When it comes to shipping from Canada to the US, finding cost-effective and reliable options can be a challenge. Fortunately, Canada Post offers two excellent solutions for sending small parcels internationally: Tracked Packet and Small Packets services. These services are ideal for packages weighing under 2kg and provide a balance of affordability, speed, and reliability. In this article, we'll explore more options in detail and help you choose the best method for your needs.
1. Canada Post
Tracked Packet – International Service
Canada Post's Tracked Packet – International service is designed for shipping small or lightweight items to over 30 countries, including the US. Here are some key features:
Key Features
- Flat rates: The cost to send a package from your warehouse to California, New York, or even Hawaii and Puerto Rico is the same! This feature alone can save you up to $10 per shipment, especially to the more remote destinations, and it is without doubt the biggest advantage of Track Packet
- Online Tracking: This service provides end-to-end tracking, so you can monitor your package's journey from Canada to its final destination.
- Insurance: Each shipment includes $100 CAD in insurance coverage, offering peace of mind in case of loss or damage.
- Delivery Times: Delivery to the US typically takes 4-7 business days, making it a relatively fast option for international shipping.
- Weight and Size Limits: Packages must weigh less than 2kg and fit within the size restrictions of 245 mm x 156 mm x 5 mm to 380 mm x 270 mm x 20 mm.
Cost
The cost of shipping with Tracked Packet – International varies based on the package's weight and destination. However, it is generally more affordable than other expedited services, making it a great choice for cost-conscious shippers.
Small Packets – International Service
For those looking for an even cheaper option, Canada Post's Small Packets – International service is worth considering. This service is ideal for lightweight packages and offers basic delivery without tracking.
Key Features
- Cost-Effective: Small Packets – International is one of the most affordable options for sending small parcels to the US and other countries.
- Weight and Size Limits: Like the Tracked Packet service, packages must weigh less than 2kg. Size limits range from 140 mm x 90 mm x 1 mm to 380 mm x 270 mm x 200 mm.
- Delivery Times: Delivery times can vary, typically taking 6-12 business days to reach the US.
Cost
This service is more economical than Tracked Packet – International but lacks the tracking and insurance benefits. It's a suitable choice for low-value items where tracking isn't a priority.
Comparing Tracked Packet and Small Packet
When deciding between Tracked Packet and Small Packets services, consider the following factors:
- Value of the Item: If you're shipping valuable items, the insurance and tracking offered by Tracked Packet – International make it the safer choice.
- Budget: For those on a tight budget, Small Packets – International provides a more economical solution, though without tracking and insurance. However, the price difference between Tracked Packet and Small Packet is fairly minimal recently, making Tracked Packet the clear winner in most cases.
- Delivery Speed: Tracked Packet – International offers faster delivery times compared to Small Packets – International, making it ideal for time-sensitive shipments.
2. Courier Services
UPS Standard
UPS Standard is a reliable ground shipping option for sending packages from Canada to the US. This service offers door-to-door delivery with tracking and delivery confirmation. Signing up for a UPS account can provide access to discounted rates, which are often lower than standard retail prices.
Rates vary based on package weight, dimensions, and destination. For example:
A 2kg (4.4 lbs) package from Toronto to New York City might cost around $35-40 CAD. Discounts for account holders can reduce these prices by 10-20%.
FedEx Ground
FedEx Ground is an economical option for shipping heavier packages. It offers reliable delivery within 2-7 business days, depending on the destination. Creating a FedEx account can provide access to better rates, shipping tools, and additional services. Similar to UPS, rates vary. For instance:
A 2kg package from Vancouver to Los Angeles might cost approximately $30-35 CAD. Account holders often receive discounts of 15-30%.
DHL Express
DHL Express is known for international shipping efficiency and speed. It provides door-to-door delivery with tracking and customs clearance. DHL frequently offers promotional rates and discounts for business accounts. Signing up for a business account can lead to substantial savings. Although often more expensive for ground services, it can be cost-effective for express international shipments. A 2kg package from Montreal to Chicago might cost around $50-60 CAD, but with business account discounts, this can drop by 20-40%.
3. Third-Party Shipping Services
Chit Chats
Chit Chats partners with USPS, providing significantly lower shipping rates by leveraging USPS’s domestic rates for cross-border shipping.
You would purchase the label from their platform, and drop off your package at one of their drop-off locations. They have offices and drop-off locations in BC, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada.
Service Locations
Drop-off locations are available in major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. They also offer pickups for a fee.
Pricing
- A 1kg (2.2 lbs) package to the US might cost around CAD $14.91 to California and CAD $21.35 to New York, which is much lower than standard courier rates.
- Additional small fees apply for handling, but overall savings are substantial.
Check out ChitChats' full pricing breakdown here.
Stallion Express
Similar to ChitChats, Stallion Express offers cross-border shipping, and allows you to buy discounted shipping from their platform.
Service Locations
Stallion Express' branches and drop-off locations can be found in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec.
They also offer pickups, but you would need to have at least 1,000+ shipments/month with them to use this service
Pricing
A 1kg (2.2 lbs) package from BC to the US would cost around CAD $15.24 to California and CAD $9.73 to New York
View Stallion Express' full pricing breakdown here.
netParcel
netParcel is a shipping platform that compares rates from multiple couriers (including UPS, FedEx, DHL, and more) and offers discounts for small businesses and individuals.
-
Benefits: It provides a user-friendly interface for comparing rates and services, and bulk shipping discounts.
-
Pricing: Specific rates depend on the couriers and shipment details, but typical savings include:
- A 2kg package from Calgary to Miami might cost about $25-35 CAD, depending on the chosen courier and any applied discounts.
- Businesses can see savings up to 50% off standard rates.
4. Cross-Border Manual Drop-Off
If you live close to the US border, consider driving across and mailing the package from a US post office. This way, you can use platforms such as PirateShip or ShipStation to get discounted USPS rates (and other courier rates), and just drop them off at the nearest US branch.
Tips for Shipping from Canada to the US
- The $800 threshold: Each day, you are allowed to send up to US $800 in retail value across the border. This applies to all shipping methods above.
- Package Securely: Ensure your items are well-packaged to prevent damage during transit. Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and sturdy boxes.
- Fill Out Customs Forms: Accurately complete all necessary customs documentation to avoid delays or issues at the border. Unless you want to manually bring the package across the border yourself, all the platforms mentioned above have dedicated sections for you to fill out your customs declarations on their website.
- Check Prohibited Items: Verify that your items are not on the prohibited or restricted list for import into the US.
Learn more about Shipping & Packaging here
The Bottom Line: What is The Cheapest Way to Send Packages from Canada to the US?
| Service | Best For |
|---|---|
| Canada Post Tracked Packet | Packages under 2kg with tracking |
| Canada Post Small Packets | Low-value items without tracking needs |
| UPS Standard | Reliable ground shipping with tracking |
| FedEx Ground | Heavier packages needing economical shipping |
| DHL Express | Fast international shipping with tracking |
| Chit Chats | USPS rates with a small markup |
| Stallion Express | USPS rates with a small markup |
| netParcel | Comparing multiple couriers for discounts |
| Cross-Border Drop-Off Points | Saving on international shipping costs |
By leveraging these affordable shipping options, you can confidently send packages from Canada to the US without breaking the bank.
