The economic ties between Italy and Canada are growing rapidly due to online e-commerce and the Canadian European Free Trade Agreement (CETA). Italy is among Canada's largest trading partners, boasting strong cultural, academic, and interpersonal contacts.
There is a significant amount of other trade between the two countries as well, including trade in raw materials, electronics, and other manufactured products. Italy is well-known for its expertise in the production of high-quality machinery and equipment, while Canadian consumers have a strong appetite for Italian food and fashion.
Table of Contents
2026 Important Update: EU Customs for Parcel Import to Italian consumers less than €150
Effective July 2026, the €3 duty for parcel imports will be multiplied by each distinct item category (based on tariff sub-headings) contained within the parcel.
Example Calculation:
- The Order: 1 leather wallet + 2 cotton t-shirts + 1 polyester blend t-shirt
- The Assessment: Leather accessories, cotton apparel, and denim apparel all have different tariff headings sub-headings, meaning there are three distinct categories in the box.
- The Cost: 3 categories x €3 = €9 total customs duty.
Note: An additional €2 handling fee will apply (November 2026).
Logistics solutions for over 40 years!
Understanding the Shipping Process from Canada to Italy
The basic process is to first determine the best shipping mode: Local post, courier, air freight and/or ocean.
Required Documentation and Customs Regulations
Export Declaration:
Goods valued over $2,000 (or otherwise restricted) must be declared prior to export. Read more about the Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS).
Invoice for Customs:
All goods imported to Italy must be accompanied by an invoice for customs. Useful information explaining what is needed on an invoice for customs.
Import Permits and Declarations:
Before shipping to Italy, confirm the consignee has the necessary import permits.
Businesses in Italy must provide an EORI number. An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identification number assigned to businesses operating in Italy and other European Union countries. It is used to identify and track customs transactions to ensure that customs duties and taxes are paid correctly.
The EORI number exists out of two parts:
- The country code of the issuing Member State; followed by
- A code or number that is unique in the Member State
CETA Certificate of Origin
Goods that qualify under the origin rules of the Canadian European Free Trade Agreement must be accompanied by a certificate of origin.
Verify if a certificate of origin is needed when shipping to Italy.
Prohibited and Restricted Items to Italy:
It is important to confirm the restrictions and regulations with Italy authorities prior to shipping. Goods that are prohibited or restricted from import to Italy include:
- Illegal drugs
- Counterfeit money and goods
- Hazardous waste
- Offensive materials (such as hate speech or propaganda)
- Endangered species of plants and animals (CITES protected species)
- Weapons and ammunition (unless proper permits are obtained)
- Pirated software, movies, and music
- Certain chemicals
- Pornography that is illegal under Italian law
- Tobacco products (only allowed in limited quantities for personal use)
Download our accompanying PDF guide.
Shipping Time and Cost Considerations
Transit Time Estimates
The fastest transit time to Italy is 2 business days with most carriers. Economy air can take 3-5 business days. Ocean freight generally takes 1-2 months. Canada Post services generally are delivered within 1-2 weeks.
Shipping Cost Estimates to Italy
The cost of shipping to Italy depends on the size and weight of the shipments. Most carriers have online rate and transit times tools. Get a comparison shipping rate to Italy.
Low Cost Shipping to Italy from Canada
Cost-Effective Shipping Solutions
The cheapest way to ship a package to Italy is usually via Canada Post surface options. The cost for up to 4 pounds (2 kilograms) averages around less than $40.
The cost to ship to Italy depends on the package size, weight, and destination in Italy. The cost for up to 10 pounds (4 kilograms) can be around $170, but this depends on the level of discount with your carrier.
Contact our team for our lowest spot quote for shipments over 40 kilograms.
Canada's Free Trade Agreements
Canada has free trade agreements with most of the world's leading economies, including European Union countries. Verify the benefits of Canada's free trade agreements.
Safe and Secure Delivery Services
Shipping insurance can be obtained directly from the carrier or via third parties. The most important part of insurance is proper packaging and accurate documentation.
Verify your goods are properly insured to Italy.
Popular Delivery Options for Shipping to Italy from Canada
Air Freight Shipping
Fast and convenient for larger shipments. Our team can provide air freight quotes.
Sea Freight Shipping
A cost-effective shipping option for large commercial orders and shipping containers. The major ocean ports in Italy include:
- Port of Genoa: This is the largest port in Italy
- Port of Trieste and Venice: Located on the northeastern coast
- Port of Livorno and La Spezia: On the western coast of Italy
Express Delivery Services
Canada Post Small Packets and Express Options
- Small Packet Delivery to Italy: Surface, Air, and "Tracked"
- International Parcel to Italy: Surface and "Xpresspost"
Shipping to Italy from Canada - FedEx, UPS, and DHL
FedEx and UPS Canadian shipping options to Italy include:
- Priority Express Delivery to Italy
- Economy Express Delivery to Italy
Delivery to Italy from Canada via Jet Worldwide
Jet Worldwide: A trusted brand with the best international shipping options for over 40 years!
How to Choose the Best Shipping Company for Your Needs
Reputation and Experience of the Shipping Company
All the carriers listed in this post are reliable and trustworthy. They include Kuhn and Nagel (freight), Canada Post, FedEx, DHL, UPS, and their partners (such as Jet Worldwide, of course!).
In addition to the major carriers, be aware of some websites that claim "over 50% savings." While many of these sites do offer valid shipping options, most lack true international expertise and support.
Read our detailed post regarding shipping to Italy from Canada.
Shipping Services and Options Offered for E-commerce
Tailored Shipping Solutions
Jet's tailored solutions include delivery duty paid, e-commerce import and delivery via DPD, storage, and logistics support. Visit JetWorldwide.com/contact to learn more.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general information only.
