Expanding into international markets can create new opportunities for Canadian businesses, but international shipping from Canada involves more than choosing a carrier. Customs requirements, HS codes, duties and taxes, shipping documents, product restrictions, and destination-country rules can all affect the cost and success of a shipment.
Understanding these requirements in advance can help businesses reduce delays, avoid unexpected charges, and choose the right shipping strategy.
Canada also has trade agreements with major global markets that may provide preferential tariff treatment for qualifying products, depending on factors such as country of origin and product classification.
Quick Answer: What Do Canadian Businesses Need to Ship Internationally?
To ship internationally from Canada, businesses generally need to confirm product eligibility, identify the correct HS code and country of origin, prepare customs documents, choose the right shipping service, and understand any duties, taxes, or export requirements that may apply.
This guide covers the key steps Canadian businesses need to know to ship internationally with fewer delays, better cost control, and a smoother customer experience.
How International Shipping from Canada Works
Most international shipments from Canada follow a similar process, although the exact requirements can vary depending on the product, destination, shipment value, and shipping method.
Understanding the basic process before shipping can help businesses avoid customs delays, unexpected fees, and delivery problems.
International Shipping Process Step by Step
- Confirm product and destination requirements
- Identify the HS code and country of origin
- Prepare the required customs documents
- Choose the right international shipping service
- Package, label, and ship the goods
- Complete customs clearance
- Final delivery
Customs authorities use this information to determine duties, taxes, trade agreement eligibility, and import requirements.
This may include a commercial invoice, product description, declared value, country of origin, and other supporting documents.
Compare available options based on cost, transit time, tracking, shipment size, and destination.
Use proper packaging and make sure the shipping label and customs information are complete and accurate.
Customs authorities review the shipment and may assess duties, taxes, or request additional information before releasing it.
Once customs clearance is completed, the shipment is released for delivery to the customer.
Accurate information, complete documentation, and the right shipping service can make international shipping from Canada more predictable and help reduce delays, additional charges, and returned shipments.
Choosing International Markets and Using Canada’s Trade Agreements
Choosing the right international market is an important step before shipping internationally from Canada. Strong customer demand is important, but businesses should also consider shipping costs, customs requirements, duties, delivery times, and how easily the product can enter the market.
How to Choose the Right International Market
Before expanding into a new country or region, consider:
- Customer demand and competition
- International shipping costs and transit times
- Import restrictions and product regulations
- Duties, taxes, and customs fees
- Product certification or labelling requirements
- Currency and payment considerations
- Customer delivery expectations
- Cost and complexity of returns
- Available trade agreement benefits
A market with strong sales potential may still be difficult to serve if high shipping costs, tariffs, or regulatory requirements significantly reduce profit margins.
Canada’s Major Trade Agreements
Canada has trade agreements with many major international markets that can provide more predictable trading rules and, for qualifying goods, reduced or eliminated tariffs. Canada currently has active free trade agreements covering dozens of countries. (Global Affairs Canada)
Important agreements include:
- CUSMA – Canada, the United States, and Mexico
- CETA – Canada and the European Union
- CPTPP – Canada and participating markets including Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and Vietnam
- Canada–UK Trade Continuity Agreement – Canada and the United Kingdom
These agreements can make certain markets more attractive to Canadian businesses by improving market access and providing preferential tariff treatment for eligible products.
Country of Origin and Rules of Origin
A free trade agreement does not automatically make every shipment duty-free.
The product must meet the specific agreement’s rules of origin to qualify for preferential tariff treatment. A product manufactured outside Canada and simply stored or shipped from a Canadian warehouse does not automatically become Canadian-origin.
Before relying on a trade agreement, businesses should confirm:
- The product’s country of origin
- Its correct HS classification
- Whether an applicable trade agreement covers the destination
- Whether the product meets the agreement’s rules of origin
- What origin documentation is required
Considering trade agreements together with shipping costs, customs requirements, and customer demand can help Canadian businesses identify international markets with stronger long-term potential.
Choosing the Right International Shipping Service
The best option for international shipping from Canada depends on several factors, including shipment size and weight, destination, product value, delivery speed, tracking needs, and budget.
For businesses, the lowest shipping rate is not always the best choice. A slightly more expensive service may provide better tracking, faster delivery, fewer handling points, or a more reliable customer experience. The goal is to choose the service that offers the right balance of cost, speed, reliability, and shipment requirements.
Parcel, Express and Economy Shipping
For smaller shipments and eCommerce orders, common international shipping options include:
- Envelope: Best suited to documents and paperwork
- PAK: Useful for lightweight items that do not require a box
- Parcel: Common for boxed products and eCommerce orders
Express shipping is generally better for urgent, time-sensitive, or higher-value shipments where faster delivery is important.
Economy shipping may be more suitable when delivery time is flexible and keeping shipping costs lower is the main priority.
For eCommerce businesses, offering both express and economy options can also give customers more control over the balance between delivery speed and price.
Courier vs. Postal Services
Courier and postal services can both be used for international shipments, but they may differ in areas such as delivery speed, tracking, pickup options, customs processing, and customer support.
Courier services are often a better fit for businesses that need:
- Detailed tracking
- Faster delivery options
- Scheduled pickup
- Delivery confirmation
- Greater shipment visibility
Postal services may be suitable for lighter or less time-sensitive shipments where lower transportation costs are more important than speed.
Businesses should compare the needs of each shipment instead of using the same service for every international order.
Air, Ocean and Freight Shipping
When shipments become too large for standard parcel services, businesses may need to consider freight.
Air freight is generally faster and can be suitable for urgent, higher-value, or time-sensitive commercial goods.
Ocean freight is usually more cost-effective for large or heavy shipments where speed is less important.
For palletized or truckload freight:
- LTL is suitable for smaller palletized shipments sharing trailer space
- PTL may work for larger loads that do not require a full trailer
- FTL is used when an entire trailer is needed
Businesses should also consider the full door-to-door timeline, not just transportation time. Customs clearance, terminal handling, pickup, and final delivery can all affect the total transit time.
For businesses entering the UK market, Freightcom’s guide to shipping from Canada to the UK provides more route-specific information.
Choosing the Best Option
The right international shipping service should match the shipment’s size, urgency, destination, budget, and customer expectations.
A small eCommerce order may be best suited to an international parcel service, while larger commercial shipments may require air, ocean, or truck freight.
Choosing the right service from the start can help businesses control costs, improve delivery performance, and create a better experience for international customers.
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What International Shipping from Canada Really Costs
The cost of international shipping from Canada goes beyond the carrier rate shown when a shipment is booked. Businesses may also need to account for duties, taxes, customs brokerage, surcharges, insurance, and other destination-related fees.
Understanding the full cost before shipping helps businesses price products more accurately, protect margins, and avoid unexpected charges for customers.
What Makes Up the Total International Shipping Cost?
Several factors can affect the final cost of an international shipment, including:
- Transportation charges
- Package weight and dimensions
- Dimensional weight
- Fuel and carrier surcharges
- Duties and tariffs
- Import taxes
- Customs brokerage
- Disbursement or advancement fees
- Remote-area charges
- Shipping insurance
- Currency conversion
- Returns or failed-delivery costs
The quoted shipping rate is only one part of the overall cost, especially when goods are crossing customs.
Understanding Landed Cost
Landed cost is the total cost of getting a product from the seller in Canada to the customer in another country.
A simple way to think about it is:
Product cost + shipping + duties + taxes + brokerage + other fees = landed cost
For example, a shipping service may offer a low transportation rate, but if the shipment is subject to high duties, taxes, or customs fees, the total cost of serving that market may still be expensive.
Businesses should consider landed cost when setting international prices and deciding which markets are profitable to serve.
Duties, Tariffs and Import Taxes
These terms are related but not identical.
Customs duties may be charged when goods enter another country and can depend on the product’s HS code, value, country of origin, and destination.
Tariffs are duties applied to specific categories of imported goods.
Import taxes may include VAT, GST, sales tax, or similar charges imposed by the destination country.
A trade agreement may reduce or eliminate certain duties for qualifying products, but taxes and other customs-related fees may still apply.
Who Pays Duties and Taxes? DDP vs. DAP
Businesses should also decide who will be responsible for import charges.
With DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), the seller generally takes responsibility for applicable duties and taxes.
With DAP (Delivered at Place), the buyer is generally responsible for paying import duties and taxes when the shipment reaches the destination.
For eCommerce businesses, this decision can directly affect the customer experience. Unexpected charges at delivery may lead to customer complaints, refused shipments, or abandoned orders.
The Cheapest Rate Is Not Always the Lowest Cost
Choosing the lowest shipping rate does not always result in the lowest total cost.
A slightly higher-priced service may provide better tracking, faster transit, more reliable delivery, or fewer customs and delivery issues.
When comparing international shipping options, businesses should look at the complete picture: shipping rate, duties, taxes, service level, delivery performance, and potential return costs.
The best option is usually the one that provides the right balance between total landed cost and customer experience.
HS Codes, Country of Origin and International Shipping Documents
Accurate product information and customs documentation are essential when shipping internationally from Canada. Customs authorities use details such as the HS code, country of origin, product description, and declared value to determine duties, taxes, admissibility, and other import requirements.
Incorrect or incomplete information can lead to delays, additional charges, or requests for further documentation.
What Is an HS Code?
An HS code, or Harmonized System code, is used internationally to classify products for customs purposes. The first six digits are standardized globally, while individual countries may add additional digits for more detailed tariff classifications.
An accurate HS code can affect:
- Duties and tariffs
- Import restrictions
- Trade agreement eligibility
- Customs clearance
- Export reporting
Businesses that ship the same products regularly should consider storing the correct HS code for each SKU to reduce repeated manual work.
Country of Origin vs. Country of Shipping
The country of origin is not necessarily the country the shipment leaves from.
For example, a product manufactured outside Canada, imported into a Canadian warehouse, and later shipped overseas does not automatically become Canadian-origin.
Country of origin can affect duties, trade agreement eligibility, and customs requirements, so businesses should confirm both the correct HS classification and origin before shipping.
What Documents Are Needed for International Shipping from Canada?
Required documents vary by product, destination, shipment value, and regulations, but common international shipping documents may include:
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Air waybill or bill of lading
- Customs declaration
- Origin documentation
- Export declaration
- Permits, licences, or certificates, when required
Businesses shipping to specific markets may also need additional destination-specific documentation. For example, Freightcom’s guide to shipping from Canada to France provides more information for that route.
Commercial Invoice Requirements
For many commercial shipments, the commercial invoice is one of the most important customs documents.
It should generally include:
- Seller and buyer information
- Clear product description
- Quantity
- Declared value and currency
- HS code
- Country of origin
- Reason for export
- Applicable Incoterm, when relevant
The declared value should be accurate and consistent with the shipment.
Use Clear Product Descriptions
Avoid vague descriptions such as:
- “Parts”
- “Clothing”
- “Samples”
- “Electronics”
Instead, describe exactly what is being shipped.
For example:
“Parts” → “Aluminum automotive brake components”
“Clothing” → “Men’s cotton knitted T-shirts”
“Electronics” → “Wireless Bluetooth computer keyboards”
Clear descriptions, accurate HS codes, and complete customs information can help reduce unnecessary customs questions and delays.
For businesses shipping internationally from Canada on a regular basis, storing this information at the SKU level can make the shipping process faster and more consistent.
Canadian Export Requirements, CERS and Customs Clearance
When shipping internationally from Canada, businesses may need to meet Canadian export reporting requirements before the shipment leaves the country. They also need to provide accurate information so the shipment can clear customs at its destination.
The exact requirements depend on the goods, value, destination, and whether the shipment is restricted or regulated.
What Is CERS?
The Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS) is the CBSA’s electronic system for submitting export declarations.
In general, commercial goods valued at CAD $2,000 or more and exported to destinations other than the United States require an export declaration. Non-restricted goods exported for consumption in the U.S. generally do not require one, although restricted goods may still require permits, certificates, or other authorization. (Canada Border Services Agency)
Businesses that need to submit export declarations must have a valid Business Number and RM export program identifier before using CERS.
Export Permits and Other Requirements
Some products may require additional approval before they can be exported from Canada.
This can include:
- Export permits
- Licences
- Certificates
- Dangerous goods documentation
- Product-specific approvals
These requirements can apply regardless of shipment value, especially for controlled or regulated goods.
How International Customs Clearance Works
Once the shipment reaches the destination country, customs authorities review the information provided with the shipment.
They may verify:
- Product description
- HS code
- Declared value
- Country of origin
- Duties and taxes
- Import restrictions
- Required permits or certificates
If the information is complete and the shipment meets the destination’s requirements, customs can release it for final delivery.
What Causes Customs Delays?
Common causes include:
- Missing or incomplete documents
- Vague product descriptions
- Incorrect HS codes
- Incorrect declared values
- Missing permits
- Unclear country of origin
- Unpaid duties or taxes
- Additional inspections
The best way to reduce customs delays is to confirm requirements before shipping and make sure the information on the commercial invoice, shipping label, and customs documentation is accurate and consistent.
For Canadian businesses shipping internationally on a regular basis, having a repeatable export and customs process can help reduce errors and make cross-border fulfillment more predictable.
Restricted, Prohibited and Regulated Goods
Before shipping internationally from Canada, businesses need to confirm that the product can legally leave Canada, be accepted by the carrier, and enter the destination country.
Some products are completely prohibited, while others may be allowed only with permits, special packaging, licences, or additional documentation.
Products That May Require Extra Review
Common categories include:
- Food and beverages
- Cosmetics and supplements
- Medical products
- Batteries
- Electronics
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Plants, seeds, and animal products
- Chemicals
- Dangerous goods
- Weapons and controlled products
- High-value goods
- Certain cultural or protected items
The rules can vary significantly by destination. A product that is easy to ship to one country may be restricted or require additional documentation in another.
Check Three Levels Before Shipping
Canadian businesses should verify three things before accepting an international order:
- Canadian export requirements
- Carrier restrictions
- Destination-country import rules
Confirm whether the product is restricted, controlled, or requires an export permit.
Carriers may have their own rules for items such as batteries, dangerous goods, alcohol, or high-value shipments.
The receiving country may require permits, certifications, specific labelling, or may prohibit the product entirely.
Checking these requirements before creating the shipment can help avoid customs holds, refused deliveries, return-to-origin charges, and other unexpected costs.
Do Not Rely on Product Category Alone
Businesses should review the specific product, not just the general category.
For example, different rules may apply depending on a product’s:
- Ingredients
- Materials
- Battery type
- Intended use
- Value
- Quantity
- Country of origin
For products that are regulated or difficult to classify, businesses may need guidance from the appropriate government authority, customs professional, or carrier before shipping.
Check Before You Ship
Confirming product restrictions before the shipment leaves Canada is much easier and less expensive than dealing with a shipment that is stopped or refused at the destination.
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Packaging, Addressing, Delivery Times and Tracking
Successful international shipping from Canada depends on more than choosing a carrier. Proper packaging, accurate address details, realistic delivery expectations, and clear tracking communication all help reduce delays, damage, and failed deliveries.
Packaging Products for International Shipping
International shipments may pass through multiple facilities and handling points, so packaging should be strong enough for a longer journey.
Businesses should:
- Use the right box size to reduce unnecessary dimensional weight
- Protect fragile items with suitable cushioning
- Seal packages securely
- Protect moisture- or temperature-sensitive goods when required
- Remove old shipping labels and barcodes
- Make sure the shipping label is clear and securely attached
- Follow any special packaging rules for dangerous goods or regulated products
For palletized or wooden packaging, additional destination-country requirements may also apply.
International Addressing and Recipient Information
Address formats vary by country, so businesses should verify the destination address before shipping.
Important details may include:
- Full recipient name
- Street and unit number
- City and region
- Postal or ZIP code
- Country
- Recipient phone number
- Email address when required
Accurate contact information is especially important if the carrier or customs authority needs to reach the recipient.
Destination-specific requirements can vary. Businesses shipping into Europe can review Freightcom’s guide to shipping from Canada to Germany for more route-specific information.
Transit Time vs. Total Delivery Time
Carrier transit time and total delivery time are not always the same.
The final delivery timeline may also be affected by:
- Customs clearance
- Missing documentation
- Duties or taxes awaiting payment
- Weekends and local holidays
- Peak shipping periods
- Remote-area delivery
- Recipient response delays
Businesses should avoid promising delivery dates based only on the carrier’s estimated transit time.
Tracking and Customer Communication
Providing tracking information helps customers understand where their shipment is and what is happening during customs clearance.
For international orders, businesses should communicate clearly about:
- When the shipment has been picked up
- Estimated delivery time
- Customs processing
- Possible duties or taxes
- Delays or exceptions
- Final delivery status
Clear tracking and proactive communication can help reduce customer-service questions and create a more reliable international delivery experience.
Shipping Insurance, Claims and International Returns
When shipping internationally from Canada, businesses should also plan for what happens if a shipment is lost, damaged, refused, or returned. These situations can be expensive, especially when duties, taxes, customs fees, and international transportation costs are involved.
A clear process for shipment protection, claims, and returns can help reduce financial risk and improve the customer experience.
Carrier Liability vs. Shipping Insurance
Carrier liability and shipping insurance are not always the same.
A carrier may provide limited liability based on its terms and conditions, but that amount may be lower than the actual value of the goods.
Businesses shipping higher-value products should review:
- The carrier’s standard liability
- Any declared value requirements
- Available additional shipment protection
- Product exclusions
- Packaging requirements
- Claim filing deadlines
For valuable or fragile shipments, additional coverage may be worth considering.
Declared Value and High-Value Shipments
The declared value should accurately reflect the value of the goods being shipped.
It may be used for customs purposes, insurance, or carrier liability depending on the shipment and service.
Businesses should avoid understating the value of goods to reduce duties or taxes, as inaccurate values can lead to customs issues and may also affect a future claim.
What You Need for a Shipping Claim
If a shipment is lost or damaged, businesses may be asked to provide supporting documentation such as:
- Proof of product value
- Commercial invoice
- Shipping label and tracking information
- Photos of the packaging
- Photos of the damaged product
- Proof of delivery or non-delivery
- Other carrier-requested documentation
Keeping these records organized can make the claim process easier.
International Returns and Reverse Logistics
Returns can be more complicated internationally than domestically because the shipment may need to cross customs again.
Businesses should plan for:
- Return shipping costs
- Return-to-origin charges
- Duties and tax recovery where applicable
- Refused or abandoned shipments
- Local return addresses
- Replacement shipments
- Refund-without-return policies for lower-value products
For some products, the cost of returning an item internationally may be higher than the value of the product itself.
Build Return Costs Into Your International Strategy
Before entering a new market, businesses should estimate not only the cost of delivering the order but also the cost of handling returns.
A clear international return policy should explain:
- Who pays return shipping
- Whether duties or taxes are refundable
- How long customers have to return an item
- Whether the product must be returned before a refund is issued
- How refused deliveries are handled
Planning for claims and returns in advance helps businesses protect margins and create a more predictable international shipping process.
International Shipping for Canadian eCommerce Businesses
For eCommerce sellers, international shipping from Canada needs to work smoothly from checkout to final delivery. Customers want clear shipping costs, realistic delivery times, tracking, and no unexpected customs surprises.
The more international orders a business processes, the more important automation and accurate product data become.
International Shipping Rates at Checkout
Showing international shipping options at checkout can help customers compare delivery speed and cost before placing an order.
Businesses should make it clear whether:
- Duties and taxes are included
- Additional charges may be due at delivery
- Delivery estimates include or exclude customs processing
- Tracking is available
Clear expectations at checkout can reduce abandoned shipments, customer complaints, and unexpected delivery issues.
Manage Customs Information by SKU
Businesses shipping the same products repeatedly should store important customs information with each SKU, including:
- HS code
- Country of origin
- Product description
- Product value
- Weight and dimensions
Keeping this information organized makes it easier to prepare customs documents consistently and reduces manual data entry as international order volume grows.
Automate Orders, Labels and Customs Data
Connecting an eCommerce store with a shipping platform can help automate repetitive fulfillment tasks such as:
- Importing orders
- Comparing shipping services
- Creating shipping labels
- Preparing customs information
- Sending tracking details
- Managing shipments from one platform
Automation becomes especially valuable as a business begins shipping to multiple international markets.
Tracking, Duties and Customer Communication
International customers should know what to expect after an order ships.
Provide tracking information quickly and communicate clearly if customs delays, duties, taxes, or additional information may affect delivery.
Businesses should also avoid promising delivery dates based only on carrier transit estimates, since customs clearance can add time to the total delivery process.
Plan International Returns Before Expanding
International returns can be expensive, so return policies should be established before entering a new market.
Businesses should decide:
- Who pays return shipping
- How refused shipments are handled
- Whether low-value products need to be returned
- How duties and taxes are addressed
- When refunds or replacements are issued
A well-planned eCommerce shipping process helps Canadian businesses scale internationally while keeping fulfillment costs and customer expectations under control.
Simplify International eCommerce Shipping
Freightcom helps Canadian businesses compare shipping services, manage labels and tracking, and handle domestic and international shipments from one platform.
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How to Avoid Common International Shipping Mistakes and Reduce Costs
Many problems with international shipping from Canada come from avoidable errors such as incorrect customs information, poor packaging, or choosing a service based only on the lowest rate. Preventing these issues can help businesses reduce delays, control costs, and provide a better customer experience.
Common International Shipping Mistakes
Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Using vague product descriptions on customs documents
- Selecting the wrong HS code
- Declaring an incorrect product value
- Assuming a trade agreement automatically removes duties
- Ignoring destination-country restrictions
- Using oversized packaging that increases dimensional weight
- Choosing a shipping service based only on price
- Failing to explain duties and taxes to customers
- Providing incomplete recipient contact information
- Not having a clear international returns policy
Small documentation errors can become expensive when they lead to customs delays, additional fees, returned shipments, or dissatisfied customers.
How to Reduce International Shipping Costs
Businesses can often lower international shipping costs by improving the overall shipping process rather than simply searching for the cheapest carrier rate.
Practical ways to reduce costs include:
- Compare multiple shipping services: Rates and transit times can vary by carrier and destination.
- Optimize package size: Smaller packaging can help reduce dimensional-weight charges.
- Use economy services when appropriate: Not every shipment requires express delivery.
- Consolidate shipments when practical: Larger combined shipments may be more efficient than multiple smaller shipments.
- Use accurate customs information: Correct documentation can help prevent avoidable delays and correction fees.
- Review trade agreement eligibility: Qualifying products may benefit from preferential tariff treatment.
- Understand landed cost: Consider duties, taxes, brokerage, and other charges when comparing markets.
- Plan for returns: A market with inexpensive outbound shipping may still be costly if international returns are frequent.
The most cost-effective international shipping strategy considers the entire shipment journey, from packaging and transportation to customs clearance, final delivery, and possible returns.
For Canadian businesses shipping internationally on a regular basis, reviewing shipping data over time can also help identify which destinations, service levels, and packaging methods provide the best balance between cost, delivery performance, and customer satisfaction.
International Shipping Checklist for Canadian Businesses
A consistent process can make international shipping from Canada easier to manage and help reduce avoidable errors.
Before sending an international shipment, businesses should work through the following checklist:
- Confirm the destination and recipient address
- Check product admissibility
- Identify the correct HS code
- Confirm the country of origin
- Review trade agreement eligibility
- Estimate the total landed cost
- Decide who will pay duties and taxes
- Compare available shipping services
- Prepare accurate customs documents
- Package and label the shipment correctly
- Consider shipment protection
- Send tracking information to the customer
- Monitor customs clearance and delivery
- Keep required shipping and export records
- Plan for returns or claims
Confirm the goods can be exported from Canada, accepted by the carrier, and imported into the destination country.
Use the proper product classification for customs, duties, and reporting.
Do not assume a product is Canadian-origin simply because it is shipping from Canada.
Check whether the goods may qualify for preferential tariff treatment and what origin requirements apply.
Consider shipping, duties, taxes, brokerage, and other possible fees.
Determine whether the shipment will use a DDP or DAP approach and communicate this clearly to the customer.
Review cost, transit time, tracking, and service level before choosing a carrier option.
Complete the commercial invoice and any other required export or import documentation.
Protect the goods and avoid unnecessary dimensional-weight charges.
Review carrier liability and additional coverage for higher-value or fragile goods.
Provide realistic delivery expectations and explain that customs processing can affect timing.
Respond quickly if the carrier or customs authority requests additional information.
Maintain organized documentation for future reference and compliance purposes.
Know how refused deliveries, damaged shipments, and international returns will be handled.
Using the same checklist for every international order can help Canadian businesses create a more reliable shipping process as they expand into additional markets.
How Freightcom Helps Canadian Businesses Ship Internationally
Managing international shipping from Canada becomes more complex as shipment volume, destinations, and service requirements grow. Using one shipping platform can help businesses compare available options, prepare shipments, and keep domestic and international shipping activity organized in one place.
Freightcom gives Canadian businesses access to multiple international carrier services for Parcel, PAK, and Envelope shipments, along with shipping tools for customs documentation, label creation, tracking, and consolidated invoicing.
Compare International Shipping Options
Instead of relying on one carrier for every destination, businesses can compare available shipping services based on factors such as:
- Destination
- Package size and weight
- Delivery speed
- Shipping cost
- Service level
This makes it easier to choose an option that fits the requirements of each shipment rather than using the same service for every international order.
Manage International Shipments in One Platform
Freightcom can also help simplify day-to-day shipping tasks by allowing businesses to manage international and domestic shipments through one platform.
Depending on the selected service, businesses can access features such as:
- International shipping labels
- Customs documentation
- Shipment tracking
- Multiple carrier options
- Consolidated invoicing
- Shipping support
For businesses expanding into new markets, having these tools in one place can reduce manual work and make it easier to manage growing international shipping volumes.
Businesses can learn more about Freightcom’s international shipping services and available options for shipping from Canada to destinations around the world.
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International Shipping from Canada FAQs
1. How do I ship internationally from Canada?
To ship internationally from Canada, confirm that the product can be exported and imported, identify the correct HS code and country of origin, prepare the required customs documents, choose a shipping service, and determine how duties and taxes will be handled.
2. What is the cheapest way to ship internationally from Canada?
The cheapest option depends on the destination, package size, weight, and delivery speed. Economy services are often less expensive than express shipping, but businesses should compare the total landed cost, tracking, transit time, and reliability rather than choosing based only on the lowest rate.
3. How much does international shipping from Canada cost?
International shipping costs depend on the destination, package weight and dimensions, service level, carrier, fuel surcharges, duties, taxes, brokerage, and other fees. Comparing multiple shipping services can help businesses find the best balance between price and delivery performance.
4. How long does international shipping from Canada take?
Delivery times vary by destination and shipping service. Express services are generally faster than economy or freight options, but customs clearance, local holidays, inspections, remote-area delivery, and missing documentation can increase the total delivery time.
5. What documents are required for international shipping from Canada?
Common documents include a commercial invoice, packing list, shipping label, air waybill or bill of lading, customs declaration, and origin documentation. Some shipments may also require an export declaration, permit, licence, or product-specific certificate.
6. Do I need a commercial invoice for international shipping?
Most commercial shipments containing goods require customs information, and a commercial invoice is commonly one of the main documents used for clearance. It should clearly identify the seller, buyer, goods, quantity, value, currency, HS code, and country of origin.
7. What is an HS code?
An HS code is an internationally standardized product classification used by customs authorities to identify goods and determine applicable tariffs and requirements. The first six digits are harmonized internationally, while individual countries may add additional digits to their tariff classifications. (Global Affairs Canada)
8. How do I find the correct HS code for my product?
Start by identifying exactly what the product is made of, how it is used, and how it should be classified under the Harmonized System. Canadian exporters can use official classification resources, and more complex products may require assistance from a customs or trade specialist.
9. What does country of origin mean for international shipping?
Country of origin generally refers to where a product originates under applicable origin rules, not simply where it is shipped from. A product manufactured abroad and later shipped from a Canadian warehouse does not automatically become Canadian-origin.
10. When is CERS required for exports from Canada?
In general, non-restricted commercial goods valued at CAD $2,000 or more and exported to destinations other than the United States require an export declaration. Goods exported for consumption in the U.S. and non-restricted commercial goods below CAD $2,000 are among the common exceptions. (Canada Border Services Agency)
11. Do I need a customs broker to ship internationally from Canada?
Not every international shipment requires a customs broker. However, a broker or trade specialist can be helpful for complex classifications, regulated products, high-value commercial shipments, unusual customs requirements, or businesses entering unfamiliar markets.
12. Who pays duties and taxes on international shipments?
The seller or buyer may be responsible depending on the agreed shipping terms. Businesses should clearly communicate responsibility before the order is placed so customers are not surprised by duties, taxes, or customs charges at delivery.
13. What is the difference between DDP and DAP?
With DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), the seller generally takes responsibility for applicable import duties and taxes. With DAP (Delivered at Place), the seller arranges delivery to the destination, while the buyer is generally responsible for import duties and taxes.
14. How are customs duties and taxes calculated?
Customs charges can depend on the product’s HS classification, declared value, country of origin, destination-country tariff rules, and applicable trade agreements. Import taxes such as VAT or sales taxes may also apply separately from customs duties.
15. Can Canada’s free trade agreements reduce customs duties?
Yes, qualifying goods may receive reduced or eliminated tariffs under applicable Canadian free trade agreements. However, a product must satisfy the specific agreement’s rules of origin and any documentation requirements; simply shipping the product from Canada does not automatically qualify it for preferential treatment.
16. What items cannot be shipped internationally from Canada?
Some goods are prohibited, while others may require permits, special handling, or additional documentation. Common regulated categories include dangerous goods, certain batteries, chemicals, food products, medical products, alcohol, tobacco, plants, animal products, and controlled goods.
17. How can I avoid customs delays when shipping internationally?
Use accurate HS codes, declared values, countries of origin, and detailed product descriptions, and make sure all required documentation is complete. Vague descriptions or missing information can delay customs processing or result in a shipment being refused or returned.
18. Can small businesses and eCommerce sellers ship internationally from Canada?
Yes. Canadian small businesses and eCommerce sellers can ship internationally using parcel, courier, postal, and freight services depending on the size and destination of the shipment. As volume grows, storing customs information by SKU and automating labels, documentation, and tracking can simplify fulfillment.
19. What is the best international shipping service from Canada?
There is no single best service for every shipment. The right option depends on the destination, package size, urgency, value, budget, tracking requirements, and whether the shipment is a parcel, document, pallet, or larger freight load.
20. Do I need shipping insurance for international shipments?
Shipping insurance is not required for every shipment, but businesses should review the carrier’s standard liability before sending valuable or fragile goods. Additional shipment protection may be worth considering when the potential financial loss is higher than the carrier’s included coverage.
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