How to Successfully Ship Furniture from Canada to the USA

Cross-border furniture shipping is a smart move for customers and retailers wanting to get those prized decorative items or furniture. Whether it’s that perfect piece for a home or a business space, shipping from Canada to the US doesn’t have to be a headache. It could seem daunting, but with the right approach and some preparation, it can actually be a straightforward experience.

Whether you’re relocating, buying new furniture, or sending items for your business, knowing the rules, shipping choices, and costs is crucial for a smooth process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about shipping furniture from Canada to the US.

How to Prepare Furniture for Shipment

1. Secure Packaging
   Remember, using an oversized box can increase your shipping costs, as prices are often determined by both size and weight. But a box that’s too small won’t give you enough room for proper cushioning and padding. So, it’s important to measure the length, width, and height of the furniture while also adding a few inches for clearance. Packing peanuts are used to secure furniture and avoid movement.
2. Furniture Disassembly
   If a furniture has detachable parts, you can wrap the parts separately to avoid damage risk. For items like kitchen cabinets, couches, patio furniture, and coffee tables, make sure to pay special attention to the edges and corners and consider using extra foam padding in those spots.
3. Labeling & Documentation
   Include destination, return addresses, and an itemized list for customs.
4. Size & Weight Restrictions
   Check shipping regulations before sending. This will help you choose what type of shipping service is best suited for you.
5. Shipping Insurance
   Protect items with coverage for full value against loss or damage.

How to Ship Furniture Internationally

Now that packing has been secured, the next step is to know how to ship them to your desired location. First, know what shipping method suits your needs. To ship furniture from the US to Canada, you can opt between sea or air freight.

• Air freight is best for faster transport but is less cost effective
• Sea Freight takes longer but is a lot cheaper and is suited for large-volume shipments. 

For large pieces of furniture, freight shipping is often the cheapest option, but it requires more planning. LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight shipping is best for shipments that weigh between 150 and 15,000 pounds.

Clearing Customs Process

Shipping home decor and furniture from the USA to Canada requires an understanding of the customs process. HS Codes (Harmonized System Codes) are used to sort different types of goods. This sorting is important for calculating customs duties and any taxes that may apply. In the US, a 10-digit number is necessary for HS Codes to properly categorize items entering or leaving the country.

Remember, good documentation is key to staying compliant and avoiding any delays. Errors can result in penalties, so you must pay close attention to the details.  Required documents include:

• The Bill of Lading
• Packing List
• Customs Declaration Form
• The Certificate of Origin

For accurate and complete documentation, it’s wise to consult a customs broker or collaborate with a shipping company that is customs broker inclusive. A skilled broker can facilitate quicker movement of goods through ports, enhancing logistics and overall management efficiency.

Plus, when you hire a moving company to handle your items, they’ll assist you in getting your shipment through Canadian customs. After that, you’ll need to settle any duties and taxes to have your shipment released.

Understanding Import Duties, Tariffs, and Import Taxes

People are often confused with duties, tariffs, and import taxes, but they have different meanings. Import duties are specific taxes on imported goods, calculated based on the product type, value, and where it was made. Tariffs are a type of duty used to control trade between countries, usually charged as a percentage of the item’s value. Import taxes, on the other hand, cover all costs related to bringing goods into a country, including duties, tariffs, and other charges like sales tax or VAT.

All items shipped to Canada are inspected by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to ensure they meet the country’s import rules. When sending furniture or other goods, you must declare what you’re shipping and may need to pay fees based on the item’s value, type, and origin.

FAQ

Can I Buy Furniture from the USA and Ship It to Canada?

Yes, you can buy furniture from the US and ship it to Canada. Many Canadians choose to buy furniture from the US due to the wider selection, lower prices, or unique items that aren’t available locally.

What is the Best Way to Ship Furniture Internationally?

There are several shipping options depending on the size of the furniture, delivery speed, and your budget. The best choice is freight shipping, LTL (Less Than Truckload) or FTL (Full Truckload).

How Much Does It Cost to Ship Furniture from the Canada to US?

Shipping costs vary widely based on factors like size, weight, and shipping method. It’s best to consult US to Canada freight forwarders to do the job.

Do You Have to Pay Customs to Ship from the US to Canada?

Yes, customs duties are generally required when shipping furniture to Canada. All goods entering Canada must be declared to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

How to Calculate Estimated Import Taxes

Use online tools or consult with a customs broker to estimate duties and taxes. A customs broker can also help with the required documentation to avoid delays. 

How Long Does It Take to Ship Furniture from the Canada to US?

Transit times depend on the shipping method and customs clearance. On average, standard shipping takes 5 to 10 days. Freight Shipping can take up to 2-4 weeks, depending on customs and delivery speed.

Ship with Elite Anywhere Today

At Elite Anywhere, we totally recognize the challenges of navigating the global supply chain. As an expert player in white glove delivery solutions, we’re the go-to for businesses and individuals looking to ship furniture from the US to Canada.

We excel in customs clearance and freight forwarding. Get your process running smoothly today and explore new possibilities that will help you achieve your goals!