Top 7 International Courier Services in 2024

Most eCommerce stores dream of expanding their business overseas, allowing them to cater to different audiences on the other side of the world. However, in an age where the world has become a global marketplace, and our lives are intertwined on a global scale, the need for trustworthy international courier services have never been more pressing.

This article will meticulously assess the top international shipping couriers of 2023. We will consider important factors, including delivery time, cost, reliability, tracking, and global coverage. Additionally, we will offer helpful tips for choosing the right international courier for your eCommerce shipping needs.

What are the best international courier services available in Canada?

Canada gives businesses seeking to ship internationally numerous shipping services, from renowned global carriers to specialized local providers.

1. Stallion

Stallion is a Canada-based shipping company that offers numerous eCommerce shipping services, including cross-border and international shipping. They have established themselves as a reliable shipping collaborator for numerous online sellers across Canada.

• Cross-Border Shipping. Stallion empowers Canadian eCommerce sellers to compete effectively with their US counterparts by granting them access to discounted rates on USPS postage. This strategic advantage allows Canadian sellers to offer competitive pricing and expand their market reach across the board while providing cost-effective shipping solutions to their customers.
• International Shipping. Stallion collaborates with esteemed partners, namely APC Logistics and PostNL, to deliver a high-calibre, swift, and dependable shipping service. This strategic partnership not only enhances shipping efficiency but also empowers businesses to expand their global presence.

Key Features

• Easy-to-use shipping software. Stallion provides a user-friendly shipping software solution that simplifies the process of creating and managing shipments. This straightforward software is designed to streamline the shipping experience, offering convenience and efficiency to users as they prepare and oversee their shipments.
• Integration with Popular eCommerce Platforms. Users can seamlessly integrate with a range of popular eCommerce platforms and marketplaces, including Amazon, Shopify, and Walmart. This integration enhances the convenience and accessibility for eCommerce businesses, allowing them to effortlessly sync their operations with Stallion for efficient and synchronized shipping solutions.
• Lowest International Shipping Rates. Stallion has earned a positive reputation for its cost-effective shipping rates. These favourable rates are made possible through direct partnerships with prominent couriers.
• Faster Delivery Times than National Carrier. Stallion sets itself apart by offering faster delivery times compared to national carriers. This quicker delivery is achieved through a combination of strategic partnerships, efficient logistics, and an extensive network.

2. Canada Post International

Canada Post International is a division of Canada Post that provides international shipping services to over 190 countries and territories worldwide. It offers numerous shipping options with its own delivery times and costs, allowing you to choose the most fitting choice for your needs.

• Small Packet International: This economical shipping option is tailored for small packages weighing up to 2 kilograms. The delivery duration typically spans between 6 to 12 business days.
• Tracked Packet International: This service is pricier than Small Packet International but provides the added benefits of package tracking and international shipment protection. Delivery times generally fall within 6 to 12 business days.
• Xpresspost International: It is the swiftest international shipping service of Canada Post. While the exact delivery period hinges on the receiver's location, it commonly falls within 2 to 4 business days.
• Expedited Parcel International: This service is tailored for larger international shipments, accommodating weights of up to 30 kgs. The delivery timeline typically lasts between 4 to 8 business days.

Key Features

• Reliable Delivery: It has established a good reputation for its dependable delivery and logistics services, ensuring that your package is highly likely to reach its destination in a timely manner and in excellent condition.
• Competitive Shipping Rates: It provides competitive international rates, allowing you to evaluate and contrast these rates with those of other carriers to determine the most advantageous choice that aligns with your specific requirements.
• Convenience: Canada Post International makes it easy to ship internationally because shippers can buy a shipping label online and then conveniently drop off the package at either a Canada Post retail outlet or mailbox.

3. FedEx

FedEx is a prominent leader in the domains of transportation, eCommerce, and business solutions. They offer numerous shipping services to businesses and individuals created to fulfill different needs and produce dependable results across Canada.

• FedEx International Express: A speedy and reliable shipping service accommodating packages weighing up to 70 kg with a delivery timeframe spanning 1 to 5 business days.
• FedEx International Economy: An affordable shipping option with a 2 to 5 business days delivery period designed for packages weighing up to 150 kg.
• FedEx International Ground: This shipping option is tailored for substantial packages or weighty parcels, accommodating up to 150 kg, with delivery timelines spanning 2 to 7 business days for shipments from Canada to the United States.
• FedEx International Freight: A shipping solution catering to sizable or substantial packages exceeding 150 kg, delivering 3 to 5 business days for destinations spanning over 130 countries and territories worldwide.

Key Features

• Global Growth: Delivers packages almost anywhere because of its extensive global network of shipping facilities and strategic transportation partnerships.
• Customs Clearance Assistance: Supports you when completing the customs documents for your international shipments. This assistance will be instrumental in minimizing potential delays and ensuring the timely delivery of your package.
• Specialized Shipping Services: Provides a range of specialized international shipping solutions, including FedEx Trade Network, FedEx eDirect, and FedEx SenseAware. These services make it easier to ship diverse items, including sensitive cargo, small parcels, and large or heavy packages.

4. DHL

DHL is a prominent global logistics leader, extending a comprehensive array of shipping, transportation, and logistics solutions catering to both businesses and individuals.

• DHL Express: A quick and reliable shipping service accommodating packages weighing up to 70 kg and having delivery times of 1 to 5 business days.
• DHL International Air is a premium international shipping service providing expedited and reliable air freight solutions for businesses and individuals. It ensures swift and secure package delivery of up to 30 kgs worldwide within 2 to 5 business days.
• DHL International Ocean is an ocean freight service offering affordable and efficient cargo shipping solutions for businesses. It transports goods via sea routes, accommodating both full-container loads (FCL) and less-than-container loads (LCL). It has a delivery window of 3 to 7 business days.
• DHL Parcel International: A shipping option for small parcels weighing up to 2 kg, featuring delivery times ranging from 2 to 5 business days.

Key Features

• Convenient Shipping Options: DHL simplifies international shipping by allowing customers to purchase shipping labels online and offering the convenience of dropping off packages at DHL ServicePoint locations or arranging pickup from your business or residence.
• Specialized Shipping Services: It provides specialized international shipping solutions, including DHL Global Forwarding, DHL eCommerce, and DHL Supply Chain.
• On-Demand Delivery: It provides on-demand delivery options for any international shipment, allowing you to specify a preferred delivery time and date or securely hold your package at a DHL ServicePoint location for convenient pickup at your leisure.

5. UPS

UPS extends a wide range of shipping, transportation, and logistics portfolio. These services cater to the distinct requirements of businesses and individuals, ensuring efficient and reliable shipping solutions across Canada and beyond.

• UPS Worldwide Express: It offers fast and time-definite delivery of international packages and documents weighing up to 70 kg. This service ensures your shipments reach their destination quickly, often within 1 to 5 business days, with guaranteed delivery times and international tracking capabilities.
• UPS Worldwide Expedited: It is a service that provides cost-effective and timely package and document delivery of up to 30 kg to over 220 countries and territories. It offers reliable and efficient global shipping, with delivery typically within 2-5 business days.
• UPS Worldwide Standard: A global shipping service that provides reliable and affordable shipping solutions for goods and documents up to 30 kg. The delivery times are between 3 to 7 business days.
• UPS Worldwide Express Plus: It provides the highest level of expedited shipping for packages up to 70 kg with guaranteed delivery by 8:30 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. to most major cities worldwide.
• UPS Worldwide Saver: It is an international shipping service accommodating packages weighing up to 7 kg. It typically ensures delivery within 2-4 business days.

Key Features

• Specialized Shipping Services: It provides numerous international shipping services, including UPS Trade Direct, UPS Supply Chain Solutions, UPS Healthcare, and UPS Automotive.
• Shipment Protection: UPS has numerous shipment protection options for international shipments, offering peace of mind by safeguarding your package against potential loss, damage, or theft during transit.
• Customer Support: UPS ensures 24/7 customer support for its international shipping services, guaranteeing assistance regardless of your location. This round-the-clock support enhances the convenience and reliability of their services, providing customers with assistance whenever it's needed.

6. Purolator International

Purolator is a cross-border courier service catering to the shipping needs of businesses and individuals moving goods between the United States and Canada. Its inception in 1993 addressed the increasing demand for efficient cross-border shipping solutions between these neighbouring nations.

• Purolator Express International: It provides fast and reliable shipping solutions for parcels and documents weighing up to 70 kg. Delivery times typically range from 1 to 5 business days in over 210 countries and territories worldwide.
• Purolator Standard International: A shipping solution for packages weighing up to 30 kg, delivering within 3-7 business days to over 210 countries.
• Purolator Economy International: A shipping service accommodating international shipments up to 30 kg, typically ensuring delivery within 5-10 business days to over 210 countries.
• Purolator Freight: A shipping service designed for handling large or heavy goods exceeding 70 kg in weight. This service is suitable for businesses or individuals with substantial shipping needs requiring the transportation of bulky or weighty items across the border.

Key Features

• Cross-Border Expertise: Purolator International boasts substantial expertise in cross-border shipping. The company offers comprehensive support for all facets of your shipment, encompassing customs clearance and freight forwarding, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free shipping experience.
• Commitment to Innovation: Purolator International is committed to continuous improvement through investments in innovative technologies and services to enhance the shipping journey for its customers.
• Support For The Community: It actively contributes to the well-being of the communities in which it operates. The company serves as a dedicated sponsor of numerous community events and initiatives. Additionally, its employees generously volunteer their time to provide support to local charities and organizations.

7. Loomis Express

Loomis Express is a Canadian logistics and freight transportation firm offering domestic and international shipping solutions to individuals and businesses. Established in 1905, Loomis Express is a subsidiary of TFI International, a prominent transportation and logistics company serving North America.

• Air Freight: It is the swiftest international shipping option available. The company presents a diverse range of air freight services tailored to its customers' requirements, encompassing door-to-door, airport-to-airport, and airport-to-door delivery options.
• Ocean Freight: It provides a cost-effective solution for international shipping. The company offers a range of ocean freight services tailored to customer requirements, including full container load (FCL) shipments, less-than-container load (LCL) shipments, and roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) shipments.
• Ground Freight: It is the most economical international shipping choice. The company presents an array of ground freight options designed to cater to customer demands, encompassing standard ground freight, expedited ground freight, and cross-border ground freight services.

Key Features

• Reliable Delivery: It earned a reputation for its dependable delivery services. The company boasts a robust track record of punctual deliveries, with packages consistently arriving in excellent condition.
• Competitive Rates: It provides cost-effective shipping rates, allowing customers to compare them with those of other carriers to identify the most suitable option for their specific requirements.
• Customer Service: It is dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service. The company maintains a team of proficient and well-informed customer service professionals ready to assist customers with every facet of their shipping requirements.

How do you choose from the best international courier services?

To choose the best international courier service for your needs, you should consider the following factors:

Identify Your Needs

Identifying your needs is vital because it enables you to match the service to your unique requirements. This ensures cost-effective, timely, and reliable shipping that aligns with your budget, package size, destination, and special handling or tracking needs.

Research Courier Service Availability

Researching courier service availability is crucial because it ensures that the courier operates in your desired locations. This prevents last-minute complications, guarantees timely deliveries, and helps you choose a courier that aligns with your shipping destinations and coverage needs.

Cost Analysis

Conducting a cost analysis is essential because it allows you to manage expenses effectively. By comparing pricing structures, surcharges, and shipping options, you can select a courier that aligns with your budget, ensuring cost efficiency while meeting your shipping needs without unexpected financial surprises.

Track Record and Reliability

Researching track record and reliability assures you of timely and secure deliveries. A courier's history of on-time performance and reputation for safe handling of packages reduces the risk of delays, losses, or damages, ensuring a dependable shipping experience for your business or personal needs.

Coverage and Destinations

Understanding coverage and destinations ensures your chosen courier can reach your intended locations. Comprehensive coverage prevents logistical issues, offering reliable and efficient shipping solutions that align with your global distribution needs, saving time and reducing shipping complexities.

Customer Support

Effective communication and responsive support are vital for addressing queries, resolving issues, and ensuring smooth shipments. Good customer support enhances overall satisfaction, reliability, and the ability to handle unexpected situations, making it a critical factor in decision-making.

Tracking and Security

Imagine the peace of mind it could give if you can easily track your shipment. Package tracking provides transparency and ensures customers can monitor the progress of their shipments. Security measures protect against losses or theft, instilling trust and confidence in the courier's ability to safeguard valuable and sensitive items during transit.

Shipment Protection

It safeguards against potential loss, damage, or theft during transit, providing assurance and financial security. Choosing a courier with robust shipment protection options ensures peace of mind and minimizes risks associated with shipping valuable or fragile items across borders.

Customs Expertise

A shipping partner who can help you with customs paperwork can streamline international shipping, save time and costs. A courier with expertise can navigate these complexities, ensuring proper documentation, compliance with regulations, and minimizing delays or customs-related issues.

Terms and Conditions

When selecting international courier services, reading the terms and conditions is crucial for transparency and informed decision-making. It clarifies responsibilities, reveals hidden costs, defines liability, highlights service limitations, and outlines dispute resolution procedures. Understanding these details ensures a smoother, cost-effective, and reliable shipping experience.

Key Takeaway

The critical takeaway for choosing from the best international courier services in 2023 is prioritizing your needs and preferences. Conduct thorough research to assess delivery speed, cost, reliability, tracking, and destination coverage. Choose the service that fits your needs the best.

Ship To A Global Audience with Stallion

Stallion offers a comprehensive solution for businesses expanding their reach and shipping to a global audience. With a network spanning numerous countries and territories, Stallion provides reliable international courier services, ensuring your products reach customers worldwide swiftly and securely, facilitating global business growth.