Quick summary: This guide helps individuals, e-commerce sellers, and businesses choose the best way to ship from Canada to the United Kingdom — comparing Canada Post, express couriers (FedEx, UPS, DHL), Jet Worldwide consolidated air, and ocean freight (LCL/FCL). It also covers customs, VAT, documentation, and cost-saving tips.
How much does shipping to the UK from Canada cost?
Prices depend on weight, dimensions (chargeable weight), service level, and the delivery address. Below are representative sample prices (approximate) to help planning.
| Carrier / Mode | Sample weight | Service | Approx. cost (CAD) | Transit time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Post | 2 kg | Surface | $30–$45 | 30+ days |
| Canada Post | 2 kg | Air | $70–$90 | 7–14 days |
| Jet Worldwide (consolidated) | 10 kg | Economy Air | $150–$220 | 5–8 days |
| Courier (FedEx / UPS / DHL) | 5 kg | Express | $200–$350 | 2–3 days |
| Ocean (LCL/FCL) | per pallet / container | FCL / LCL | Depends on route | 4–8+ weeks |
Shipping options — when to use each mode
Canada Post
Best for individuals and very small parcels. Canada Post’s Royal Mail partnership covers last‑mile delivery in the UK. Surface is cheapest but slowest; Xpresspost and air options are faster but cost more.
Express Couriers (FedEx, UPS, DHL)
Use for time-sensitive or higher-value shipments. These carriers offer reliable tracking, fast customs clearance options, and premium support. Watch dimension (volumetric) pricing and fuel surcharges.
Consolidated / Third‑party (Jet Worldwide / parcel brokers)
Great for e‑commerce sellers and SMBs seeking lower landed cost. Consolidation and zone‑jumping can reduce last‑mile charges. We provide integrated clearance and DPD final‑mile in the UK.
Ocean Freight (LCL / FCL)
Choose ocean for heavy/bulky shipments, pallets, and containers. LCL shares container space; FCL uses a full container. Ocean has a lower per‑kg base rate but longer transit and additional surcharges.
Partner with Jet Worldwide
Our experts provide personalized support to ensure your shipments are classified correctly, delivered on time, and fully compliant.
Request a Quote Talk to an ExpertHow to ship a package to the UK from Canada (step-by-step)
- Choose the right carrier and service based on weight, value, and timeline.
- Confirm prohibited/restricted goods (food, batteries, controlled items).
- Prepare documentation: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading / airway bill.
- Declare correct HS code and value (CIF if requested by customs).
- Consider whether DDP (Delivery Duty Paid) or DDU is appropriate for your customer.
- Purchase insurance if shipment value justifies it; photograph packaging before shipment.
Shipping personal effects, gifts & special categories
Personal effects (household moves)
For Transfer of Residence relief in the UK you must apply for a URN (Unique Reference Number) via HMRC and include an itemized packing list. For moderate sized moves (100–200 lb), economy air is often best; for full household moves, use ocean movers.
Gifts
Gifts to individuals under £40 (approx. CAD 70) may be duty/VAT exempt. The commercial invoice must clearly state the item description and value; avoid listing simply as "gift".
Food
Many foods are restricted. If you must ship food, follow CFIA and UK rules (non‑perishable, manufacturer sealed, less than 1 kg where applicable). We generally advise against shipping food unless you have confirmed eligibility.
Customs clearance: duties, VAT & EORI
- Low‑value consignments: Goods under £135: VAT applies; duty often exempt.
- Over £135: VAT and duties apply as per commodity code and origin.
- CUKTCA: Canada‑UK Trade Continuity Act may provide duty relief for qualifying Canadian origin goods.
- EORI: UK importers should provide their EORI number for clearance. Ask your consignee for it.
Important: Accurate HS codes, country of origin, and commercial invoices speed clearance and reduce risk of additional assessments.
Documents required
- Commercial invoice (clear description, value, incoterm)
- Packing list
- Bill of lading / airway bill
- Certificate of origin (when claiming preferential duties under CUKTCA)
- Export declaration from Canada for shipments over CAD $2,000 (B13/CERS)
Insurance & claims
Carrier declared value insurance is limited; consider third‑party marine insurance for valuable goods. Insufficient packaging is a frequent cause of claim denial — photograph items before shipping.
Shipping ocean freight (LCL vs FCL)
LCL is suitable for a pallet or two; allow extra time for consolidation and deconsolidation (often 4–8+ weeks door‑to‑door). FCL suits full container loads — faster door‑to‑door and less handling.
Tips to reduce sea freight cost
- Book early and avoid peak season.
- Consolidate shipments and optimize packaging.
- Include certificate of origin where applicable.
- Confirm HS codes to avoid higher-than-expected duties.
DPD and final‑mile delivery
We partner with DPD for competitive last‑mile delivery across the UK. Direct shipping to the UK reduces processing steps and can lower landed costs for e‑commerce sellers.
Export declaration requirement
Canada requires an export declaration for shipments with value over CAD $2,000. Check CERS/B‑13 requirements before shipping commercial consignments.
Frequently asked questions
Is shipping from Canada to the UK duty free?
Not always. Low value shipments under £135 can be duty exempt; however VAT still applies. Duty relief may apply under CUKTCA for qualifying Canadian origin products.
How fast is express courier service?
Typical express courier transit to the UK is 2 business days from major Canadian gateways; economy air and postal services are slower.
What is chargeable weight?
Carriers charge the higher of actual weight or volumetric (dimensional) weight. Verify chargeable weight rules for each carrier.
Resources & downloads
Download the accompanying PDF guide
Get a quote / Contact
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Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general guidance only. Check current carrier rates, HMRC rules, and Canada export requirements before shipping.
