To help answer the many inquiries we get on Shipping to the United States from Canada, we are pleased to provide this updated 2026 guide on US customs, USMCA/CUSMA free trade, and how to choose the right carrier.
Benefit from best-in-class logistics support between Canada and North America. Whether you are an e-commerce seller or an industrial manufacturer, choosing between Postal, Courier, or Trucking is the first step to optimizing your costs.
READ ABOUT SECURING A DUTY REFUND FOR IEEPA TARIFFS
📥 Download the PDF Guide: Principles of Importing to the USA
The Big 3: Courier vs. Trucking vs. Postal
There is no "one size fits all" solution. The best option depends entirely on your volume, weight, and urgency.
Postal (Canada Post)
Best for: Individuals and low-volume e-commerce sending light parcels under 2 kg.
Pros: No residential surcharges; usually no brokerage fees for low value.
Express Courier
Best for: Urgent documents, time-sensitive parcels, and high-value goods.
Pros: Detailed tracking, reliable delivery, integrated customs clearance.
Trucking (LTL/FTL)
Best for: Pallets, bulk inventory, and heavy industrial equipment.
Pros: Lowest cost per kg for large shipments; flexible pickup options.
Comparison Table: Shipping Modes to the USA
| Feature | Canada Post (Packet) | Courier (FedEx/UPS Ground) | Courier (Express Air) | Trucking (LTL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | Slow (1-3 Weeks) | Medium (4-7 Days) | Fast (1-2 Days) | Medium (5-8 Days) |
| Tracking | Limited | Full Visibility | Real-Time | Milestone Only |
| Customs Brokerage | Included (Usually) | High Fees (Unless under $800) | Included | Requires Broker |
| Best Weight | Under 2 kg | 2 kg to 68 kg | Under 50 kg | Over 100 kg |
Required Documentation for US Customs
The most common reason for delays is paperwork. Whether you ship via Post or Courier, accuracy is key.
1. The Commercial Invoice
This is the passport for your goods. It must include:
- Shipper and Consignee: Full name, address, and phone numbers.
- Description: A clear description of the items (e.g., "Cotton T-shirt" not just "Clothes").
- Value: The transaction value (the amount paid or payable for the goods) in USD or CAD.
- Country of Origin: Where the goods were manufactured, not from where they ship
2. Other Government Agencies (PGA)
If you are shipping specific commodities, you need more than just customs clearance:
- FDA (Food and Drug Administration): Required for all food and snacks. You must file "Prior Notice" and get a PN Number before shipping.
- FCC: For electronics emitting radio frequencies.
- Fish and Wildlife: For goods made from animal products or mother of pearl.
Duty-Free Shipping: USMCA (CUSMA) and Section 321
Understanding the duty-free thresholds can save you (and your customers) significant money.
Section 321 (De Minimis) are not duty free
All shipments from Canada are subject to USA import duty. There are several duty types to consider:
-
Most Favoured Nation -MFN/ Column 1 duty rate: Applies based the HS classification of the goods
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"Trump Tariffs" beyond IEEPA: New methods of applying duty are being implemented by the US government. This includes section tariffs. These can include Section 122 (10% plus MFN), Section 232 (steel and aluminum) and others currently under consideration. They are changing often. For example, section 122 may be 15% when you are reading this post.
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Steel and Aluminium/ Section 200 and 300 tariffs: These tariffs apply to goods made from non-USA origin steel and aluminium.
USMCA / CUSMA Preference
If your goods are made in Canada or Mexico, they qualify for duty-free import under the USMCA agreement. You must provide a valid Certification of Origin.
Importer of Record to the USA
If the value of the goods to the USA exceeds $2,500 USD, there needs to be a clearly defined Importer of Record or IOR. The IOR usually submits a Power of Attorney (POA) giving their customs broker authorization to make entry on their behalf. This authorization is via Form 5106. Note that the receiver or consignee is not always the importer of record.
Say, for example, the client you sold the goods to asked you to send the goods directly to their customer. In this case, the consignee would not be the IOR.
Can a Canadian Company act as the Importer of Record to the USA?
Yes. Canadian companies can register as a Foreign Importer of Record by registering with US customs, assigning a broker (Form 5106), and getting a surety bond (of at least $50,000).
Ready to ship to the USA?
Expand your cross-border opportunity with Jet’s professionals. We help you choose the right mix of courier, trucking, and postal solutions.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and subject to change. Always confirm regulations with a customs broker or carrier prior to shipping.
