The Canadian market is a booming market for eCommerce. In the year 2022, eCommerce sales in Canada reached over $79.80 billion in 2022. Clearly, Canada is a great place for any eCommerce business. However, just across the border is the USA and Canadian eCommerce founders are branching out more than ever to benefit from the wonders of cross-border logistics. Canada exchanges over $500 billion in goods with the US each year.
In this blog, we will go over the cost of shipping from Canada to the USA for eCommerce businesses, shipping restrictions, carriers that are popular for shipping from Canada to the USA and ultimately conclude the best shipping method to ship your eCommerce orders from Canada to USA.
The cost of shipping from Canada to the USA
The cost of shipping anything from anywhere is dependent on a host of factors – Destination, Speed, Package Weight, Shipping Provider and customs clearance. The cheapest rates start at $5.35 from ShippingChimp.
Destination
If you are shipping to remote places in the US, the cost is on the higher side than when shipping to places easily accessible.
Speed
Shipping speed determines whether your orders will go by road, air or sea. Most carriers offer four methods of shipping, which include –
1. Ground – This option has the longest delivery time and the cheapest rate.
2. Expedited – Slightly faster than ground, this option is also slightly heavy on the pocket.
3. Overnight – As fast as the name sounds, if you want your packages delivered overnight, this is the method to go for.
4. Priority mail – This method is also a quick way of sending packages. Some carriers interchange it with expedited shipping.
Package weight
The package weight also plays a significant role in deciding the cost.
Shipping provider
A national carrier may charge you way more than a regional carrier. Therefore, it is recommended that once you finalize the other details, you find a carrier specific to your needs. Know the shipping deadlines of popular carriers here.
Custom Clearance
The total shipping costs will include custom taxes and duties.
Shipping Restrictions
Not everything can be shipped from Canada to USA. There are several restrictions that you have to be mindful of before sending off your package. These are some of the prohibited or restricted items when shipping from Canada to the USA:
- Firearms and weapons
- Explosives, fireworks, and ammunition
- Cannabis
- Food, plants, and animals
Most major carriers ship from Canada to USA. However, we have a comprehensive list that highlights the top carriers that have the most affordable rates coupled with a great delivery experience.
Popular Carriers – 5 lbs package from Canada to New York
Canada Post
| Canada Post – Expedited Parcel USA | 4-6 business days | $27.12 |
| Canada Post – Xpresspost – USA | 3-4 business days | $40.33 |
FedEx
| FedEx International Priority Express | 1 Business Day | CA$229.50 |
| FedEx International Economy | 2-3 business days | CA$157.28 |
| FedEx International Ground | 6-7 business days | CA$40.31 |
UPS
| UPS 3 Day Select | 5 Business Days | $134 |
| UPS Worldwide Express | 5 Business Days | $80 |
| UPS Worldwide Saver | 5 Business Days | $78 |
| UPS Worldwide Expedited | 5 Business Days | $70 |
| UPS Standard | 5 Business Days | $39 |
What is the best shipping method?
Under 2 Kgs
Canada Post Tracked Packet is a slightly more expedited shipping service than Canada Post Small Packet Air. It generally reaches its final destination in 4-7 business days.
Heavier packages
Canada Post Expedited Parcel, FedEx Ground, FedEx Express
For Apparel – Clothes are usually heavier and Canada Post is an affordable option. Consider going for Canada Post Expedited Parcel. Check the shipping strategy of Canadian apparel companies here.
For Electronics – For Electronics, go for a shipping company that understands delicate and fragile shipments the best, and that is FedEx.
For Holiday Decorations – ShippingChimp is the best carrier for delivering your holiday decorations. See our experience shipping Neon Hearts from Our Glowing Hearts here.
Sending packages using ShippingChimp
ON to US – 5 lbs
| New York | 3-5 Business Days | $11.58 |
| Los Angeles | 3-5 Business Days | $14.69 |
| Chicago | 3-5 Business Days | $10.77 |
| Houston | 3-5 Business Days | $11.58 |
| Jacksonville | 3-5 Business Days | $11.58 |
Sending eCommerce orders through ShippingChimp is a hassle-free experience. We offer the cheapest rates when compared to national carriers and offer 53% lower costs. Start your Free Trial here.
- Top shipping companies in Toronto - April 26, 2024
- How to print shipping labels: Shipping Labels 101 - April 4, 2024
- Shipping Logistics – Best practices for eCommerce businesses - March 15, 2024
