Cross-Border Freight Services Canada-US

Navigate the complexities of Canada-US cross-border shipping with our expert freight brokerage and customs clearance services. We ensure your shipments cross the border smoothly with full compliance and minimal delays.

Expert Customs Clearance

Our experienced team handles all customs documentation, duty calculations, and compliance requirements for both Canadian and US customs regulations. We work with licensed customs brokers to ensure smooth border crossings at all major crossing points.

USMCA Compliance

Take advantage of duty-free shipping opportunities under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. We help you navigate USMCA requirements and ensure proper documentation for eligible shipments.

Major Border Crossings

We service all major Canada-US border crossings including Windsor-Detroit, Buffalo-Fort Erie, Laredo, Blaine-Douglas, and more. Our carrier network ensures efficient routing through the most appropriate crossing points.

Understanding Cross-Border Freight Shipping

Cross-border freight shipping between Canada and the United States represents one of the world's largest bilateral trade relationships, with over $700 billion in goods crossing the border annually. Successfully navigating this complex process requires expertise in customs regulations, documentation requirements, and border crossing procedures. Our cross-border freight services eliminate the complexities, ensuring your shipments move seamlessly between countries with full compliance and minimal delays. Whether you're shipping from Toronto to New York, Vancouver to Seattle, or Montreal to Boston, we provide comprehensive cross-border solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Border Crossing Optimization

Strategic border crossing selection can significantly impact transit times and costs. We analyze your shipment origin, destination, freight type, and timing to select the optimal border crossing point. Major crossings include the Windsor-Detroit Ambassador Bridge (handling 25% of all Canada-US trade), Buffalo-Fort Erie Peace Bridge, Laredo World Trade Bridge, Blaine-Douglas Pacific Highway, and dozens of other crossing points across the 5,525-mile border. Our carrier network includes FAST (Free and Secure Trade) program participants who receive expedited processing at the border, reducing typical crossing times from hours to minutes.

Customs Compliance and Documentation

Proper documentation is critical for smooth customs clearance. Required documents include commercial invoices with detailed product descriptions and values, bills of lading as legal transportation documents, packing lists detailing contents and packaging, certificates of origin for USMCA eligibility, and various permits or certificates depending on product type. Our team works with licensed customs brokers on both sides of the border to ensure all paperwork is accurate and complete before your shipment arrives at the border. We also handle electronic filing requirements including ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) e-manifest for US entries and ACI (Advance Commercial Information) for Canadian entries.

Duty and Tax Management

Understanding duty and tax obligations is essential for accurate freight costing. Imports to Canada are subject to applicable customs duties based on tariff classification, GST (5%), and provincial sales taxes. Imports to the United States face customs duties, merchandise processing fees (0.3464% of value), and harbor maintenance fees for ocean shipments. However, products qualifying under USMCA may enter duty-free, resulting in significant cost savings. We help determine product eligibility, calculate accurate duty estimates, and can arrange payment through our broker partners to simplify your accounting processes.

Industry-Specific Cross-Border Expertise

Different industries face unique cross-border challenges. Automotive shipments require strict just-in-time delivery schedules and often utilize dedicated lanes through Windsor-Detroit. Food and beverage products need CFIA and FDA compliance with proper food safety documentation. Electronics and technology goods require secure handling and often benefit from bonded carrier services. Pharmaceuticals must meet strict regulatory requirements in both countries. Our industry-specific expertise ensures your freight receives appropriate handling, documentation, and routing regardless of sector.

Key Features

Complete customs brokerage services
USMCA certification assistance
Commercial invoice preparation
Duty and tax calculation
Real-time border crossing updates
Expedited clearance options

Benefits

Reduce border delays and clearance times
Minimize customs compliance risks
Access competitive cross-border rates
Expert guidance on trade regulations

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are required for cross-border freight?

Typically you need a commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and possibly certificates of origin. We guide you through all documentation requirements.

How long does customs clearance take?

With proper documentation, clearance typically takes 1-4 hours. We offer pre-clearance services to minimize border wait times.

Do you handle duties and taxes?

Yes, we calculate all applicable duties and taxes and can arrange payment on your behalf through our customs broker partners.