Information for Importing to Canada

This page contains specific information for Canadian residents importing items from the USA to Canada. There are some unique aspects to shipping to Canada that all members are urged to understand prior to shipping items to Canada.

Choice of Shipping Provider: UPS vs. US Postal Service

Members shipping to Canada have a choice between UPS and US Postal Service. Ship2Me used to ship solely through UPS, but based on significant member requests we have added service through the US Postal Service as well.

By sending through UPS, packages normally are delivered in 2-5 business days, UPS serves as the customs broker and items are delivered directly to your door. All fees for customs clearance are included, however the landed costs (duties, taxes, etc) are not included. Package tracking is in real time, and insurance is available at $1 per $100 of value.

Sending by US Postal Service is through their Priority Mail International service, which normally takes 4-10 days. US Postal Service does not provide any customs brokerage, and package tracking is limited. Insurance is available at $1 per $100 of value.

The feedback we have received is that the private international couriers (UPS and Fedex) often charge significant fees for fronting the duties/taxes which can be surprising. Sometimes this can be overcome by contacting UPS prior to shipping and getting a full understanding of the process and what charges may be incurred. As for the US Postal Service members feedback is that this service can be quite simple, straightforward and without additional charges depending on the value of the items shipped.

Again, we urge all of customers to research the issues of duties/taxes and corresponding fees thoroughly. Ship2Me has no responsibility for these charges, nor do we have any visibility over the process or its outcome.

Special Fees for Sending UPS

The following fees are often charged by UPS directly to the receiver when shipping to Canada. We encourage all members to carefully research these fees prior to sending through UPS:

Entry Preparation Fees: Entry preparation fees will be charged for imports arrive via UPS Standard where UPS is designated by the customer as the customs broker. Please contact UPS directly to obtain their fee list prior to selecting them as your customs broker.

Bond Fees: Customers are responsible for payment of duties and taxes. When funds are not provided in advance by the customer and UPS pays the duties and taxes on the importer's behalf, a fee of 2.7% (min $5.85) of the amount advanced by UPS will be charged in addition to the Entry Preparation Fees.

COD Fees: a fee of $4.25 may be charge for collecting brokerage charges.

Additional charges may apply for special customs requirements and shipments requiring Goernmental Department clearance. Rates may be subject to 5% GST taxes.