Shipping from Canada to the US: Your guide to saving money & time

Did you know that the U.S. is the second most common destination for Canadian retailers? As of January 2024, the U.S. has over 340 million people; it’s the largest consumer market in the world; and it’s the second-largest e-commerce market globally.

If you aren’t shipping from Canada to the U.S., or if you don’t have a simple and affordable way to ship across borders, you’re potentially missing out on business.

But don't worry; it’s never too late to start! We're in your corner, eager to see you expand your horizons and succeed. Whether it’s for international expansion or switching to a cheaper shipping solution, let's help you kick off by discussing costs, delivery times, and other things you need to consider when shipping parcels to the U.S.

Cross-border shopping is likely to keep rising in the U.S.

International e-commerce is a hit among American shoppers. From 2022 to 2023, about 2.3 million new cross-border online shoppers joined the market, resulting in a 3.4% growth rate compared to the prior year.

Plus, market research company Intelligence Insider previously forecasted that the U.S. will rank second globally in the number of cross-border buyers. Also, about 71.8 million, or a third of American online buyers, will purchase overseas in 2024. Some contributors to these are more convenient payment methods, inflation, and more affordable shipping options.

Canada and the U.S. also have a free-trade agreement, reducing tariffs on traded goods, improving market access, reducing barriers in trade sectors, and more.

There are huge opportunities for Canadian online businesses like yours in the U.S., so let's carpe diem and talk business, shall we?

What are the shipping costs from Canada to the U.S.?

Shipping costs can vary based on several factors, like the carrier, parcel size, weight, and shipping times. With Sendle, you can ship to the U.S. for as low as $6.24 and you can send parcels weighing up to 20 lbs to all 50 states.

See our latest cross-border shipping rates.

How long does it take to ship from Canada to the U.S.?

With Sendle, parcels are usually delivered within 3-10 days, depending on the pickup or drop-off location, destination, and other external factors. 

6 more things to consider when shipping from Canada to the U.S.

Aside from cost and speed, here are some other things to keep in mind when shipping from Canada to the U.S.:

1. Booking & pickups made easy

We know it. You’re probably juggling multiple tasks at once—inventory, marketing, customer service, logistics, and more—so convenience is crucial is an understatement. Thankfully, with Sendle, you can do everything online anytime, anywhere, from entering your parcel details on the Sendle Dashboard to booking a free pickup.

Booking only takes a few clicks. Once your parcel is booked, packaged, and labeled, leave it at your designated pickup location for the driver to access. Our pickup window is from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily, so be sure to have your parcels ready by then.

Meanwhile, drop-offs are also available if you need to move around. Some of our drop-off locations are open as late as 11 p.m. to accommodate as many Sendlers as possible.

2. Reliable tracking & customer support

Every Sendle shipment comes with free end-to-end tracking, so you’ll always know exactly where your parcel is on its journey. And if issues get in the way, Sendle’s customer support can help 24/7.

3. Peace of mind

We value your business as much as you do, so each parcel comes with free Sendle Cover up to CA$100. This covers loss or damage on eligible parcels without additional charges. You—and your customer—will have one less thing to worry about.

4. Positive environmental impact

Consumers connect with eco-friendly businesses in ways they never had before, aligning themselves with brands that share their values and priorities. A survey conducted by McKinsey & Co. in 2020 found that 66% of respondents, particularly 75% of whom are millennials, emphasize the importance of sustainability when making a purchase.

Here at Sendle, we share the opportunity to advocate for a healthier planet with our partners and customers. Our deliveries are 100% carbon-neutral, which means we offset carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions through noble means. And Sendle’s carbon-neutral deliveries don’t cost you or your customers anything extra, so your business can be more sustainable without breaking the bank. Feel free to mention this on your digital platforms to better connect with customers committed to environmental care.

5. No subscription requirements

Committing to a certain number of parcels can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time shipping from Canada to the U.S. We want Sendlers to ship at their convenience while ensuring a stress-free experience, so there's no pressure at all. You can send single items as you wish, without minimum parcels required.

6. Limits

Staying in the know of cross-border shipping limits can help you prevent an extra day on your delivery time or the hassle of getting your item back. It’s good to remember that:

• The maximum merchandise limit for shipments to the U.S. is US$800.
• The maximum length of parcels is 22 inches, the maximum volume is 1,728 cubic inches, and the maximum weight is 20 lbs.
  
  

From a happy Sendler

”Sendle’s door-to-door shipping service to the U.S. is a game changer for us since it helps us better compete in the U.S. and grow our business beyond Canadian borders.”

~ Anisa Musmary, founder of Wanderruff

Shipping that’s good for your business

Shipping from Canada to the U.S. is easier now than ever with Sendle. Book a shipment from your Sendle Dashboard in a couple of clicks. Save both time and money with free pickups, and enjoy affordable rates without minimum parcel requirements. Keep doing business as usual, knowing that support is available 24/7.

If you haven’t already, create your free Sendle account now and experience shipping that’s good for you, your business, and the environment.