Shipping orders to the US? Figuring out how much is postage from Canada to US can be confusing. With so many carriers, service levels, and delivery speeds, the choices can feel overwhelming.
Postage rates Canada to US depend on your package’s size, weight, delivery speed, and chosen carrier. As a small business, understanding postage Canada to USA options helps you plan better and avoid surprise costs.
Start with these commonly asked questions about Canada Post shipping to build a solid foundation. Then, use this guide to understand postage from Canada to US, what affects it, and how to pick the best option for your budget.
Overview of Mailing Options from Canada to the USA
Your shipping options to the US depend on your item, delivery speed, and budget. Canada Post, the most-used carrier, sorts shipments into three types based on size and weight:
1. Standard Letters: The most affordable option for lightweight documents (up to 30g), with delivery times typically ranging from 4 to 6 business days.
2. Oversized Mail: For documents or small items that exceed standard letter dimensions but weigh under 500g.
3. Parcels: Canada Post offers multiple parcel shipping options, including:
- Expedited Parcel (affordable, tracking included, delivery in 4-7 days)
- Xpresspost-USA (faster, 2-3 business days with tracking)
- Priority Worldwide (fastest, next-day delivery to most US cities)
Private carriers like UPS, FedEx, and DHL offer express and economy shipping with advanced tracking and reliable service. Though they cost more, they’re ideal for urgent or valuable shipments.
Understanding postage rates Canada to US can help you decide whether a standard letter, oversized mail, or parcel service is the most cost-effective for your needs.
3. Standard Letter Mail Rates
Standard Letter Mail to the USA – Quick Guide
| Category | Details |
| Size & Weight Guidelines | – Min Dimensions: 140 mm x 90 mm (5.6 in x 3.6 in)- Max Dimensions: 245 mm x 156 mm (9.6 in x 6.1 in)- Max Thickness: 5 mm (0.2 in)- Max Weight: 50 grams (1.76 oz) |
| Postcard Limit | – Max Dimensions: 235 mm x 120 mm (9.2 in x 4.7 in) |
| Postcard Rates | – Up to 30g: $1.75- Over 30g up to 50g: $2.61 |
| Cost Tip | If you’re asking how much to mail a letter from Canada to US, it starts at $1.75 for letters up to 30g. |
| Where to Buy Postage | – Online: Canada Post’s online store- In-Person: Over 6,200 Canada Post locations, plus select convenience stores, pharmacies, and grocery stores- Authorized Retailers: Includes some 7-Eleven and local shops (availability may vary) |
| Shipping Tools | – Use Canada Post’s “Ship Online” tool to prepare, pay for, and print your shipping label at home. Then, drop off your letter at any post office or letter box. |
When sending a standard letter from Canada to the US, follow Canada Post’s size and weight rules to avoid delays or extra charges. Your letter must be between 140 mm x 90 mm and 245 mm x 156 mm, no thicker than 5 mm, and weigh no more than 50 grams. For postcards or greeting cards, stay within 235 mm x 120 mm.
If you’re wondering how much to send a letter from Canada to US, it depends on the weight. Letters up to 30 grams cost $1.75, while those over 30 grams and up to 50 grams cost $2.61. So if you’re asking how much to mail a letter from Canada to US, these are the rates to remember.
Buy stamps online at Canada Post or at any of their 6,200+ locations. Many convenience stores, grocery stores, pharmacies, and some 7-Eleven shops also carry them, though availability may vary.
If you prefer doing it from home, use Canada Post’s “Ship Online” tool. It lets you create and print your shipping label. After that, you can drop your letter in a mailbox or bring it to the post office.
4. Non-Standard and Oversized Mail Rates
What if your mail doesn’t fit the standard size or weight limits? Let’s look at how the postal service handles non-standard and oversized mail.
| Category | Measurements |
| Minimum Dimensions | 140 mm x 90 mm (5.5 in x 3.6 in) |
| Maximum Dimensions | 380 mm x 270 mm x 20 mm (14.9 in x 10.6 in x 0.8 in) |
| Weight Range | 0 g to 500 g |
| Maximum Thickness | 20 mm (0.8 in) |
Note: Items exceeding these dimensions or weight limits are ineligible for Lettermail and must be sent using parcel services.
Postage Rates Based on Weight Categories:
As of January 13, 2025, the postage rates for non-standard and oversized mail to the USA are as follows:
| Weight Range | Estimated Sheet Count | Rate (CAD) |
| Up to 100 g | Up to 20 sheets | $4.29 |
| Over 100 g, up to 200 g | Up to 40 sheets | $7.49 |
| Over 200 g, up to 500 g | Up to 100 sheets | $14.99 |
Canada to US postage for heavier or larger mail depends on weight categories, helping you pay the correct rate. These rates apply to items outside standard letter limits but within non-standard and oversized mail guidelines.
Purchasing Postage:
- Online: Buy stamps or print shipping labels for non-standard and oversized mail directly from Canada Post’s website.
- In-Person: Visit any Canada Post location with your mail item so staff can check its size and weight and provide accurate postage.
Factors Influencing Postage Costs
Paying the right postage is only part of the equation. The key factors that influence how much Canada to USA postage shipping really costs are:
1. Weight and Dimensions
The bigger or heavier your item, the more you pay. Canada Post and other carriers sort mail into standard letters, oversized mail, and parcels. Prices go up as size and weight increase. For example, a 30g letter costs $1.75, but a 500g oversized envelope costs $7.36. If a parcel is large and heavy, you might pay extra based on both its weight and size or dimensional pricing.
2. Delivery Speed
The urgency of delivery affects postage costs. Canada Post offers:
- Expedited Parcel (affordable, 4-7 business days)
- Xpresspost-USA (faster, 2-3 business days)
- Priority Worldwide (next-day delivery, most expensive)
Private carriers like FedEx, UPS, and DHL also offer fast shipping but often charge more than Canada Post. If you’re considering private couriers, this guide on how to calculate FedEx and UPS shipping costs can help you make better decisions.
3. Additional Services
Optional services can increase postage costs but offer benefits such as:
- Tracking and Signature: Shows delivery progress and proof of delivery
- Insurance: Covers high-value items
- Registered Mail: Adds extra security for important documents
Now that you know what affects the price, let’s break down how to calculate postage to USA from Canada accurately–step by step.
How to Calculate Postage Costs
To save money and avoid delays, know the right postage from Canada to US based on your mail’s size and delivery speed. Use these simple methods to calculate it:
1. Using Online Tools
Canada Post’s “Find a Rate” Tool:
Go to the Tool: Visit the “Find a Rate” page on Canada Post’s website.
- Enter Your Details:
- From: Type in your Canadian postal code.
- To: Choose “United States” and enter the ZIP code.
- Item Type: Pick what you’re sending: Document, Parcel, or Card.
- Size & Weight: Enter the weight (grams) and size (centimeters) for an accurate cost.
- See Your Options: The tool shows available shipping services, delivery times, and prices.
- Add Extras (if needed): Choose tracking, signature on delivery, or insurance.
- Pick a Service: Compare options and choose what fits your budget and needs. For quick estimates without manual input, try ShippingChimp’s shipping costs calculator to get instant cost breakdowns across multiple carriers.
2. Canada Post Mobile App
- Get the App: Download it on iOS or Android.
- Use “Find a Rate”: Just like the website, enter your item’s details to check postage costs easily.
3. Using Rate Charts:
If you prefer manual calculations or need a quick reference, Canada Post offers rate charts to help you estimate postage costs:
Access Rate Charts:
- Online: Visit the Stamp Prices page to view current rates for various mail categories.
- PDF Guides: Download the Consumer Prices document for detailed rate information.
Interpret the Charts:
- Identify Mail Category: Determine if your item is a standard letter, non-standard/oversized mail, or a parcel.
- Match Weight and Dimensions: Locate the appropriate weight category and corresponding postage rate.
- Consider Additional Services: If you require extras like tracking or insurance, consult the chart for additional fees.
Tips for Reducing Postage Costs
Businesses can reduce shipping costs on postage to USA from Canada by making smart choices when sending packages. Focus on the following strategies to optimize shipping expenses:
1. Optimize Package Size and Weight
- Use the Right Packaging: Choose a box or envelope that fits snugly. Smaller packaging helps avoid extra charges as carriers base costs on size and weight.
- Measure Accurately: Weigh and measure your package after packing. Incorrect details can cause fees or delays, so always double-check before shipping.
- Try Packaging Tools: Use packaging apps or software to choose the right box and minimize wasted space to help lower shipping costs.
2. Choose the Right Mailing Service
- Compare Your Options: Look at different shipping services and choose based on how fast you need the item to arrive and how much you’re willing to pay. Use “Regular Parcel” for non-urgent deliveries or “Xpresspost” if you need faster shipping.
- Use Flat-Rate Shipping: Flat-rate options charge you one price based on the box size or destination, not the weight. It’s a good way to save money when shipping heavier items.
- Negotiate Business Rates: If you ship often, talk to your carrier about discounts. Businesses that send packages regularly can often get lower rates.
FAQ
1. Are there any customs forms required for mailing packages to the USA?
When you ship a package from Canada to the US, include a customs form. Use the CN22 form for items under $500 CAD and the CN23 form for items over $500 CAD. Fill out the forms online at Canada Post’s website or in person at the post office. You don’t need a customs form for regular letters or documents– unless they contain gifts, products, samples, or items for sale.
2. What are the weight limits for standard and non-standard mail to the USA?
The cost to mail letter to USA from Canada depends on the letter’s weight and size. Standard rates start at $1.75. If you’re wondering how much to send a letter from Canada to US,
Canada Post sets weight limits to keep prices accurate. Standard letters can weigh up to 50 grams, oversized mail up to 500 grams, and parcels up to 30 kilograms. These limits help sort your mail correctly and make sure you don’t overpay.
3. How can I track my mail sent from Canada to the USA?
You can track your package if you use Tracked Packet-USA, Expedited Parcel, Xpresspost-USA, or Priority Worldwide. Standard letter mail and oversized mail don’t include tracking. Use Canada Post’s Track a Package tool with your tracking number. If you ship through ShippingChimp, you can also track it there in real time.
4. Are there any restrictions on items I can mail to the USA?
Yes, the US has strict rules on what you can ship. You can’t mail things like perishable food, firearms, ammo, explosives, certain medicines, or lithium batteries that aren’t packed properly. Before you send a package, check Canada Post’s list of banned and restricted items to avoid any problems.
5. How long does it take for mail to reach the USA from Canada?
Your chosen shipping service determines delivery time. Standard letter mail arrives in 4-6 business days, and Expedited Parcel takes 4-7 days. For faster delivery, use Xpresspost-USA (2-3 business days) or Priority Worldwide, which reaches most US cities by the next day.
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