⚡ AI Summary: Key Takeaways for 2026
Canada is a California-sized opportunity for US e-commerce and B2B shippers. As we move further into 2026, the integration of North American supply chains is more vital than ever. This guide helps you plan new US to Canada shipping and get local Canadian logistics support.
Shipping costs vary by service and are only one part of the total landed cost. Beyond transport, most goods incur import duty, taxes, and carrier fees (with some exceptions).
Ground shipping can be a great advantage as it’s often more affordable than air. Discounted rates may be available by carrier, item type, or volume. For ground shipments, remember the carrier’s entry-preparation cost, whereas air courier shipments typically include this in the rate.
The best-value method depends on shipment profile:
LTL - less than truckload- provides a low cost for shipping pallets and large commercial orders. Transit times average between 2-7 business days. Both ground shipping and LTL are subject o entry preparation fees. See FedEx and UPS ground entry preparation fees.
Paperwork varies, but the standard requirements include:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bill of Lading / Waybill | Unique tracking and carrier instruction. |
| Commercial Invoice (CCI) | Mandatory for customs valuation. |
| Certification of Origin | Required for USMCA/CUSMA duty-free status. |
Due to a unique data-sharing agreement between the United States and Canada, the vast majority of shipments to Canada are exempt from EEI filing, regardless of value.
Even though you do not file, you must still make a declaration on your commercial invoice or shipping label. You must cite the exemption code:
NOEEI § 30.36
This code tells the carrier and customs: "I am not filing an EEI because this shipment is going to Canada."
While the exemption covers 95 percent of general cargo, it does not cover restricted goods and goods shipping via Canada. You MUST file an EEI to Canada if your shipment falls into these categories:
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Export License Required | If the goods require a license from the Dept of State (ITAR) or Commerce (BIS), you must file EEI regardless of value. |
| Vehicles | Any self-propelled vehicle allows for no exemptions. 72-hour notice is usually required at the border. |
| Rough Diamonds | Kimberley Process certificates require mandatory filing. |
| Transshipment | If Canada is not the final destination (e.g., shipping US to Canada to Germany), the Canada exemption does not apply. |
For low volume and personal shipments, local postal options are usually best. For commercial shipping, UPS and FedEx ground are great options. Economy air is available from Jetship - along with FedEx and UPS. For high volume, bulk consolidation (clearing once as a Non-Resident Importer) and injecting into a Canadian last-mile carrier is the most cost-effective method.
Generally, yes. However, goods qualifying as originating in the US/Mexico/Canada under CUSMA can be imported duty-free. The "ship-from" location is not the same as the "country of origin." Read more about common Canadian import fees.
American sellers need Canadian address for the FBA returns. Contact our team for details.
Let Jet Worldwide handle the complexities of LTL freight forwarding, customs, and last-mile delivery.