The process of sending a package across the border may initially seem complex. Still, essential considerations can impact your shipment's overall success, such as understanding postages to the USA from Canada.
Canada Post offers the following US-to-Canada postal services.
Standard-Sized Mail includes letter envelopes, standard cards, and postcards. Dimensions are strictly considered when sending these mail items:
| Size: | Minimum Dimension:140 mm x 90 mm x 0.18 mm Maximum Dimension:245 mm x 156 mm x 5 mm |
| Size: | Minimum Dimension:140 mm x 90 mm x 0.18 mm Maximum Dimension: 235 mm x 120 mm |
| Weight: | Equal to less than 50 kg |
Non-Standard Mails are usually oversized or come in unusual shapes. However, the weight and size restrictions must be taken into account when sending this type of mail.
This mail includes envelopes containing more than one mail item or heavier items like catalogues or paper bundles.
| Weight: | 50 to 500 grams |
| Size: | Minimum Dimension:140 mm x 90 mm x 0.18 mm Maximum Dimension:380 mm x 270 mm x 20 mm |
You may use Canada Post’s parcel services if you send mail over 500 grams (1.1 lb). Please refer to the details below for the available postage services from Canada to the USA.
Canada Post Xpresspost is a premium and expedited shipping service designed for delivering parcels between 2-3 business days. This option comes with a tracking number, allowing the sender and recipient to monitor the package status and location during transit. You can drop off the parcels at a post office box nationwide.
Xpresspost also includes the following:
Expedited Parcel is Canada Post’s quick and affordable postal service option. This ground shipping service is ideal for sending packages weighing 30 kg and above. The estimated delivery time for this option is 4-7 business days, and it comes with a tracking feature, delivery updates, and a $100 insurance inclusion.
You may also take advantage of a return-to-sender feature for an extra charge.
Canada Post Tracked Packet is a cost-effective shipping service ideal for small and lightweight parcels. This comes in low postage rates that are fixed according to the parcel weight, which should not exceed 2 kgs (4.4 lbs). This option includes a $100 insurance coverage, full tracking, and easy customs clearance processing.
Canada Post Small Packet is the perfect option for parcels that do not exceed 2 kgs (4.4 lbs). This economical air shipping service is best for non-time-sensitive packages. The delivery time frame is from 5 to 8 business days. However, please note that this option does not include tracking and insurance features.
It is a premium shipping service Canada Post offers for quick and reliable delivery to the United States. With fast delivery of 2 to 3 business days, it's an ideal choice for time-sensitive shipments.
This service includes tracking, delivery confirmation, and an on-time delivery guarantee, ensuring timely parcel arrival. It suits businesses looking for expedited shipping with the added convenience of online tracking and label creation.
It offers peace of mind, speed, and visibility for shipments to various destinations in the United States, making it a preferred choice for urgent deliveries.
International Parcel Air is an excellent choice when you need to send larger parcels to any international destination, including the United States, in a cost-effective manner. It accommodates bulkier items and packages, making it ideal for businesses and individuals.
This service becomes particularly valuable when shipping to countries that do not provide the Xpsresspost International option, ensuring a reliable alternative for your international shipping needs.
Consider International Parcel Surface for a cheap shipping method to the United States and other international destinations. This is best suited for non-urgent shipments, for which delivery time is not a top priority.
With International Parcel Surface, you can cut shipping expenses while ensuring your packages arrive at their international destinations. Although it could take a little longer than air services for your package, it provides an affordable option for transporting items or boxes abroad.
Here’s a table to guide you on the latest postal rates from Canada to the USA. You may find a rate at Canada Post’s homepage to get the correct postage updates and rates.
| Postal Service | Postal Rate |
Standard Size Mail | Stamps(Mail weighing 30 grams up to 5 paper sheets)$1.30 |
Postcards and Letter Envelopes(Mail weighing 30 - 50 grams, up to 9 paper sheets)$1.94 | |
Non Standard Size Mail | Mail weighing 50 - 100 grams, up to 20 paper sheets$3.19 |
Mail weighing 100 grams - 200 grams, up to 40 paper sheets$5.57 | |
Mail weighing 200 grams - 500 grams$11.14 | |
Xpresspost | Mail weighing up to 500 grams$26.37 |
| 500 grams - 1 kgStarts at $33.82 | |
| Up to 1.5 kg$34.91 | |
| Maximum Weight of 30 kgStarts at $192.06 | |
Expedited Parcel | For the first 500 grams $20.35 |
| 500 grams - 1 kgStarts at $22.24 | |
| 1 kg - 1.5 kgStarts at $24.03 | |
| 29.5 - 30 kgStarts at $119.34 | |
Tracked Packet | Up to 100 gramsFixed at $13.36 |
| 100 grams - 250 grams $17.08 | |
| 250 - 500 grams $18.77 | |
| 500 grams - 1 kg $21.52 | |
| 1 kg - 1.5 kg $24.19 | |
| 1.5 - 2 kg $26.84 | |
Small Packet | Up to 100 grams $7.74 |
| 100 - 250 grams $9.48 | |
| 250 - 500 grams $12.43 | |
| 500 grams - 1 kg $18.27 | |
| 1 kg - 1.5 kg $21.35 | |
| 1.5 - 2 kg $23.97 |
Here are the services Canada Post offers to its Canadian customers. Please take note that some of the services below may be applicable to domestic shipping only:
Aside from US postal services, Canada Post also offers reliable international shipping services. They are trusted for shipping items around the world, making it convenient for those looking to connect with customers from international destinations. Their international shipping options include:
Canada Post Canada Post offers Signature and Identity Services, which ensures that there is a proof of delivery upon a personal hand-off of the item and that the parcel is handed over to a person with a valid ID.
Canada Post offers flat-rate shipping. However, please note that this service is available for packages weighing not more than 5 kgs bound for shipping across Canada. Here’s a breakdown of the flat rate boxes and their prices, which you may purchase online:
| Flat Rate Box Size | Dimensions | Price |
| Extra Small Flat Rate Boxes | 24.1 x 16.5 x 8.9 cm | $16.99 |
| Small Flat Rate Boxes | 35cm x 26 cm x 5cm | $19.99 |
| Medium Flat Rate Boxes | 39 cm x 26 cm x 12 cm | $24.99 |
| Large Flat Rate Boxes | 40 cm x 30 cm x 19 cm | $32.99 |
Collect On Delivery (COD)* is a delivery option wherein the delivery courier collects the payment on behalf of the sender before handing the package over to the recipient.
*Service is available only for domestic delivery.
Some items that Canada Post does not ship to USA include:
You deserve to ship your products in the smoothest way possible. So, here are some handy tips you may want to consider adding to your checklist:
It helps to stay informed about the latest Canada postage rates. These rate adjustments can impact your business’s bottom line, affecting everything from pricing strategies to customer satisfaction.
To ensure that you’re not caught off guard, it’s essential to keep an eye on any updates from the postal service or courier companies you partner with. You may subscribe to their newsletters, follow their social media accounts, and regularly check their websites for the latest postage rate changes. Or, you may also consider joining industry forums and groups where both sellers and customers share insights and updates on shipping costs and regulations.
A postage meter is a special device used by businesses to print postage directly into envelopes, labels, or other mailing materials. It is a handy alternative to using traditional stamps.
With the use of postage meters, you can accurately weigh your mail and calculate and print the exact postage required, eliminating the need for a physical postage stamp. These machines are often leased from postal services or authorized providers, offering convenience and cost-saving benefits, especially for companies that send out a high volume of mail.
Checking the accuracy of your customer’s shipping address is a must for every Canadian business owner sending packages from Canada to the US. It is a simple yet vital step to avoid shipping issues and delays.
Always double-check the recipient’s address to ensure there are no typos or missing details. Also, do not forget to include the ZIP code, as it works as the postal GPS for their package. When shipping to the US, remember that every detail matters, from street names to house numbers. Keep an eye out for any special address requirements for the destination, as different places may have unique formats.
Use proper packaging to give your shipment protective armour for transit across the border. Canadian entrepreneurs like you should pay close attention to this important step when sending mail.
Use sturdy boxes or envelopes to safeguard your products, and add a little extra cushioning to prevent damage. Some items need extra care, so using bubble wraps or packing peanuts can go a long way. Use high-quality, strong tape to seal everything up and keep your parcels intact. Also, don’t forget to clearly label the packages with both the sender’s and recipient’s accurate addresses.
Tracking and monitoring shipments is like having a pair of eyes on your packages when it’s miles away. Taking advantage of tracking options helps you keep tabs on your shipment’s journey in real time, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to keep your customers in the loop. Plus, you can proactively address any delivery hiccups and provide accurate delivery times to your customers.
For many people and businesses looking to efficiently control shipping expenses, lowering the cost of Canada Post's postage meter is definitely a goal. Cost savings in postage can lead to more competitive pricing, better profit margins, and improved overall efficiency in shipping operations.
Choose a carrier that matches your needs. If your shipment does not require express shipping and is not time-sensitive, consider using slower, less expensive options like ground shipping. You will instantly notice price drops with these minimal changes.
If you frequently send items to the same international destination, consider consolidating multiple shipments whenever possible to save money. Sending one larger package instead of several smaller ones can be more cost-effective.
Canada Post offers flat-rate boxes for certain services. These boxes allow you to ship items at a fixed rate regardless of weight, which can be cost-effective for heavier items and does not affect the postage meters. While you cannot purchase a flat-rate box online, you can buy it from any post office across Canada. There are three sizes you can choose from: small flat-rate boxes (35cmx25cmx5cm), medium flat-rate boxes (39cmx26cmx12cm), and large flat-rate boxes (40cmx30cmx19cm).
Ensure the box is within the maximum weight of 5kg or the allotted maximum size of the boxes. Otherwise, it won't be accepted. Once you're ready to ship your package, you can drop off small flat-rate boxes in a street letter box.
Canada Post frequently provides attractive discounts and money-saving opportunities when buying personal and business mail online. Using these online services, you can maximize your savings, reduce postage meters, and simplify your shipping process.
Use Canada Post's comprehensive online tools, which you can generate and print postage and shipping labels, figure out the postage meter, and track your packages in real-time, ensuring your customers receive their packages
If your business routinely sends business mail in a substantial volume, you could potentially unlock significant cost savings through bulk mailing discounts. These programs are tailored to accommodate high-volume mailers, offering reduced postage meters that can substantially lower your overall shipping ependitures.
It is essential to get in touch with Canada Post to learn more about the advantages of bulk mailing and to find out your eligibility. They can guide you through the application process, outline the specific requirements, and provide insights into how this tailored direct mail solution can enhance the cost-efficiency of your mailing operations.
If your businesses regularly mail items in a significant volume, you can negotiate customized postage rates with Canada Post (or use a discounted shipping provider like Stallion). These custom prices can optimize your shipping expenses and enhance the competitiveness of your operations.
Apart from the cost-saving options online, Canada Post occasionally offers promotions and discounts, especially if you mail items during holidays or peak seasons. Keep an eye out for these promotional opportunities to save on postage expenses.
Check the factors that can lead to a surcharge, such as irregularly shaped packaging, not following the standard size mail requirement, oversized mail, incorrect addressing, and insufficient postage. Ensure your packages comply with Canada Post's guidelines and international customs regulations to avoid additional fees. Check whether it's correct postage, address, location, and more.
Explore alternative delivery options or third-party shipping services and compare their rates with Canada Post. Some third-party providers offer competitive international postage rates and additional shipping options.
Since international postage rates tend to be more expensive, reviewing your shipping procedures regularly to find places to cut costs can be beneficial. Search for inefficiencies and make necessary adjustments.
If you're looking for a cheap alternative to Canada Post when shipping to the United States, Stallion can be your cross-border shipping partner. We provide on-time deliveries for our shipping services, assuring our clients of timely and dependable parcel and package deliveries.
Also, our rates are some of the lowest on the market for the same benefits. Partnered with national carriers, we provide the fastest services and postage at a very affordable cost.
Diana leads the growth marketing initiatives at Stallion Express. As a personal trainer turned digital marketer, Diana is obsessed with equipping eCommerce entrepreneurs with everything they need to scale their online businesses. You can catch her doing yoga or hitting the tennis courts in her spare time.
Read all posts written by Diana Zheng
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