than carrying cash. This is because money orders are paper documents and only a few of them can be worth a lot of money. You will not have to carry a lot of these documents and unlike cash, they will fit into a small space.
It is important to note that you will not be able to use your money right away. Once you have deposited the money order into your Canadian bank, you will have to wait for some time before you can access your money. The wait time will vary depending on the bank, so ask your bank when you can access your money.
3. Cash
Cash is another option, though it may not be the safest way to transfer money to Canada. It might be a little hard to travel with all of your life savings. However, if you feel comfortable with carrying all your money as you move, Canada will allow you to do this.
Keep in mind that you will have to declare the amount of money you are carrying to the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA). You will only need to declare it if that money is valued at more than $10,000 in Canadian dollars. This money could already be in CAD or it could be foreign currency. This step is important to ensure that no illegal money is transferred into Canada.
If you are carrying more than CAD $10,000 and do not declare it, the CBSA has the authority to seize your money. You may have to pay a penalty of anywhere from CAD $250 to $5,000 to retrieve your money from the CBSA.
If you’re bringing a large amount of money with you, cash is not the best way to bring money into Canada. Cash can be hard to handle when there is a lot of it and there is always a chance of the money getting stolen.
Bringing Your Jewelry and Valuables When Moving to Canada
Most of the jewelry and valuables you bring to Canada when you are moving are duty-free. This means you will not have to pay any taxes on those items. There are some items that you might have to pay duty on. For example, you will have to pay duty on new items or items that still have tags on them.
Generally, you do not have to pay duty on any goods you bring when you move to Canada. However, once you have moved to Canada and are bringing back any valuables from abroad, those goods may be subject to duty. You will also need jewelry appraisal reports from a recognized Canadian jeweller for any jewelry you are carrying.
Bringing Your Personal Items When Moving to Canada
Canada will allow you to bring almost all of your personal belongings and items duty-free. Things such as silverware, pots and pans, and any other household items are duty-free. However, any new items that still have a tag on them are subject to duty so keep that in mind. Alcohol and tobacco are also subject to duty if you bring them in large amounts.
There are some goods that you are restricted to bring into Canada. These goods include weapons and firearms, fireworks, ammunition, and explosives. You are not allowed to bring any of these goods into Canada.
You can check out this comprehensive article by the Government of Canada to learn more about what you can bring to Canada and if it is subject to duty.
Deciding What to Move to Canada
Ideally, you don’t want to ship more than you have to since the cost of shipping is based on volume. You may decide that it’s less expensive to buy what you need when you arrive in Canada. You can always check out cost of furniture and other items you may need in Canada online and compare it to the cost of shipping. If replacement costs are higher, than shipping makes sense. You’ll also avoid the stress of shopping when you arrive. Another benefit of shipping your goods is that your have your familiar belongings from home.
If you have more goods than you can carry with you while travelling, you can ship your goods before you move to Canada. There are many options to ship your goods to Canada, some are considerably more expensive than others.
Shipping By Air or By Sea
There are two ways you can ship your goods to Canada: by sea and by air. Shipping by sea is cheaper than shipping by air but it is not as convenient. Firstly, shipping by sea can take a lot of time. You will have to ship all your goods a good while before your move to Canada so you can access them when you arrive. You may not want to do that if you need those goods until you move. Once your goods have arrived in Canada, you will have to pick them up from a warehouse. The goods will not be delivered to your house.
Your other option is to ship by air. As you may have guessed, shipping by air is a lot more expensive than shipping by sea. However, shipping by air is pretty fast. You will have the comfort of waiting until your move and then shipping the goods to Canada. But just like shipping your goods by sea, you will have to pick up your goods at a warehouse, or further pay a moving company to deliver the goods to your home in Canada.
So to summarize, shipping by sea is a good choice if you want to save money or ship a large number of your personal belongings. However, you’ll have to wait longer for your goods to arrive. Shipping by air might be a better option if you’re only shipping a few items to Canada. In the end, make sure to carry any essential items with you when you travel so you can access them when you arrive. Just ensure you do not exceed the weight and size restrictions your airline will allow.
10 Questions to Ask Every Moving Company
When selecting a moving company, ask questions to ensure they can meet your needs for your move to Canada.
Hiring a professional moving company for your move to Canada can help you understand what to ship, its costs, and most importantly the shipping and customs regulations. However, it’s vital to carefully evaluate the company that you select to move your valuable belongings. To assess potential movers, be sure to ask these important questions:
How long has your company been in the relocation industry?
2. Can you provide references?
3. What licensing and insurance can you provide?
4. What type of estimates do you require?
5. How do you charge for moves?
6. How will you protect my home?
7. How will you protect my belongings?
8. Do you have workers’ compensation insurance?
9. What is your claim process?
10. When will my shipment arrive?
Other Options When Shipping Your Goods
There is another cheaper alternative to storing your goods in a warehouse for pickup. If you have a friend or relative in the Canadian city you are moving to, they might be able to help you. If you do not have too many goods you are shipping, you can ship the goods to their home in Canada. Once you arrive in Canada, you can pick up your goods from their home. This will help you save money you would have had to pay to store your goods in Canada.
Insuring Your Belongings
When shipping your household belongings to Canada, you want them to arrive safely and without damage. Unfortunately, contents can be damaged during shipping. But if your goods are not insured, you cannot claim damages. It is understood that if you’re paying to ship bulky items to Canada, then their value must be high. Therefore it’s crucial to pay for insurance to ensure the safety of your belongings and give you peace of mind.
Usually, it is better to consider the cost of insurance as part of the shipping costs. This leaves you with no option but to pay for the insurance as well, which is a good choice by all means. To determine and prioritize your budget for the insurance, always make a comprehensive list of what you are shipping and how much it would cost if you have to replace it all in Canada.
For more information about your financial first steps in Canada, visit our banking in Canada resource page. Get the essential information you need to manage your finances in Canada!
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.
Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade along Lakeshore Blvd in Toronto
Canada is often associated with long and cold winters, so people look forward to cherished summer festivals in cities across the country. And, these summer festivals in 2023 are worth joining! While there might be some truth to the claim that Canada is cold, it’s not just a country defined by its winters. In fact, Canada is home to some of the biggest and grandest festivals out there. New to Canada? Explore some of its most thrilling summer festivals in 2023. From comedy and live music shows to fireworks competitions, Canada never runs low on exciting summer events!
Check out these Exciting Summer Festivals in 2023
Calgary Stampede
Where: Calgary, Alberta
When: July 7 – 16, 2023
Calgary hosts a 10-day summer festival each year known as the Calgary Stampede
Calgary, and Western Canada in general, has a long farming history. And, most aspects of people’s lives revolved around running the family farm before Canada became a country. Specifically, cattle ranches were the most common type of farm present around Calgary and most of Alberta. So to embrace its modest origins, Calgary hosts a ten-day summer festival each year known as the Calgary Stampede.
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The Calgary Stampede is the biggest rodeo event in Canada and among the top rodeos in North America. And, the main attraction is the tournament-style rodeo events.
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It also has many other fun activities. Another unique activity during the Calgary Stampede is the free pancake breakfast. That’s right. Calgarians get to enjoy a free pancake breakfast during the Stampede that serves until 10 AM. You also get free admission to the Calgary Stampede if you arrive before 11 AM.
If you plan to visit Stampede City and join the summer fun, click here to learn more.
Honda Celebration of Light, 2023
Where: Vancouver, British Columbia
When: July 22, 26, 29, 2023
Catch the fireworks display at this spectacular summer festival in Vancouver, BC
The Honda Celebration of Light is the biggest fireworks competition in the world. It is also the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the world. In 2023, three countries will compete: Australia, Mexico, and The Philippines. The fireworks take place over English Bay in Vancouver, British Columbia. Morton Park, which is close to where the fireworks are happening, will host live music events, food trucks, and activities for everyone.
For more details about this spectacular summer festival, or to buy tickets, you can visit the event website.
The Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, Quebec is the biggest comedy festival in the world! Since 1983, this lively event continues to bring a smile to Canadians’ faces. To learn more about Just For Laughs 2023, click here.
Edmonton Heritage Festival
Where: Edmonton, Alberta
When: Aug 5 – 7, 2023
Canada has achieved what so many countries have failed to achieve in the past. That achievement is building a culturally accepting environment where people from different backgrounds can live together in peace. To celebrate this achievement, Edmonton hosts the largest celebration of multiculturalism in the world.
The Edmonton Heritage Festival is a fun and light-hearted three-day event that celebrates the beautiful cultures present in our country. The festival represents over 60 nations that each set up their outdoor pavilions at Hawrelak Park in Edmonton. From traditional live music to iconic cultural foods, the Edmonton Heritage Festival has something for everyone. It is a great way to have some fun while also learning about the wonderful cultures that make up Canada.
To learn more about the Edmonton Heritage Festival, click here.
Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana)
Where: Toronto, Ontario
When: August 3 – 7, 2023
A highlight of this summer festival is the stunning Caribbean costumes that people wear.
It is only fitting that Canada’s largest festival takes place in Toronto, its largest city. Caribana is North America’s largest carnival. Also known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival this event celebrates Caribbean culture. The highly-anticipated carnival represents almost all Caribbean cultures and gets its unique theme from all Caribbean Islands.
The festival is now officially known as Toronto Caribbean Carnival. Many still know the festival as, “Caribana”, which is what you get when you mix the words, “Caribbean”, and “Canada”. At this summer festival, you’ll discover anything and everything Caribbean. From Caribbean music to food, the carnival has something for everyone. After all, it is the largest carnival in North America. Some other things you can expect are people in Caribbean clothing and costumes, Caribbean dances, and other traditions found in the Caribbean Islands. To learn more about the Toronto Caribbean Carnival 2023, click here.
These are just some of the many summer festivals taking place in 2023. Each part of Canada has its own unique way of celebrating the summer. If you’re searching for summer festivals in 2023 taking place in your local community, you can look them up online.
At the end of the day, summer is all about relaxing, spending time with your loved ones, and doing what you love. Whether you attend a large summer festival or just take a walk in the park, make sure you enjoy the wonderful events that Canada has to offer.
For more information, tools, and free webinars about living in Canada visit our Settling in Canada resource page. We’ll help you to settle in Canada successfully.
My name is Zain Usmani and I am a freelance content writer who currently resides in Mississauga, Ontario. I immigrated from Pakistan to Canada 5 years ago and have lived in many cities ever since. I have lived in Calgary AB, Edmonton AB, Regina SK, London ON, and Mississauga ON, while visiting over 40 Canadian cities and towns. I have a great passion for writing and I love helping people through it.
