Shipping Options from Canada to Europe
Trans-Atlantic trade remains a major economic contributor to Canada. With the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and Europe, Canadian origin goods can clear duty-free into France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and across the entire EU.
For cross-border shipping of e-commerce orders to Europe, there are three main components: Airlift, Customs Clearance, and Last-Mile Delivery. The challenge lies in classifying and clearing thousands of orders efficiently. Ocean freight can also be an option for larger shipments.
Build processes to ship direct to Europe, from Europe.
Jet Worldwide connects Canada with the European Union via partnerships with leading carriers and innovative pre-labeling and direct injection solutions. Contact Jet's logistics team to expand your reach to the European market.
Download Accompanying PDF Guide
Compare Shipping Options: Canada Post vs Couriers vs Freight
Choosing the right option depends on shipment size, speed, and budget. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Service | Best For | Transit Time | Cost Level | Tracking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Post | Individuals, small parcels under 2kg | Surface: 4–6 weeks Air: 6–12 days Xpresspost: 5–7 days |
💲 (lowest) | Basic to full (depends on service) |
| Couriers (FedEx, UPS, DHL) | E-commerce, time-sensitive up to 70kg | Express: 2–4 days Economy: 4–7 days |
💲💲💲 (higher) | End-to-end, detailed |
| Air Freight | Commercial 100–500kg | 3–7 days (airport-to-airport) | 💲💲 (mid-range per kg) | Forwarder + airline tracking |
| Ocean Freight | Large orders 500kg+ | 30–60 days | 💲 (lowest per kg) | Container tracking |
Shipping to Europe from Canada: Key Considerations
- How CETA allows duty-free clearance for Canadian-origin goods
- Shipping methods: Postal, courier, air freight, ocean freight
- Customs clearance requirements and VAT obligations
- IOSS for e-commerce shipments under €150
- UK vs EU post-Brexit distribution strategies
- Carrier options: Canada Post, FedEx, DHL, UPS
Shipping To Europe - FROM - Europe!
All the options mentioned above are - frankly - fairly obvious. The way to get lower unit delivery costs is to ship in bulk to Europe for distribution from Europe. This comes with downside of minimum volumes and fixed costs. But setting this up is truly the only way to build any significant volume. Thinks of an Amazon type service but using an independent facility in France. This is what our team can offer.
Expand your cross-border transportation and logistics options with Jet Worldwide.
What Does It Cost to Ship to Europe?
For small packages, Canada Post is often the cheapest option. A package of 2kg via surface mail costs around $30, while 10lb (4.5kg) via courier may be $120–$150. Larger shipments benefit from air or ocean freight pricing.
Best Ways to Lower Costs
- Consolidate shipments into fewer, larger consignments
- Use Canada Post small packet services for personal parcels
- Negotiate courier discounts or use third-party providers
- Leverage CETA duty-free import status
- Book ocean freight early to secure lower rates
- Access a facility in France for delivery across France and Europe
Duty Free – But With VAT
Under CETA, Canadian-origin goods can clear into the EU duty-free. However, VAT applies to all imports. For e-commerce shipments under €150, the IOSS (Import One Stop Shop) allows VAT to be prepaid at checkout for a smoother delivery.
Read more about VAT and IOSS solutions here.
Canadian Export and EU Import Compliance
Shipments from Canada over CAD $2,000 require a Canadian Export Declaration. Imports to the EU require:
- Invoice with tariff classification (HS Code)
- Correct valuation for customs (CIF basis)
- Country of origin declaration for CETA benefits
- Compliance with labeling (French & English required)
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general informational purposes only. Contact Jet Worldwide for the latest shipping updates and compliance support.
