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Importing from Canada to US might seem like a straightforward task, given our close ties and extensive trade relationship. However, it's not always a walk in the park. The maze of U.S. customs regulations can trip up even seasoned importers. Before you attempt to import goods from Canada into the U.S., it’s important to know what hurdles to expect and where to look for guidance.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) still adheres to strict regulations for goods imported from Canada to the U.S. on any route. Goods must clear customs, and proper documentation is essential. Duties or tariffs may apply depending on the product. CBP compliance ensures smooth entry and avoids costly delays.
Are you curious about shipping goods from the great white north into the USA? Join us as we review the basics of importing from Canada, how to choose your commodities, and what fees you can expect to encounter.
Trade between Canada and the U.S. has been fruitful for decades, marking a relationship built on trust, quality, and mutual benefit.
There are numerous advantages to importing goods from our northern trading partner, such as:
With that being said, the rewards of successful importing hinge on your ability to navigate the often-complex process. This means clear, compliant importing practices are essential. Let's explore further.
Canada offers a smorgasbord of products that appeal to the American market. So many that in 2022, Canada exported over 450 billion dollars worth of commodities into the United States.
The lion’s share of that price tag belongs to the following goods.
| Commodity | Value in USD |
| Petroleum and mineral-based fuels | $163.53 billion |
| Non-tramway or railway vehicles | $45.67 billion |
| Nuclear reactors, boilers, and associated machinery | $29.57 billion |
Source: tradingeconomics.com
In addition to these highly sought-after goods, Canada also supplies the U.S. with almost any other commodity you can think of, including:
Basically, Canada’s available exports are vast and varied. If you’re an aspiring business owner in the U.S. importing from Canada, choosing what you want to bring into the states is a matter of researching customer demands and choosing merchandise with which you have experience.
Importing goods from Canada into the U.S. might seem daunting initially, but with a well-laid-out roadmap, you can navigate through the process confidently.
To help ensure a smooth import journey, start by following the import requirements listed below.
If you’re concerned about errors in the aforementioned process, working with a customs broker can save you a world of stress. Their expertise ensures you're always in compliance with changing regulations.
U.S. customs and regulations can be complex, even when your goods come from a relatively close supplier like Canada. Understanding these rules is crucial to ensure your imports get across the Canadian border without any problems.
The following list contains the standard regulations from CBP governing the import process.
A clear understanding of these regulations and close adherence to CBP guidelines will ensure your importing process remains hassle-free.
Don't let customs clearance hold you back. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the process of clearing your Canadian imports. Call us at (855) 912-0406 to discuss your needs and find the perfect solution.
Our 30 Minute Licensed Expert Consulting Will Personally Guide You.
HTS codes are used to determine the duties and taxes due on an import transaction. This can be expressed as a percentage of the overall cost of the products or a set value per weight. There is no flat percentage that can be used to easily calculate all import duties from Canada to U.S.
This is one of the most important reasons that we recommend working with an experienced broker during the import process. Brokers are experienced with the nuances of import taxes and can ensure that you don’t over or underpay at the border.
The term “duty limits” can show up as you research the import process. For those new to importing and unfamiliar with the term, it may seem to imply a maximum duty amount per transaction. This is not the case.
Duty limits on imports from Canada to the U.S. are only applicable to items intended for personal use, such as alcohol purchased at duty free shops. Generally, the limit is $800, at which point even personal use items will incur duties. Duty limits do not apply to importers intending to re-sell merchandise from Canada.
When importing goods from Canada to the U.S., it’s essential to understand the various fees associated with the process. Beyond the duties levied on certain goods, a range of other charges may apply, all of which can impact your overall cost.
Let's break down these fees to provide a clearer picture:
Being aware of these fees ensures that you aren’t caught off-guard by unexpected expenses. Proper budgeting and understanding of these charges will enable you to factor them into your product pricing, ensuring that you remain profitable and competitive in your market.
Strictly speaking, you don’t have to hire a customs broker to import shipments from Canada into the United States. You don’t have to hire a Sherpa to scale Mount Everest, either. However, expert guidance will give you a greater chance of success in either venture.
Customs brokers facilitate a smooth and problem-free import process by:
There are several other benefits of working with a customs broker. No matter what commodities you mean to bring into the country, a broker can be the difference between a seamless transaction and delays from CBP detention and inspection.
The possibilities of profit when importing from Canada are enticing, and with the right broker by your side, you can take advantage of these opportunities.
At USA Customs Clearance, we have years of experience with CBP as well as Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Our team of experts can ensure that your merchandise crosses the border without incurring fines and penalties resulting from inaccurate paperwork and filing.
Look to us for:
Call our knowledgeable team of customs brokers at (855) 912-0406 or contact us through the site today. We’re here to take the guesswork out of getting your shipment from Canada to the United States.
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i would be interested in hiring a broker to import some equipment i purchased at ritchie bros auction