Opening India to Canada shipping channels has created opportunities for small, medium, and large business owners to expand their international reach by sourcing and exporting products from India to Canada. India has been identified as a high-priority trading partner for Canada. Since 2010, India and Canada have launched negotiations towards finalizing the India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which would bring about large opportunities for both countries. International trade and Canadian business expansion comes with many benefits for businesses including:  

For cross-border trade, your business needs an efficient and reliable shipping partner in order to get your goods delivered safely into Canada. With the right end-to-end support for your shipping needs, your business could see results like a stronger reputation, winning customers with your last-mile logistics, and increased customer loyalty and brand affinity. 

Here’s how to get started with India to Canada shipping, including best practices, necessary documentation, how to reduce shipping rates and more.  

Key takeaways

India to Canada Business Expansion Checklist

Interested in shipping to Canada to expand your international growth? Before you start, consult the Canadian Government’s regulations to ensure you’re operating within international legal parameters and that your business is set up properly for tax purposes.

To check if your business is ready for export and positioned for optimal international success, refer to the The Canadian Government Trade Commissioner Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting.

Other resources to help you get started include:

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2022, $4.25B US worth of goods were exported from India to Canada.

Top 29 Common Canadian Shipping Terms To Know

Before you begin shipping to Canada, here is an overview of common terms that are important to know.

ACI – Advance Commercial Information: The release process that provides Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) officers with information about cargo before the imports’ arrival so they can identify potential health, safety, and security threats.

ACROSS – Accelerated Commercial Release Operating Support System: The CBSA’s automated customs clearance system for expediting commercial goods processing for imports into Canada.

AMPS – Administrative Monetary Penalty System: The CBSA system used to deter non-compliance that allows officers to issue financial penalties to clients that do not adhere to CBSA trade and border legislation.

CADEX – Customs Automated Data Exchange System

The Canadian customs system for transmitting import data electronically for released goods. This includes accounting documents, release notifications, file updates, releases, and more.

CBSA – Canada Border Services Agency

The Canadian federal law enforcement agency that is responsible for the regulation and control of border, trade, immigration enforcement and customs services.

CCEPS – Commercial Cash Entry Processing System

A self-serve automated system for individuals and small businesses importing commercial goods. CCEPS can be used at some CBSA offices to complete Form B3.

CCI/CI – Canada Customs Invoice or Commercial Invoice

An invoice that is submitted by the client to the CBSA for imports to classify the goods and determine the value of duty, tax and duty rate, and relevant tariffs.

CCN – Cargo Control Number

The barcode that the carrier or freight forwarder assigns that uniquely defines the transport document for the CBSA. It helps organize shipments and identifies the goods being transported.

CFIA – Canadian Food Inspection Agency

The agency responsible for the regulation of food, plants, and animals in Canada to ensure adherence to food safety, animal health, and plant health.

CSA – Customs Self Assessment

Allows importers, carriers, and low registered drivers that are low-risk and pre-approved by the CBSA access to faster and more efficient processing at the border.

DAS – Detailed Adjustment Statement

Generated document that outlines importer corrections to original customs entry. It’s also created when Customs begins any entry classification, valuation, or origin corrections as well as other adjustments.

DFATD – Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada

A Canadian governmental department for managing diplomatic relations, promoting international trade, and providing consular assistance. They are responsible for negotiating and administering trade agreements to aid and help facilitate the growth of Canadian companies in the international landscape. Their programs include:

  • Duty deferral program
  • Duties relief program
  • Drawback program

GAA – General Agency Agreement

A legal document required by the CBSA that permits a Customs Broker to act on behalf of the importer.

GPT – General Preferential Tariff

A tariff schedule that offers developing countries importing into Canada lower tariff rates, duty-free or preferential market access.

GST – Goods and Service Tax

Federal tax that is paid on most goods and services in Canada.

HST – Harmonized Sales Tax

Combines GST and the provincial sales tax (PST). It is used in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Ontario.

HVS – High Value Shipment

A shipment with a value at or above $2,500 CDN. For up-to-date information on recent updates, please see CBSA’s Registration, Accounting and Payment for Commercial Goods – Memorandum D17-1-5.

ICL – Import Control List

List of goods that have a designated import ban (cannot be imported), quota (restricted volume), or surveillance (monitored with license) in Canada.

LVS – Low Value Shipment

A shipment with a value at or under $2,500 CDN. For relevant updates, please see CBSA’s Registration, Accounting and Payment for Commercial Goods – Memorandum D17-1-5.

MFN – Most Favoured Nation

A preferred tariff rate placed on imports from other World Trade Organization (WTO) members. Exceptions are countries that belong to preferential trade agreements.

NCR – National Customs Ruling

A written statement that describes which customs legislation should apply to goods that are imported into Canada.

NDR – No Declaration Required

Goods that do not need an export declaration. These goods must be labeled as “No declaration required” or “No B13A required” before being transferred to your shipping logistics partner.

OGD(s) – Other Government Departments

Government agencies other than the CBSA that regulate imports and exports in Canada.

PARS – Pre-arrival Review System

A federal customs program that permits importers or customs brokers to submit release information about shipments to the CBSA for review and processing.

Learn all the essential phrases you need to know with this shipping and logistics glossary. Read the A-to-Z Terminology Handbook here.

RMD – Release on Minimum Documentation

Permits importers to get goods released early by presenting data for interim accounting. Occurs before full payment of duties and taxes, but for a designated period (5 business days).

SIMA – Special Import Measures Act

A protective legal measure for Canadian producers that have been or are being harmed through dumping or the subsidization of imported goods.

TRQ – Tariff Rate Quotas

A mechanism that places a limit on the number of specified goods that can be imported at a low or zero rate of duty.

VFD – Value for Duty

A base figure for calculating the duty attributed to your goods.

VFT – Value For Tax

The total amount of Value For Duty (VFD) and associated duties. Used to calculate GST/HST for your goods.

For additional information on specific definitions you may encounter during your shipping and customs clearance process, please see the CBSA Acronyms and Abbreviations page.

India to Canada Shipping – Roles and Responsibilities

Here are the roles and responsibilities of the key individuals involved in the India to Canada shipping supply chain:

Exporter

A person, company, or supplier that ships goods overseas and is responsible for relevant documentation.

Shipping Partner

The company that is responsible for handling the logistics of the shipment, including preparing a Cargo Control Document, level and speed of service, best practices for shipping, providing packaging, and other services. Your shipping partner will liaise with your customs broker or may provide customs clearance, release and brokerage services to ensure transfer of the Cargo Control Document.

Customs Broker

An individual responsible for acting on behalf of importers and exporters to ensure compliance with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and customs regulations. Their main responsibilities include:

  • Shipment clearance (preparing and sending customs releases documents and data)
  • Shipment accounting (calculation and payment of duties and taxes)
  • Shipment management (transportation, customs clearance, and local delivery)

Importer

An individual or company receiving goods that are being exported from another country. They are responsible for paying taxes and duties, which is a reflection of the accuracy of information and documentation from the exporter to the CBSA. Importers must retain records of shipment documentation for six years.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)

A federal government department responsible for ensuring compliance with tax, trade, and border regulations for all goods. Improper documentation or failure to adhere to these rules and regulations can affect the timeliness and speed of delivery of your goods into Canada. If you are non-compliant, you may face financial penalties via the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS).

Documents for India to Canada Shipping

Here are the necessary documents you’ll need to clear customs.

1.    Canadian Customs Invoice (CCI) or Customs Invoice

This specific invoice is required on:

  • All commercial shipments with a value of $2,500 CDN or more.
  • Goods that do not fall under the HTUSA Chapter 9810 – Importations of Religious, Educational, Scientific and Other Institutions classification
  • Shipments subject to duties and taxes

This form must be complete and accurate in order for your goods to clear customs. It can be filled in by the exporter, importer, or related parties. All of the information in the document must be provided by the exporter.

Some of the fields included in the Canadian Customs Invoice (CCI) are:

  • Vendor name and address
  • Date of direct shipment to Canada
  • Country of origin of goods
  • Transportation: Mode and place of direct shipment to Canada
  • Quantity
  • Total Price (paid or payable in currency of settlement for quantity of goods)
  • Total weight
  • Exporter’s name and address
  • Import license

For more information, see the CBSA’s CI1 – Canada Customs Invoice page.

2.    Bill of Lading (BOL)

A legal document that is an agreement between a shipper and the shipping logistics company. It is issued by the exporter and specifies and summarizes terms and conditions of the goods being shipped, the quantity as well as its destination. It must be signed by both the shipper and the shipping logistics company. A copy is given to the importer while a third is retained in the shipping logistics company’s records.

3.    Manifest or Cargo Control Document

A document that lists the contents of the shipment. The manifest is created by the carrier and includes information related to your shipment such as:

  • Brokers transaction number
  • Shipping address
  • Delivery address
  • Customs clearance locations
  • Weight of shipment

One copy is for CBSA reporting, while the other is sent to confirm your goods’ arrival. Each Cargo Control Document has a unique Cargo Control Number that allows the CBSA to monitor the shipment for proper clearance and closure of shipment. Highway Form A8A is the most frequently used manifest document.

Special circumstance documents include:

  1. Packing List – A summary that includes detailed information about the goods in your shipment, its quantity and destination.
  2. Import Permits – Any additional documentation that may be required for goods that belong to certain categories under the Canadian Other Government Department (OGD)’s regulations for food, drugs, textiles, and more.

You can send your documents to customs via:

  • Manual document delivery – Complete documents manually and print off necessary copies to retain in records.
  • Electronic document delivery – Electronic alternative offered by customs brokers to deliver and store documentation.

Here is a summary of the documents you’ll generally need for customs clearance.

  • PARS Notification cover sheet – Issued by Exporter/Shipping Logistics Partner
  • Canada Customs Invoice – Issued by Exporter/Vendor
  • e-Manifest or Cargo Control Document – Issued by Carrier
  • Bill of Lading – Issued by Exporter/Carrier
  • Other Government Departments (OGD) Documents, where applicable – Issued by Importer/Broker
  • Certificates of Origin, where applicable – Issued by Exporter/Vendor
  • Shipper’s Export Declaration, where applicable – Issued by Exporter/Vendor

To complete these documents, be sure you have the following information:

  1. Canadian customs broker name, phone, and fax
  2. Consignee name and address OR Importer of Record and address
  3. Date of direct shipment
  4. Specification of commodities/description of goods
  5. Conditions of sale/terms of payment/currency
  6. Selling price
  7. Declared value
  8. Freight charges/insurance
  9. Classification Number (10 digit)
  10. Restricted merchandise permits and licenses, where applicable

Please note that your specific shipment may have exceptions or additional documentation needed beyond the paperwork listed here. Always be sure to check in with CBSA requirements and your shipping logistics partner.

How Much is India to Canada Shipping?

Whether you’re sending a 1kg, 7kg or 10 kg shipment, there are several factors influencing how much India to Canada shipping will be:

Factors contributing to shipping costs from India to Canada

  1. Item height and weight: Your shipment will have certain height and weight restrictions as defined by your specific shipping partner. Your shipment’s dimensional weight (the amount of space the package takes up in addition to the actual item weight) will also be taken into consideration. If it is oversized or oddly-shaped, you may need to receive approval to ship at an additional amount.
  2. Shipping distance: The geographical zone your package is shipping to will influence your shipping investment. For example, international cargo shipping from India to Canada’s remote areas will determine your type of service and how much shipping will be. As well, so does the distance between zones. Any shipping within Canada once your shipment crosses the border will be the most affordable.
  1. Time of delivery: Your shipping requirement date, whether you choose the fastest shipping from India to Canada, and other business services can all influence your shipping financing. As well, if your shipment requires time specificity and accuracy, such as overnight or same-day, it will factor into how much you will pay for shipping.
  1. Mode of transportation: The type of transport you select, which is dependent on your desired transit time, will determine your shipping investment. For example, air transport is faster but more expensive. Other slower options with high inventory carrying fees can add to your overall expenditure.
  1. Customs and tariffs: The amount your shipping will be depends on the type of item and its value, and will also determine the applicable duties associated with your shipment.
  1. Special handling: Special handling services for any oversized, non-packaged items that require manual handling and extra care and time will come with a surcharge. As well, dangerous goods are subject to government regulations that will also impact how much shipping will be. For the most up up-to-date information on whether your package requires special handling, contact your shipping partner for an accurate rate of shipping.
  1. Seasonal/Peak Season Demand: During peak times, you will see an impact on your shipping rate, since a spike in volume and demand directly influences your freight rates and capacity limits, and cumulatively inflates costs.

How often your business ships into Canada (such as on a monthly, weekly, or daily basis) will influence your shipping rate, and may give you access to competitive shipping discounts via your shipping partner. Often the more you ship and with varied services such as dangerous goods (DG), special handling services (SHS), courier, freight, etc., your shipping partner is more likely to give you better shipping rates.

Ultimately, look for a shipping partner that can keep your shipment in their network to reduce handoffs, time, risk of damage, and more, as well as the right expertise that streamlines your shipping, so your rate of shipping is optimized for your needs. For example, we offer services such as:

For example, when you partner with Purolator we take your individual business’s needs and objectives into consideration to determine an optimal route and quote for your shipment. To help support your shipping needs, we have developed several tools and resources to take the guesswork and the time spent out of search for tariff codes and proper documentation for cross-border shipments. These tools and resources include:

Ways to Lower Your Shipping Costs to India

Here are the best ways to send a parcel to Canada without inflating your shipping rate:

Ways to lower your shipping costs from India to Canada

  1. Use the right packaging: Opt for using standardized packaging from your shipping partner. It’s usually cheaper and has less associated fees in comparison to non-standardized packaging. You may be able to access packaging discounts, such as pre-paid shipping labels, as an added benefit based on your shipping history. For example, if your business spends X amount on a regular basis, your shipping rate will be lower.TIP: Using the right packaging also impacts customer loyalty and brand affinity, which boosts your revenue. According to studies, 60-80% of consumers will not buy again from a brand that has poor packaging.
  1. Reduce the weight of your package: Minimizing the overall weight translates to shipping savings. Use lightweight materials such as corrugated boxes and compact packaging.
  1. Pack for protection: Reduce the risk of damages to your shipments during transit by using these essential tips for ensuring maximum protection:
  • Fill your box with protective material that cushions
  • Tape seams using the H-taping method for individually shipped items
  • Use durable outer packaging materials such as wood, metal and are properly bound with metal, wood or cloth strapping for crated shipments
  • Reduce your package weight where possible
  • Reduce the amount of “air” within your package to reduce the risk of damageTIP: Proper packaging also decreases your business’s carbon footprint. Here are 3 eco-friendly packaging best practices to make your business more sustainable.
  1. Reduce air space: Allow for a maximum of 2-3 inches of space allowance around your package for optimal cushioning. Use made-to-fit packaging, which will have a direct impact on your bottom line. Benefits also include:
  • Improved volumetric efficiency, which reduces dead space
  • Eliminates need for unnecessary boxes
  • Eliminates excessive packing materials to fill space around your shipment
  • Significantly lowers risk of product damage
  1. Use order consolidation: Reduce your shipping rate by sending multiple individual items within a single shipment or through freight consolidation. Not only does it minimize package waste, but it also ensures all parts of the shipment get to their end destination.
  1. Understand the associated customs, duties, and fees: A shipping partner with expertise on how to ship internationally will be able to give you insight and guidance on clearing customs effectively as well as a comprehensive overview of the duties and fees associated. For more information, refer to the Canadian Border Services Agency’s Guide to Importing Commercial Goods into Canada.
  1. Use ground shipping: Depending on your order fulfillment process, you may want to prioritize ground shipping within Canada. While ground shipping is slower, it brings valuable savings for both your business and your customers. It can also increase your business’s sustainability through eco-friendly modes of transport such as e-bikes, parcel lockers, LEV vehicles, and more.TIP: Here’s how to choose the right shipping order fulfilment partner, so you can be sure you’re optimizing your shipment process while minimizing your shipping rate.
  1. Take advantage of business associations: If you’re a member of a professional or trade business association, you may receive discounts on shipping as a member benefit.
  1. Pre-plan for peak and off-peak season: Plan in advance to avoid increased carrier rates, labor costs, and reduced shipping capacity, whether you are shipping during peak or off-peak season. Take advantage of lower shipping rates by sending your shipments with a hassle-free, reliable shipping provider that can navigate increased demand during peak seasons, and deliver trusted support and expertise no matter the time of year.

Looking for tips on preparing for peak shipping? Here are the top 5 must know tips for shipping freight.
 

  1. Use a reliable shipping partner with trusted international expertise: To get an accurate idea of your shipping rate with no hidden costs, as well as comprehensive, accurate calculations for shipping that covers customs, duties and more, choose a shipping partner with international expertise, such as Purolator. This guarantees that regardless of shipping volume or shipping frequency, you’re getting access to exclusive savings that optimize your shipping logistics and deliver return on your investment. Add ease and comfort to your shipping needs with a trusted provider that’s recognized as a leader in Canada’s domestic premium parcel market.

Calculating India to Canada Shipping Time

Factors affecting shipping time from India to Canada

  • Shipment volumes. The volume of shipments your business is sending, as well as volume from other businesses, depends on the time of year.
  • Seasonality. Your business may want to use seasonal forecasting and global logistics supply chain trends to determine impact on shipping time.
  • Inspections. Inspection or reinspection of your products will add time to your shipping. Familiarize yourself with CBSA protocols and guidelines associated with your specific products.
  • Document verification and accuracy of documentation. Incorrect documentation will delay your shipment and increase time of shipping.
  • Customs delays. Fully understanding the customs clearance process means avoiding unexpected and unnecessary delays.
  • Shipping route/distance traveled. The further your package’s end destination, as well as how remote the route may be will also factor into timing.
  • Urgency of package. You may prefer to send your shipment via international priority shipping, which will streamline how fast your package gets to its end destination.
  • Shipping method. Depending on whether you choose sea, freight, or other shipping methods, your shipment time will vary. Learn more about how to optimize your freight shipping strategy here.

Your shipment method will also play a large role. You may send your package via:

  • Freight. The most popular method within North America, with less service in more rural areas. Learn more about leveraging TL and LTL shipping in your freight strategy.
  • Rail. Most commonly used when shipping to and from sea ports.
  • Air. A more expensive but quicker option. Insurance is usually lower and warehousing is affordable. With air, your business has more control over its inventory and further-reaching market access.
  • Sea. Ocean freight is optimal for shipments that do not require speedy delivery such as large items, bulk commodities, and goods shipping to offshore markets.

How to Ship from India to Canada

India to Canada export

Cost Savings, Efficiency are Top Benefits of a Cross-Border Logistics Consolidation Strategy - Check out this whitepaper

Before you begin, familiarize yourself with target market trade regulations, product standards, and license requirements, including trade and international security. You may want to refer to the World Customs Organization’s SAFE Framework for protection against international supply chain terrorist exploitation. For a full overview, refer to The Canadian Government Trade Commissioner’s Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting.

Ready to start sending goods to Canada? Here are the key steps for shipping and exporting from India to Canada.

(1) Register as a Non-Resident Importer (NRI)

A Non-Resident Importer (NRI) is any business that exists outside of Canada that is shipping goods to Canadians. The NRI acts as an Importer of Record (IOR) for goods imported into Canada.

Having NRI status means that your business is able to compete in the Canadian market without investment in Canadian capital. Benefits include:

  • Consistent access to documentation in customs clearance processing
  • Potentially quicker time of delivery
  • Predetermined landed costs
  • More efficient import process
  • Reduced supply change costs
  • Reduced involvement of carriers and brokers
  • Management of associated costs such as brokerage, freight, and duty

(2) Register with CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM)

The CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) portal aims to streamline and digitize the importation process. If you are a new importer to Canada, you must register for CARM before May 2024. This tool allows importers to get access to border services 24/7 and allows your company to:

  • Classify goods with online tools
  • Calculate duties and taxes
  • Submit e-declarations
  • Make e-payments and view timely account information
  • Go paperless
  • Streamline NRI and CBSA interactions
  • Access more consistent application of trade rules and decisions
  • Avoid redundant and unnecessary information requirements

(3) Obtain your business number

  • The first step to registering as an NRI is to obtain your business number from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). As a Non-Resident Importer (NRI), you will need one for an import/export account and for the CBSA to interact with you and streamline your business.

(4) Familiarize yourself with your exporter responsibilities

  • As a company that is non-resident importer (NRI), you are acting as an Importer of Record (IOR) for the goods you are shipping into Canada, which means you’re responsible for all documentation, records, and accounting related to your shipment
  • Make sure you provide the required documentation within the designated time frame for your goods.
  • While NRI responsibilities differ depending on the goods being imported and any affiliated special permits, NRI must be aware of their:
    • Business Number
    • Valuation
    • HS Tariff Classification
    • Tariff Treatment
    • Goods and Services Tax (GST) on imports
    • Canadian Customs Clearance
    • Maintenance of Records
    • Compliance

(5) Review documentation to ensure accuracy

  • You may choose to use a customs service provider but remember you are responsible for accuracy and completion of information, otherwise you will have to pay penalties or be subject to goods being detained or seized. Make sure to double check your documents and review them for errors. Any mistakes can impact your shipping negatively.
  • For more information, see Memorandum D20-1-1: Exporter reporting.

(6) Complete proper valuation of your shipment

Valuation of goods is necessary for proper clearance without delays, and to avoid rejections or seizure by customs or any additional financial penalties from the CBSA. Valuation of goods is typically done through transactional valuation, which means that the price that the purchaser pays for the goods dictates the value of the goods, regardless of the vendor’s cost of purchase.

(7) Identify your goods

  • Based on your goods classification you may require a special license, permit, or certificate for export. Here is a list of goods that may require export permits.
  • For the most accurate information, you may want to refer to your consulate or embassy.

(8) Submit your export declaration

(9) Classify your goods

  • Identify the correct tariff classification number or appropriate export Harmonized Description and Coding System classification number/HS Code (10-digit code) for your shipment as well as any applicable duties.
  • Where applicable, include correct documentation and ensure any origin of goods requirements for your Preferential Tariff Treatment. Some examples of preferential tariff treatments include:
    • Most Favoured Nation
    • General Preferential Tariff
    • Least Developed Country Tariff
    • North American Free Trade Agreement
  • Consult your customs provider to determine eligibility for the CBSA’s duty drawback program, which lets companies recover any duties paid on specific imports.
  • Identify if GST, excise tax or duty needs to be paid on your goods.
  • Determine your goods’ value for duty.

(10) Determine if you want to use a freight forwarder or a customs broker

A freight forwarder or customs broker can help you with documentation, logistical requirements, and more.

TIP: Purolator’s partners and associated shipping solutions include complete end to end services that include freight forwarding and customs brokerage. Services also include:

  • Flexible transport options
  • Specialized services
  • Convenient delivery solutions via Amazon and other warehouse distribution centres
  • Streamlined clearance programs for B2B and B2C e-commerce

Add ease to your shipping and get access to tailored shipping solutions from strategic partners and channel partners such as:

  • APG eCommerce Solutions
  • UBI Smart Parcel
  • Flightgo
  • Inext Logistics
  • DTDC
  • And more

Learn more about Purolator’s global shipping and channel partners here.

(11) Choose your shipping method

  • Choose your shipping partner and determine the best shipping method: truck, rail, air or sea.

(12) Package your goods

  • Review the packing guidelines for your specific shipment. Determine if the package is:
    • Non-fragile
    • Fragile
    • Pallets
  • Make sure your shipment can survive rough handling, inclement weather conditions and extreme temperatures. Your shipment method will also determine your type of packaging.
  • Rely on the expertise of your international shipping partner to get the most reliable information on optimizing your packing.

(13) Properly label your goods

Verify the regulations for your destination to ensure compliance.

(14) Schedule shipment pickup

  • When your shipping partner picks up your shipment, a cargo control number or CCN will be assigned to the goods and attached to your paperwork. Your CCN is used to clear customs and for easy tracking through the customs clearance process.

(15) Send documentation to customs broker

  • Typically, your shipping partner will take on faxing documentation to your customs broker. Your paperwork will then be reviewed by your customs broker and you will be notified of any errors or changes that need to be made. Your customs broker will then submit the paperwork to the CBSA.

(16) Provide proof of report number to carrier

Your proof of report number is issued via your export declaration method (CERS or G7-EDI). For more information see Memorandum D20-1-1: Exporter reporting.

(17) Present permits at the specified place

  • If your goods need an export permit, certificate or license, then you will have to present your export declaration and necessary permit, certificate, or license at the specified location.
  • If you have not been given a precise location, present these documents at your designated export reporting office.

(18) Prepare to have your goods released

9 Key Steps for Customs Clearance for Courier Low-Value Shipments

Through the courier Low-Value Shipment (LVS) courier program, imports that are valued at less than $2,500 get access to a streamlined clearance process for expedited release through the border. Please note that if your goods are subject to Other Government Department (OGD) regulations, they are not eligible for the LVS program.

Here are the 9 key steps for customs clearance for low-value shipments:

  1. Submit the required shipping and customs documentation to your shipping partner
  2. Your shipping partner will sort shipments received from all importers into two categories:
    • Low Value Shipments
    • High Value Shipments
    Your goods will be in a Consist List that specifies it is a Low Value Shipment and this release document will be presented to the CBSA at the port of entry.
  3. Copies of the Consist List will be given to the CBSA.
  4. CBSA evaluates goods for release or further examination.
  5. Any goods that required additional inspection will be given to the CBSA by your shipping partner
  6. Approved goods will be shipped to its final destination via your shipping partner.
  7. While your shipment is enroute, the consist list and other documentation will be received by your customs broker.
  8. Your customs broker will review your documentation to ensure there are no errors or missing information.
  9. Your customs broker will notify you (the importer) or the exporter of any required amendments to documentation.
DID YOU KNOW?

A total of $418 million worth of pharmaceutical products were the primary export for India to Canada in 2022, followed by $328 million in iron and steel, and $287 million in machinery, nuclear reactors and boilers.

Routing a Package: From the Canadian Border to Shipping Across Canada

  1. Your shipping partner will determine the best routing for your package based on your business profile and your business needs.
  2. Your shipping partner will ensure your packages are fully compliant to streamline and reduce processing time at the Canadian border. You may also want to refer to the CBSA’s Border Wait Times page.
  3. Once your package is with your shipping partner, wait for notification that it’s arrived at the border.
  4. Your package will be examined by the CBSA. If you’ve opted for a customs broker, they will:
    • Complete accounting for your shipment and pay any associated fees and duties.
    • Correct any errors in documentation.
  5. Once the accounting entry is complete (also known as a B3), the entry will be sent to the CBSA by your broker within 1 hour. Your broker will also send any additional documents like import permits.
  6. Once your shipment receives clearance, it will now enter Canada’s shipping network.
  7. Depending on the service selected and type of shipping method, your business will receive updates accordingly as your shipment reaches each milestone in its delivery to its final destination.

How to Choose the Right India to Canada Shipping Partner – 6 Questions to Ask

To identify if a shipping partner is right for you, here are some questions to ask to get an understanding of their expertise, capabilities and network.

  1. From the start to end of the shipping process, how familiar are your employees with CBSA regulations and requirements as well as Transportation of Goods regulations?
  2. What support and tools do you provide customers for documentation for international shipments?
  3. How familiar are you with proper customs clearance documentation?
  4. Do you offer customs clearance and brokerage services?
  5. What international, strategic partners do you work with (if any)? How do they elevate your services?
  6. Does your team utilize CBSA’s Pre Arrival Review System (PARS) to reduce wait time?
  7. What is your record with the CBSA? Is it in good standing?
  8. Do you have drivers that are registered with the CBSA’s Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program?

Ultimately, you want to feel secure and confident in your shipping partner after asking these questions. The right shipping logistics partner will have the expertise, services and support for seamless India to Canada shipping, including added assurance that your documentation adheres to CBSA requirements and regulations and your shipments will clear customs quickly and efficiently.

Popular Product Categories For Import to Canada

According to the Consulate General of India, the top exports shipped from India to Canada include:

  1. Food Products
  2. Leather, Fur Products
  3. Dress Accessories
  4. Specialized Instruments
  5. Fats, Oils & Waxes Products
  6. Paper Products
  7. Animal Products
  8. Mineral Products
  9. Arms & Ammunition
  10. Glass & Stone Products
  11. Wood Products
  12. Antiques

Restricted and Prohibited Items

There are certain goods that are restricted and prohibited in Canada. Before shipping your items, make sure they do not fall in these categories. For more information, refer to Purolator’s guide to Canadian shipping restrictions.

Expand Your Business Overseas With India to Canada Shipping and Purolator’s Expertise

Growing your business overseas can be a complicated and involved process. Add ease to your business expansion with a reliable provider in Canada shipping with trusted overseas expertise. Purolator’s worldwide reach extends to metropolitan cities in India such as Delhi, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and more. Using Purolator for your international shipping logistics gives your business access to Purolator’s Shipping Channel Partner Network, where top shipping services have partnered with Purolator’s end-to-end shipping support and logistics.

Purolator is a leading provider of integrated freight, package and logistics solutions for businesses of all types and sizes,  delivering over 60 years of intra-Canada shipping expertise including:

  • End to end tracking. Get information on your shipment, every step of the way.
  • Cross border shipping from India to Canada. Access logistics support that delivers a seamless international shipping experience with expert services and an extensive network and reach, and Purolator’s Business Rewards Program that delivers savings on every shipment.
  • Courier and freight service. No matter your package type, get your goods delivered via optimized routing and shipping methods.
  • Specialized services. Streamline your shipping with logistical support that understands your unique business needs. Get access to specialized services such as:
    • Special handling
    • Dangerous goods
    • Mission critical
  • Reverse logistics. Add value to your business while boosting your sustainability with logistical support for product returns, refurbishment, recycling, and more.
  • Trusted, confidential shipping. The best way to send important documents internationally from India is with the Purolator Shipping Channel Partner Network, which gives you access to links with Indian Government services. Learn more about how to pick up and drop off Indian passports and police clearance certificates (PCC) in Canada here.
  • Extensive Canada-wide service. Purolator services 99.9% of Canadian postal codes using 97% of its own assets and has the largest number of operational terminals within Canada. This reduces loss or damage, accelerates delivery and enhances the last mile of your delivery services, impacting your bottom line.
  • Wide-reaching network. Get access to importing services for locations like the United States, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam), New Delhi (India), London (the U.K), Amsterdam (the Netherlands), Warsaw (Poland, Ukraine), Sydney(Australia)
  • Sustainable shipping solutions. Purolator’s commitment to sustainability lets your business unlock increased sustainability at every point of the shipping process, including eco-friendly transport and solutions such as e-bikes, parcel lockers, LEV vehicles, and more.
  • Purolator National Hub – Purolator’s world-class facility delivers innovation, efficiency and sustainable solutions to your business with ease. With close access to four major highways, Purolator’s National Hub is designed to grow with your business and allows you to leverage Purolator’s technologies, networks, and capacity scalable to your unique needs.purolator national hub arial view
  • Exclusive discounts. Get access to Purolator discounts for receiving your products from India and logistical services thereafter.

Speak to us for customized solutions that meet your business’s needs and support your growth. Learn more about India-to-Canada shipping with Purolator.

Your Reliable Logistics Partner for India to Canada Shipping

Trusted by businesses worldwide with over 60 years of service, Purolator understands your unique needs and provides optimized overseas shipping solutions catered to your business and its customers. With Purolator’s specialized services, you can better accomplish your business goals, exceed customer expectations and grow your business with ease.

Leverage international shipping expertise in cross-border customs clearance, as well as reliable shipping support and service that delivers to 99.9% of all Canadian postal codes. Purolator is here to accelerate your business expansion into Canada. Recognized as the leading integrated freight, package and logistics provider with the most extensive delivery network in Canada, there is no better choice than Purolator for your India-to-Canada shipping needs.

Streamline your shipping logistics and grow your business with Purolator’s overseas expertise.
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