historic building in old port of Montreal

Guide to Canada Free Trade and International Shipping Options

Shipping from Canada: Quick Overview

Best for Small Items (under 2kg) Canada Post Small Packet
Best for Commercial Speed FedEx, UPS, DHL and Jet Worldwide
Best for Duty Savings CUSMA, CETA, and CPTPP Free Trade
Best for Specialized Logistics Jet Worldwide

Canada is a country that has been built on international trade. Today, exports and imports represent over 60% of Canada's economic output, which is one of the highest ratios among the G7 countries.

Internet-driven innovations are opening new opportunities, and Canadians rely on innovative parcel logistics to access global markets. Canadian companies depend on global sources to support various stages of production and final sale.

Canada and UK free trade agreement visual

Update on Free Trade Between Canada and the UK

Canada and the UK have an agreement to continue preferential duty-free status, effectively replicating the CETA tariff benefits under the Trade Continuity Agreement (TCA).

Key Fact: Goods that meet CUKTCA rules of origin qualify for preferential duty-free import to the UK. Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff rates apply to goods that do not meet these origin requirements.


Free Trade for Duty-Free Shipping to the EU and Asia

In addition to the existing CUSMA agreement, Canada's trade agreements with Europe (CETA) and Asia (CPTPP) make it easier for Canadian companies to ship globally. Businesses can benefit from preferential duty-free import status when shipping to these regions.

Verify global duty-free access from Canada

Infographic of Canada's global free trade network

While free trade agreements have been a success, technology is now the key enabler for international trade. Having effective parcel logistics is an essential element to furthering global commerce.


Proof of Origin Requirements for Free Trade Agreements

All Canadian free trade agreements, including CETA, CPTPP, and CUSMA, require a certificate of origin. You can read our detailed guide here: Certification of Origin Explained.


International parcel post delivery icon

International Shipping via Canada Post

Canada Post offers several options, from the Priority Worldwide service to the United States to the economical Small Packet service. For international delivery, they provide express parcel delivery and low-cost options for smaller items.

Comparison of Canada Post international shipping services

These options work best when delivered by strong postal partners such as La Poste in France, Deutsche Post in Germany, Royal Mail in the UK, Japan Post, and the United States Postal Service (USPS).


Shipping Cargo versus Courier from Canada

The size and weight of your shipments are the major factors when deciding between post, courier, or cargo. For personal packages, Canada Post is often the best choice. For commercial packages, global couriers like FedEx, UPS, and DHL are preferable.

  • Air Cargo: Typically delivers within one week.
  • Ocean Cargo: Averages between one to three months for door-to-door delivery.
  • Pallet Shipping: For shipments up to 100 kilograms, air freight often provides a better price than ocean freight due to various surcharges.

Read more about ocean shipping from Canada.


Shipping Commercial Packages from Canada

International Shipping via FedEx and UPS Canada

FedEx and UPS are the largest carriers in North America. Along with DHL, they offer reliable international shipping options from Canada, including air express priority and air economy services.

Get a low spot quote for shipments over 10 kg

International Shipping via Purolator

Purolator is a market leader for delivery within Canada. Their international shipping from Canada is typically provided by partner carriers such as UPS Canada.


International Shipping via Jet Worldwide

Jet Worldwide has provided international delivery and logistics solutions from Canada for over 30 years. Our network includes unique solutions for distribution in the European Union, the Caribbean, South America, and Asia.

  • Shipping platforms with low costs from Canada.
  • Canada and US addresses for reverse logistics and returns.
  • Section 321 high-volume parcel import to the USA.
  • Amazon removal order management.
Get a shipping quote

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