Moving freight between Canada and the USA can be a simple process if everything is done right. Here is what you will need:

1. Proper wrapping - Make sure that your freight is either crated or shrink wrapped on a pallet. This method will allow you to ship the most economical way because you will avoid any special handling charges or possible damages.

2. Dimensions and weight - Make sure your freight sits inside the perimeter of the pallet it's on (i.e. 48"x 40" x 48" or 48" x 48" x 48"). Try to keep the weight of each piece to a maximum of 1600 lbs or less. Among many other things this will ensure handling of your freight can be done with a simple pallet jack in case where you are shipping to does not have a forklift. The costs of handling standard sizes and weights always keeps shipping costs down for both us and you.

3. Customs Broker - When shipping freight across the border you will need to have an account with a customs brokerage company. This is a company that will be responsible for determining the taxes and customs duties that you will have to pay to either the U.S. or Canadian government for bringing products into that country. You will need to supply the trucking company taking your freight across the border with the name of the customs broker you are setup with. You will also need to supply the trucking company with the necessary paperwork usually a commercial invoice detailing:

A clear description of the goods that can be understood by anyone. If you are shipping cabinets make sure your commercial invoice says cabinets not just model numbers or part numbers.

Where the product is made. This will play a big role in determining what kinds of duties (if any) will apply. Some countries have free trade agreements and are exempt from duties.

A tax number (e.g. IRS number for product going in to the USA)

Cross border shipments types:

USA - PAPS Types of shipments for comercial goods going to the USA. This a standard business to business shipment that a customs broker will be needed to process trade free documentation or any taxes and duties required.

CAN - PARS Types of shipments for comercial goods coming to Canada. This a standard business to business shipment that a customs broker will be needed to process trade free documentation or any taxes and duties required.

U-C - BONDED For freight not staying in the country they are being shipped to or a shipment that will be customs cleared at a later date. There are also other reasons that bonded shipments are requested.

CT-PAT or CSA Freight that can require a C-TPAT or CSA certified border crossing carrier. If your freight is classified as dangerous goods or hazmat (hazardous material) you will need to make sure you have documents detailing all hazmat information. Rest assured all our trucks and trailers are equipped with placard holders to meet the safety requirements for your Hazardous Materials Transport and we can handle all types of border crossings and special requirements including protection from freezing in the winter, lift-gate/tailgate delivery, residential service and dry food transport service (FDA).