International Parcel Delivery | Blog

Buy an iPhone in Canada with a Physical SIM Option & Ship Internationally

Written by Jet Team | September 09, 2024

Phone manufacturers—including Apple—are moving toward eSIM. If your carrier doesn’t support eSIM yet, purchasing an eligible iPhone model from Canada can be a practical solution. Jet Worldwide and partners can help you purchase in Canada and ship internationally with tracking and insurance.

How It Works: Purchase in Canada, Ship Worldwide

  • Order your iPhone from Apple.ca or an authorized Canadian retailer.
  • Ship to your assigned JetShip address (with an approved reference).
  • Receive confirmation of receipt from JetShip.
  • Your iPhone is forwarded to you via express courier with tracking and optional insurance.

Tip: Model availability and SIM tray support vary by region and model number. Always verify your local network compatibility before purchase.

Model & SIM Notes

Apple removed the physical SIM tray from US iPhone models beginning with iPhone 14, making them eSIM-only. In other regions (including many sold in Canada), some models may include a nano-SIM tray and/or dual eSIM. Always confirm the exact model number and SIM support with your carrier.

As eSIM adoption grows, many carriers now support eSIM activations; however, coverage is not yet universal in some countries (e.g., parts of the Caribbean). If your carrier lacks eSIM, consider a Canadian model with a nano-SIM tray (where available).

Visit Apple Support for current eSIM carrier listings by country.

Sample International Shipping Costs for iPhones (Canada ➜ Destination)

Final pricing depends on chargeable weight, box size, destination, and service level. Use these illustrative ranges for budgeting, then request an exact quote.

Lower Your Cost

  1. Use a sturdy outer carton but do not overpack to reduce dimensional weight.
  2. Consider economy express vs. premium priority
  3. Leverage our consolidation for certain Caribbean lanes.
  4. For multiple devices, compare one consolidated box vs. separate parcels (mind lithium battery and export rules).

Compliance Snapshot

  • Export declaration (Canada): For personal shipments under CAD 2,000, a CERS export declaration is generally not required. Multiple phones or higher values may require CERS.
  • Lithium batteries: Must ship as installed in the device; follow carrier packing limits.
  • HS codes: Many smartphones classify under 8517.12 (confirm per destination).

Disclaimer: The information in all Jet Worldwide online content, including this post, is for general information only.

Regional Notes & Examples

Trinidad & Tobago / Caribbean

eSIM adoption is expanding but not universal. If your carrier does not yet support eSIM, sourcing a Canadian model with a nano-SIM tray (where available) can help. We provide end-to-end forwarding from Canada with tracking.

Colombia: IMEI & Reference Field

When importing iPhones to Colombia, include the IMEI and HS code in the reference field.
Example: IMEI123456789012345 HS8517130000

  • Indicate if the phone is new or used.
  • Import commonly limited to one (1) phone per shipment without accessories.
Purchase in Canada • Verified model • Tracked forwarding

FAQs: Buying in Canada & Shipping iPhones Internationally

Do Canadian iPhone models have a physical SIM tray?

Some non-US models include a nano-SIM tray; others are eSIM-only. Always confirm the exact Canadian model number and SIM support with your carrier before you buy.

Can I ship an iPhone if my carrier doesn’t support eSIM?

Yes—choose a model with a nano-SIM tray (where available) or wait until your carrier supports eSIM. We can help you source and forward from Canada.

What are typical shipping costs and transit times?

Most phone-size parcels arrive in ~3–7 business days via economy express, depending on the final address and customs clearance. 

Do I need a Canadian export declaration?

Personal shipments valued under CAD 2,000 generally do not require CERS. Multiple phones or higher values may trigger CERS. 

How many phones can I ship at once?

Consider three factors: export value limits (≥ CAD 2,000 may require CERS), lithium battery packing limits, and destination import thresholds. 

Can I insure the shipment?

Yes. Optional coverage is typically 1–2% of declared value. Provide a proof of value (invoice or receipt).

Are US iPhone models eSIM-only?

Yes. Apple removed the SIM tray from US models starting with iPhone 14. If you need a nano-SIM, verify a Canadian or other non-US variant that supports it.

Partner with Jet Worldwide

Our experts provide personalized support to ensure your shipments are classified correctly, delivered on time, and fully compliant.

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