How to Prepare Your Package for Shipping to Canada

When shipping packages from the US to Canada, one must understand the intricacies of the international shipping process. Whether for personal or commercial purposes, you need a reliable partner to help you with various aspects of cross-border delivery from documentation to customs clearance and shipping regulations.

This blog post provides basic tips on preparing your package for shipping to Canada from the USA.

Step-by-Step Process for Shipping from the USA to Canada

Pick a Reliable Shipping Carrier

You shall choose a carrier that satisfies your requirements based on shipping costs, tracking features, and customer services.‍ A few of the top shipping carriers to Canada from the USA include WeShipWorldwide, UPS, FedEx, and DHL, they all have trustworthy international shipping services.

However, comparing their offers might help you ensure you receive the best value and service before choosing a carrier. Take into account the size of your item, its weight, and its value when examining carriers.

For instance, if you want to send a delivery from the US to Canada, you can either choose USPS Priority Mail Express or FedEx International. You should choose the former if you prefer standard shipping rates, or you can go for the latter if you prefer economy rates.

Understand and Properly Fill Out Customs Forms

You shall properly complete a customs form for every parcel delivery to Canada. This form carries all the details and information about items in the package and their value. Based on these details, the customs duties and taxes are calculated.

The form usually asks for these details: 

• Contact information for both the sender and the recipient
• A clear description of each item in the package
• The value of each item
• The country where each item was made
• The Harmonized System (HS) code for each item: Traded products are categorized using this standardized numerical system called the HS code. Customs officials use these codes all over the world to recognize products and apply the appropriate taxes, levies, and tariffs.

Make sure you fill in all the details correctly, failing to do so might result in long delays, extra charges, or sometimes seizure of the package by CBSA, the Canada Border Services Agency.

Calculate Import Taxes and Duties

You must know the basics of import taxes and duties often charged for shipping packages internationally. Duties can be understood as a percentage of the item’s value and taxes as a percentage of the item’s value in addition to the duty. The total charges are often determined based on factors such as the package’s price, its HS code, and the country from where it was delivered.

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You may occasionally use a service called Delivery Duty Paid (DDP), where you can pay the duties and taxes in advance. As a result, your Canadian clients may avoid unforeseen expenses and the delivery procedure will go more smoothly. You should, however, account for this in your pricing plan as it may also result in higher transportation expenses.

Package Items Properly

To avoid unwanted damages, international shipping requires proper packaging as these packages are more often than not likely to undergo rough treatment during transit. A well-packaged item ensures your items are well-protected.

Make sure to double-box fragile products and use sturdy boxes with plenty of cushioning material. Additionally, confirm that the packaging satisfies any applicable laws or limitations. Certain materials, such as untreated wood, are forbidden because of possible pest problems.

Understand Canadian Shipping Rules and Restrictions

Like every country, Canada has rules and regulations that allow and prohibit items from being shipped in the country. Moreover, a few items might require additional paperwork or permits. For instance, electronics and certain types of equipment may require certification and might not be allowed if they fail to comply with Canadian safety standards.

Therefore, it is essential to understand these regulations. This not only ensures your products comply but also prevents your shipment from being held or rejected at the border. In turn, this prevents delays in package deliveries.

‍‍Tracking Your Package from the USA to Canada

You usually receive a tracking number from the carrier to keep an eye on your package’s location and delivery status from the US to Canada. Real-time tracking helps manage time-sensitive shipments and transit issues. After clearing customs in Canada, the final delivery relies on the carrier’s logistics network. The package smoothly reaches its destination in most cases unless there is inaccuracy in recipient information, causing delays.

What to Do If Your Package Is Delayed or Lost

The first basic thing to do is track your package if you have the tracking number, it will provide you with the most recent status of your item. However, if you don’t have the tracking number, you can request the shipper to give you the tracking number or track the package and update you with the latest information whether it is delayed or lost somewhere. More often than not you will hear the word “Delay.”

Cheapest Way to Ship from Canada to the USA

For shipping packages to Canada from the USA, you should begin by using the WeShipWorldwide calculator to estimate costs. Your next step should be exploring couriers’ operations, delivery times, and extra services like tracking or weekend deliveries. 

If you are looking for one of the cheapest or easy-to-afford options, Flat Export is the one. However, UPS Standard offers better value for faster delivery. Ideally, you should consider services that provide the most cost-effective solution for your shipping needs.

How to Get a US Address to Ship to Canada

Now, how do you get a US address to ship to Canada? You can get a US address for shipping packages in Canada with the help of a company that offers package forwarding services, allowing you to shop online from any US store and have the item delivered to your doorsteps. It does not matter whether the merchant ships to your location or not, you still have access to US-only sales offers and discounts, lower shipping rates, and all the other perks. Some of the best package forward service providers you can choose from include WeShip Worldwide, Planet Express, and My US.

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