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.
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.
Please note: An additional €2 handling fee will apply starting in November 2026.
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:
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).
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.
The tariff classification for Italian imports relies on the European Commission Combined Nomenclature (CN). The system consists of three components:
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:
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.
There are several shipping options available. The best choice depends entirely on the weight, size, urgency, and nature of your shipment.
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.
[Image of cargo ship loaded with standard shipping containers]For smaller shipments, postal services and commercial couriers are the standard:
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.
| Chargeable Weight (kg) | Sample Price (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 5.0 | $170 |
| 7.5 | $206 |
| 10.0 | $241 |
| 12.5 | $276 |
| 15.0 | $311 |
Carriers charge based on actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is greater. Enter your dimensions below to estimate your chargeable weight.