The Complete Guide to Shipping to Italy from Canada (Updated for 2026)

Shipping to Italy from Canada

Canadian exports to Italy total over $2 billion annually, making reliable logistics between the two nations essential. Whether you are fulfilling e-commerce orders or sending commercial freight, Canadian companies rely on low-cost shipping to Italy from Canada to stay competitive.

Table of  Contents

• Customs update for low value e-commerce imports
• Shipping Options
• Air versus Ocean
• Canadian carrier options
• VAT Rules for Italian Imports
• Italian Customs
• EORI Number
• Tariff Classification for Italian Imports
• Duty Free Import via CETA/li>
• FAQ's
• Additional Resources for Exporters

2026 Important Update: EU Customs for Parcel Imports

Effective July 2026, customs rules are changing for parcel imports to Italian and European consumers valued at less than €150. The standard €3 duty for parcel imports will now be multiplied by each distinct item category contained within the parcel, based on tariff sub-headings.

Example Calculation:

• The Order: 1 silk blouse, 2 wool blouses and 1 phone charger.  Value €145
• The Assessment: Silk and wool have different tariff sub-headings and the phone charger is a different category. This means there are three distinct categories in the box.
• The Cost: 3 categories multiplied by €3 equals:  €9 total customs duty.

Please note: An additional €2 handling fee will apply starting in November 2026.

VAT Rules for Imports to Italy

All imports to the European Union are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT). The standard VAT rate in Italy is 22 percent, though lower rates may apply to specific items like books. For e-commerce businesses selling directly to consumers, the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) allows for the pre-payment of VAT, streamlining the customs process.

VAT is calculated on the cost of goods, plus duty. Using the example above:

• Cost of goods: €145
• Duty and handling: €11
• Value subject to VAT:€156
• VAT: €156 *22% =€34.32

Italian Customs Clearance Basics

Parcel shipping to Italy follows processes similar to most other European countries. A commercial invoice is mandatory. You must provide a document supporting the basis for duty calculated on the CIF Value (the combined value of the goods, insurance, plus shipping).

Do You Need an EORI Number?

Before shipping from Canada to a business in Italy, you must verify the consignee possesses an EORI number. An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is required for European businesses importing commercial goods. However, if you are shipping to a private individual for personal use, an EORI number is not necessary.

HS Codes for Italian Imports

The tariff classification for Italian imports relies on the European Commission Combined Nomenclature (CN). The system consists of three components:

• Harmonized System: Chapters (2 digits), headings (4 digits), plus subheadings (6 digits).
• Combined Nomenclature: EU-specific codes via an eight-digit coding system.
• TARIC: Provides information on specific tariff measures, such as anti-dumping duties.

Duty-Free Clearance: CETA Rules of Origin

European Union countries and Canada benefit from the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The most significant benefit is the possibility of duty-free import for goods that officially originate in Canada.

Simply purchasing an item in Canada and shipping it does not automatically grant country of origin status. The product must undergo sufficient transformation within Canada. There are two main methods for determining origin:

• Change of Tariff Classification: The product undergoes a sufficient change in its tariff classification due to production in Canada.
• Regional Value Content: The product has the necessary percentage of its value added within Canada.

CETA Country of Origin Declaration

A separate Certificate of Origin is not strictly necessary for CETA. An origin declaration can be placed directly on the commercial invoice. The Canadian Border Services Agency recommends the origin declaration explicitly state "Canada/EU" for qualifying goods.

Best Shipping Options to Italy from Canada

There are several shipping options available. The best choice depends entirely on the weight, size, urgency, and nature of your shipment.

Sea Freight vs. Air Freight

If you are shipping a large or heavy commercial consignment on a budget, ocean shipping is the ideal option. Your freight will travel on cargo vessels in standard 20-foot or 40-foot containers.

• FCL (Full Container Load): You pay for the exclusive use of a container.
• LCL (Less than Container Load): You share container space with other shipments, making it cost-effective for a few pallets.
• Air Freight: The fastest way to ship. While the cost per kilogram is higher, air freight avoids the many minimum fees associated with ocean shipments, making it cheaper for cargo under 100 kilograms.

Carrier Options for Packages and Parcels

For smaller shipments, postal services and commercial couriers are the standard:

• Canada Post: The lowest-cost option for individuals shipping personal items. Packets are handed over to Poste Italiane for final delivery.
• FedEx and UPS: These major carriers provide premium express shipping from Canada to Italy, typically delivering in 3 to 4 days via Economy Air.
• Jet Worldwide: A trusted Canadian brand providing international shipping logistics for over 40 years, offering discounted rates and dedicated support. Get our lowest spot quote for heavy parcels (over 5 kilograms) and commercial shipments.

Sample Shipping Prices to Italy (Guide Only)

Please note: These estimates are for guidance only. Final billed rates vary based on fuel surcharges, exact dimensions, delivery address, plus your account discount level.

Dimensional Weight Shipping Calculator

Carriers charge based on actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is greater. Enter your dimensions below to estimate your chargeable weight.

Quick Answers: Shipping to Italy

• What is the cheapest shipping method? For small personal parcels under 2 kg, Canada Post surface options offer the lowest cost.
• Will I pay duty or VAT? VAT of 22 percent applies to most imports. Keep in mind the new 2026 customs updates for per-category duties on low-value parcels. CETA rules may eliminate duties entirely for Canada-origin goods.
• Do I need an EORI number? Italian businesses importing from Canada require an EORI number. Private consumer shipments do not.