How to Export Ship Goods from Canada: The Complete 2026 Guide
Everything businesses need to plan compliant, cost-efficient exports from Canada — covering CERS declarations, HS classification, valuation, air versus ocean freight, plus minimum documentation.
Key Takeaways
- For new exporters, make sure you get an exporter id (attached to your BN)
- A CERS declaration is required for most non-restricted exports valued over $2,000 CAD (shipments to the USA are generally exempt unless restricted).
- Accurate HS codes, item descriptions, plus country of origin are essential for smooth customs clearance.
- Air freight is typically more cost-effective for shipments under around 200 kg; ocean freight suits heavier bulk cargo.
- Canada has FTAs with over 30 countries — qualifying goods may enter duty-free, reducing your buyer's landed cost.
- Every shipment needs a commercial invoice plus a Bill of Lading or waybill at minimum.
How to Export Goods from Canada (Video Guide)
Watch our walkthrough covering the end-to-end export process — from documentation to choosing a carrier.
Key Elements for Shipping International Orders
Shipping internationally requires strict attention to shipping costs, import duties, plus proper documentation. The critical elements include:
Detailed addresses — Shipper plus receiver contact information must be complete. The receivers tax ID is often necessary.
Accurate dimensions — Often more impactful vs domestic shipments due to air volume weight considerations.
Commercial invoice — Clearly outline the goods being shipped plus their transaction value.
Canadian Export Regulations plus CERS
Exporting from Canada requires declaring your items using the Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS). An export declaration is usually not necessary for shipments to the USA.
Compliance Tip: For most non-restricted shipments, a CERS declaration is required if the shipment is valued over $2,000 CAD.
Harmonized System (HS) Codes
The product description forms the basis for assigning the tariff classification, known as the HS Code. This system is maintained by the World Customs Organization.
Shipping Options from Canada
Select the mode that fits your timeline, cargo type, and shipping volume:
-
Canada post is best for personal shipments and occasional e-commerce
- Global couriers are best suited for commercial shipments and heavier packages (contact our team for our lowest market rate for shipments over 10 kilograms.
- Air Freight via global couriers and 3PL's works great for palletized freight
- Ocean shipping is best when shipping several pallets and bulk freight
| Mode | Best Use Case | Typical Transit |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Post | Personal shipments plus small packets | 6 to 25 business days |
| Express Courier | Commercial shipments and larger packages | 1 to 5 business days |
| Sea Freight | Bulk international shipments | 30 to 60 days |
Air versus Ocean Shipping from Canada
Shipments under approximately 200 kg are usually more cost-effective by air. While ocean freight offers a much lower cost per kilogram, it involves minimum surcharges that make it expensive for small loads.
Rule of Thumb: If your shipment weighs less than around 200 kg, air freight is usually the better value (and much faster transit)
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to export goods from Canada?
At a minimum, international shipments requires a waybill plus a commercial invoice. Common additional paperwork may include a CERS export declaration and a certificate of origin (for duty free import via a Canadian Free Trade Agreement).
What is the difference between air freight plus ocean freight?
Air freight is faster plus generally more cost-effective for shipments under 200 kg. Ocean freight is better suited for heavier shipments due to the much lower costs per kilogram and being able to spread out the many surcharges over more weight.
