Frequently Asked Questions About Canpar Customs
Who pays brokerage and duty on a Canpar shipment?
The shipper or the receiver, paid to the customs broker, not to Canpar. The shipper chooses which on the Customs Pro-Forma. On COD and third-party shipments, Canpar's terms make the shipper ultimately liable for all charges, including duties and taxes, if the receiver or third party does not pay.
Does Canpar charge its own brokerage fees?
Canpar does not publish a brokerage fee schedule. Its service guide states that brokerage and duty fees are payable to the broker, and none of the fees in its accessorial list is a customs fee. Canpar's own charges are in our Canpar Surcharges & Fees guide. Ask the broker handling your shipment for their fees before you ship.
Are shipments to the U.S. under US$800 still duty-free?
Not anymore. Shipments worth US$800 or less used to enter the U.S. duty-free under the de minimis exemption, but U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has suspended it. Low-value shipments now need a formal or informal customs entry, whether they go by courier or by mail. Genuine gifts and travellers' personal items follow separate rules.
The rules are not specific to Canada and are still changing, so check CBP's e-commerce FAQs before you price a U.S. order. Canpar has its own U.S. limits too: its rate calculator caps pieces at 70 lb, and some items can't be shipped there at all, including alcohol, vape products, Cuban cigars, coins, plants and seeds. Our Canpar Services guide covers the U.S. options.
Do I need an export declaration to ship with Canpar?
Often not. CBSA states that non-restricted goods exported for consumption in the U.S., and non-restricted commercial goods worth less than CAN $2,000, do not need an export declaration. Restricted goods going to the U.S. still need the right permit, certificate or licence. See CBSA's list for the full rules.
Can customs open my Canpar package?
Yes. Canpar's terms state that customs or other government authorities may open and inspect any shipment and its contents at any time. Clearance can also add time to delivery, and delays caused by customs are excluded from Canpar's guarantee. Our Canpar Delivery Times guide covers transit times.