Shipping to Canada opens new opportunities to grow your business with Canada importing goods worth over US$570 billion in 2024¹. Many businesses around the world are already tapping into this demand, reaching Canadian consumers and building long-term loyalty. With the right shipping strategy, and a little local insight, you can enter the Canadian market with confidence - and deliver quickly, reliably and profitably.
Learn how to identify the biggest opportunities and get your business ready to ship to Canada - and handle Canadian customs requirements.
Canada has one of the highest verifiable cross-border purchase rates in the world, with 55.5% of online shoppers buying from international retailers in the past year.2
Online shoppers in Canada are savvy: they research prices, compare across borders, and expect transparency on duties and taxes.
43% of cross-border purchases by Canadians are made through mobile devices, and this number is expected to exceed 55% by the end of 2025.3
A majority of Canadian imports into Canada come from the United States, followed by imports from China, Mexico and Germany.4
Top 5 B2C marketplaces5
1. Amazon.ca
Vast product selection and reliability makes this Canadian subsidiary a regular destination for shoppers.
2. Walmart.ca
Exceptional brand presence makes Walmart a go to seller offering online-offline convenience.
3. Costco.ca
Bulk buys, special offers and great discounts are the primary reasons Canadians go to Costco online
The sporty, practical spirit of the country is why so many shoppers go to Canadian Tire for the automotive, sporting and household goods.
5. eBay.ca
Unique and second-hand items are a growing sector for the country’s online shoppers. Ebay offers one-off buys and auction excitement.
The leading product category for Canadian shoppers buying internationally is personal care and beauty. Consumer electronics, clothing, home goods, and accessories round out the top five.
Canadian shoppers are accustomed to paying for their purchases in one of these ways.6
Display prices in CAD, use Canadian English, and consider Canadian themes/promos around major holidays like Canadian Thanksgiving, Boxing Day.
Avoid “border shock”: Canadians appreciate seeing all shipping and delivery costs upfront at checkout. Use Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) to ensure a smoother delivery experience.
A clear, friendly return policy goes a long way – especially for apparel.
Here’s a calendar of the top purchasing holidays in Canada
When shipping to Canada there are several pieces of documentation commonly required to clear goods through customs smoothly and help authorities determine what import taxes and duties are due:
This dedicated guide goes into detail on each document, including what information you’ll need to complete it.
Canadian shoppers expect transparency on duties and taxes on items purchased. One of the main friction points is unexpected fees at checkout/delivery, which can lead to cart abandonment or refused shipments.
1. De Minimis Thresholds (Duties & and Taxes)
- Goods valued under CAD $150 are duty-free under most trade agreements. For the latest up-to-date information, check the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website or talk to DHL Express.
- Goods valued under CAD $40 are tax-exempt.
- Between CAD $40–$150, only taxes (GST/HST) are collected.
- Over CAD $150, both duties and taxes apply.
This makes low-value shipments (e.g., under $150 CAD) ideal for B2C cross-border brands.
2. Sales Tax (GST/HST)
- The CIF value = Cost of goods + Insurance + Freight.
3. Customs Duties
Trade agreements like CUSMA (formerly NAFTA), CPTPP (for countries such as Japan, Australia and Singapore) or CETA (European Union)may allow reduced or zero tariffs on some goods if proper origin documentation is provided. Goods from countries without agreements are usually subject to standard tariffs. Estimate duties and taxes HERE.
4. Tariff Codes & Classification Are Critical
Learn more about HS codes.
5. Returns Can Be Taxed, Too
Tip: Offer local returns in Canada or set clear return policies that factor in potential tax or duty loss.
Health, Beauty, and Wellness Products
- All cosmetics must follow the Cosmetic Regulations under the Food and Drugs Act.
- Natural health products (like herbal remedies or dietary supplements) require a Natural Product Number (NPN).
- Incomplete labeling or claims like “cures X” may result in your products being stopped at customs.
Tip: Stick to truthful, non-medical claims and double-check ingredient approval using Health Canada’s online database.
Textiles and Apparel
Tip: Make sure your apparel labels meet Competition Bureau standards, especially for fiber content and origin claims like “Made in India.”
Electronics and Battery-Powered Goods
- Most electronics require CSA, UL, or equivalent certification.
- Lithium batteries must meet Transport Canada’s dangerous goods requirements.
Tip: Only list electronics for sale in Canada if they’ve been certified or pre-approved for import.
If you're selling on marketplaces like Amazon.ca: Low Prices – Fast Shipping – Millions of Items or through your own storefront, compliance is essential to avoid product delistings or delays.
Join the thousands of small businesses successfully selling their products to Canadian consumers with the help of DHL Express.
Start shipping to Canada and save
1. Canada - Import of goods 2024| Statista
2. Cross-Border Online Shopping Statistics (2025): eCommerce Data
3. Topic: Online shopping behavior in Canada
5. Top B2C eCommerce Marketplaces in Canada
6. Biggest e-commerce payment brands in Canada 2024| Statista
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