4 Steps to Ship to the US from Canada

Shipping from Canada to the United States involves several critical steps. Even minor errors can lead to costly delays and complications.

By identifying and addressing potential pitfalls before they occur, businesses can not only save on unnecessary expenses but also enhance the efficiency of their shipping operations and improve customer satisfaction.

In this blog, we'll explore the four essential steps for seamless shipping from Canada to the US, whether you're sending small parcels or large freight. From understanding customs regulations to choosing the right carrier, these steps will help ensure your shipments arrive on time and without any hitches.

Join us as we guide you through the process, offering practical tips and insights to make your cross-border shipping experience as smooth and efficient as possible.

1. Understand Shipping Regulations Between Canada and the US

Shipping from Canada to the United States involves adhering to specific shipping regulations to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Understanding and complying with these regulations is crucial for successful cross-border shipping. Below are key aspects to consider:

Customs Compliance

All shipments must comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. This includes submitting accurate and complete documentation such as the Certificate of Origin, Customs Invoice, and Bill of Lading.

• Certificate of Origin: Verifies the country where the goods were manufactured and is necessary for determining the applicable tariffs under agreements like the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
• Customs Invoice: Provides detailed information about the shipment's value, including the quantity, unit price, and total value of the goods. This is essential for calculating duties and taxes.
• Bill of Lading: Serves as a contract between the shipper, consignee, and carrier, detailing the terms of transportation and ownership of the goods.

Tariffs and Duties

Shipments may be subject to tariffs and duties based on the type and value of goods being transported. Understanding the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes is essential for determining the correct duty rates.

Under the USMCA, many goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment, which can reduce or eliminate duties, provided that the proper documentation is submitted.

Import Restrictions and Prohibited Items

Certain goods are restricted or prohibited from entering the U.S. due to health, safety, and environmental concerns. It is important to check the CBP guidelines on restricted and prohibited items before shipping.

Items such as certain agricultural products, firearms, and hazardous materials have specific import requirements that must be adhered to.

Labeling and Packaging Requirements

Proper labeling and packaging are essential for compliance with US regulations. This includes ensuring that all packages are clearly marked with the correct information, such as the country of origin, contents, and any necessary warning labels.

Packaging should be secure to prevent damage during transit and to comply with regulations regarding the transport of specific goods.

Transportation and Logistics

Choosing the right carrier and transportation method is vital for timely and efficient delivery. Working with carriers experienced in cross-border shipping can help navigate the complexities of customs procedures.

Understanding the logistics involved in cross-border shipping, including transit times and potential delays at the border, can help in planning and managing shipments effectively.

By thoroughly understanding and adhering to these regulations, businesses can ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process from Canada to the United States, avoiding delays and additional costs.

2. Choose the Right Shipping Method: Courier vs. LTL

When shipping to the US from Canada, the two most common shipping services used by small-to-medium-sized businesses are courier and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. Each method has its own advantages and considerations.

Courier Services

Courier services are typically used for smaller shipments weighing less than 100 lbs. These services are known for their speed, convenience, and reliability.

Courier services are designed for quick delivery, often within 1-3 business days. They offer a high level of reliability with detailed tracking systems that allow businesses and customers to monitor the shipment in real time.

These services are ideal for urgent or time-sensitive deliveries.

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Shipping

LTL shipping is used for larger shipments that do not require a full truckload. It involves consolidating multiple shipments from different businesses into one truck.

LTL shipping is more cost-effective than full truckload (FTL) shipping because businesses only pay for the portion of the truck's space their shipment occupies. This makes it an economical choice for shipping larger, but not full, loads.

This method is particularly beneficial for small-to-medium-sized businesses looking to save on shipping costs.

By understanding the advantages and considerations of both courier and LTL shipping, small-to-medium-sized businesses can make informed decisions that best meet their shipping needs.

Whether prioritizing speed and convenience or cost-effectiveness and flexibility, choosing the right shipping method is crucial for successful cross-border shipping between Canada and the United States.

3. Prepare Your Shipment for Cross-Border Delivery

To ensure a seamless cross-border delivery, proper preparation of your shipment is essential. Follow these steps to prepare your shipment:

Packaging

Use sturdy and secure packaging that can withstand the rigors of transportation. Properly cushion fragile items and seal packages to prevent damage.

For LTL shipments, ensure that the pallets you are shipping, particularly wood pallets, are compliant with any cross-border regulations.

Customs Compliance

Complete all necessary shipping documents accurately and thoroughly.

Ensure your shipment complies with customs regulations by providing accurate descriptions, values, and classifications of the goods being shipped. Be prepared to pay any applicable duties and taxes.

Labeling

Clearly label your packages with the recipient's address and contact information, as well as any required customs labels or markings.

When labelling a pallet for LTL, it is best practice to place a label on each side of the pallet for maximum visibility.

By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of delays or issues during the cross-border shipping process.

4. Leverage Freightcom’s Technology and Expertise for Efficient Shipping

Freightcom’s easy-to-use all-in-one shipping management platform connects businesses with the most trusted freight and parcel carriers in the industry, offering discounted rates on a wide range of shipping services, all in the most complete shipping management platform, and for zero upfront or monthly fees.

Talk to one of our shipping experts today and see how Freightcom can help keep your cross-border shipments on track, on time, and on budget.