Lane Facts
| Distance | 370 km / 230 mi |
| Typical transit | 1 day (estimate) |
| Main highways | Highway 401 West, I-75 |
| Equipment | Dry Van |
| Border crossing | Ambassador Bridge (Windsor, ON – Detroit, MI) |
Customs
Crossing the border on this lane
Carriers need a completed customs manifest before reaching the bridge — a PARS number for freight entering the US, or a PAPS number for freight entering Canada. FAST card membership (for both the carrier and driver) significantly speeds up the crossing during peak hours.
Risks & Considerations
- Border wait times at the Ambassador Bridge vary significantly by time of day and day of week — check current conditions before dispatching.
- Automotive-plant shutdowns or ramp-ups on either side of the border can cause sudden capacity swings on this lane.
FAQ
Toronto to Detroit — common questions
What's needed to cross the border on this lane?
A completed customs manifest with a PARS or PAPS number, and ideally a FAST card for both carrier and driver to use the dedicated FAST lanes.
Why is automotive freight so common here?
Windsor–Detroit is North America's busiest commercial border crossing, largely driven by just-in-time automotive parts moving between assembly plants on both sides.