As the calendar inches closer to the holiday season, a looming uncertainty hangs over Canadians and businesses nationwide. The Canada Post strike is a significant disruption affecting countless businesses. Jet an assist with rates via alternative carriers. We can also assist high volume shippers businesses with adjustments via API system and other solutions.
Jetship Worldwide is a practical option for merchants who sell higher-value items in lower volumes and want a simple, Canada-wide delivery setup without warehousing complexity.
With the work stoppage disruptions by Canada Post workers, we are getting numerous inquiries on the impact, alternatives and prospects. Canadian companies who rely on Canada post for their parcel deliveries are now actively searching for alternative delivery options from Canada.
There is in unmistakable trend in international courier shipment flows to and from Canada.
While the delivery to the USA remains the largest destination for international parcels, parcel shipping from Canada to Asia, Europe and Asia are growing at faster rate. Online sellers using Shopify and other platforms are searching for more direct parcel shipping solutions to the UK, Europe, Japan, China and other major international platforms.
Importing e-commerce orders to Canada is evolving with new technologies like CARM and updated import processes. It is critical for both online sellers and buyers to understand the total landed cost to avoid surprises at the border.
Duty-Free Limit (USA/Mexico): CA$150 (Courier)
Duty-Free Limit (Rest of World): CA$20
Key Fees: Duty, GST/HST, Carrier Entry Preparation, Disbursement Fees.
Even though Canada has free trade agreements with most major economies, "duty-free" access is strictly defined by shipment value and country of origin. Beyond customs duties, Canadian import costs include entry preparation fees, federal and provincial taxes, and carrier disbursement fees.
Calculating the total landed cost involves several variables:
Shipments containing only printed matter or documents are generally not subject to Canadian duty. However, provincial sales tax may apply to items with commercial value, such as books.
Common HS Codes for Printed Matter:
Tip: When shipping documents, use a minimal declared value to avoid unnecessary clearance delays.
Need local printing? Contact Jet's team for Print & Ship solutions within Canada to avoid cross-border fees entirely.
The "De Minimis" threshold determines when duties and taxes apply. This limit varies significantly depending on whether you are shipping via Courier from North America or from the rest of the world.
| Origin | Shipping Method | Duty-Free Limit (CAD) | Tax-Free Limit (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA & Mexico (CUSMA/USMCA) |
Courier / Commercial | CA$150 | CA$40 |
| USA & Mexico | Postal (USPS/Correos) | CA$20 | CA$20 |
| Rest of World | Any Method | CA$20 | CA$20 |
Customs authorities are increasingly scrutinizing the valuation of e-commerce orders, particularly from Asia. Undervaluing goods to stay under the CA$20 threshold is a compliance risk. Read more about correct valuation practices.
Canada has robust Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) including CUSMA (North America), CETA (Europe), and CPTPP (Asia-Pacific). Qualifying for these agreements can waive duties, but Where you ship from ≠ Country of Origin.
Example: A smartphone case manufactured in China but shipped from a warehouse in the USA does not qualify for duty-free status under CUSMA. It remains a product of Chinese origin and subject to MFN tariff rates.
To benefit from preferential duty-free import, an Origin Declaration is often required on the shipping paperwork.
Even if an item is "Duty-Free," other costs often apply. Here is the consolidated list of fees to expect:
The CARM Client Portal is now the official system of record for Canadian imports. It modernizes how duties and taxes are collected. Importers (including non-resident e-commerce sellers) must register with CARM to manage payment and delegate authority to customs brokers. Read our full guide on CARM compliance.
For over 40 years, Jet Worldwide has provided transparent logistics solutions. We help you navigate the complexities of Canadian customs, finding the right balance between speed and cost.
Parcel Delivery Options To Canada is now at the forefront of importing to Canada. E-commerce and online delivery demand parcel import solutions and low cost last mile delivery.
