Shipping from China to the Canada
Table of Contents
In 2024, Canada imported about US$87 billion in goods from China, including Electronics, Machinery, Clothing, Furniture, and Household appliances. If you are getting ready to ship goods from China to Canada for the first time, the process can feel overwhelming. To help, we have put together this simple guide to walk you through each step. You will find practical shipping tips, information about Canada’s customs clearance, and advice on getting the best freight quotes.
Canada Import Duties and Taxes in 2025
- Duties: Canadian Duties rates range from 0% to 35%, with an average rate of 8.56%. Certain goods are exempt from tariffs, such as specified electronic products, antiques, toys, etc.
- Preferential Tariffs: To qualify for preferential tariffs, imported goods must meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant agreement. Preferential tariffs apply only when the import value exceeds CAD 1,600.
- Sales Tax (GST): Most imported goods are subject to GST at a rate of 5%. GST is levied on the dutiable value of the shipment (e.g., 5% GST × [goods value + duties paid]).
- Threshold: All Canadian duties and taxes have thresholds. Goods with an FOB value not exceeding CAD 20 are exempt from customs duties, GST, or provincial sales tax/harmonised sales tax.
- Other: Excise duties apply to tobacco and alcoholic products. These may be assessed ad valorem (based on FOB value) or specific (based on alcohol content).
There are two main types of sales taxes in Canada
1. Federal sales tax: This is called the Goods and Services Tax (GST) or the Harmonised Sales Tax (HST). The type used depends on the province or territory.
2. Provincial sales tax: This is called the Provincial Sales Tax (PST), Quebec Sales Tax (QST), or Retail Sales Tax (RST), depending on the province. Some provinces do not have a provincial sales tax. The type of tax used depends on the province.
| Sales Tax Type | Province / Region |
|---|---|
| GST Only | Alberta (5% GST) Saskatchewan (5% GST) Northwest Territories (5% GST) Yukon (5% GST) |
| GST + PST / RST / QST | British Columbia (5% GST + 7% PST) Manitoba (5% GST + 7% RST) Quebec (5% GST + 9.975% QST) Saskatchewan (5% GST + 6% PST) |
| HST Only | Ontario (13%) New Brunswick (15%) Nova Scotia (15%) Newfoundland and Labrador (15%) Prince Edward Island (15%) |
Different Shipping services from China to Canada
Ocean Freight from China to Canada
Sea freight is the most popular way to ship goods from China to Canada because it offers great value and can handle large shipments. You can book a full container or share space, depending on your needs. Major ports such as Shanghai, Ningbo, and Shenzhen connect directly to Canadian cities like Vancouver, Prince Rupert, Montreal, and Halifax. Shipping usually takes 15-37 days.
Air Freight from China to Canada
Air freight is often chosen for urgent or high-value shipments because it is faster and more secure than sea transport. Although it usually costs more, air freight provides direct routes between major Chinese cities, such as Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Xiamen, and Canadian cities such as Vancouver, Toronto and Montréal. Shipments between China and Canada by air typically take 3 to 8 days.
Shipping Times from China to Canada
| Shipping Mode | Starting point | Destination | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Freight (LCL and FCL) | Shanghai | Toronto | 14-28 days |
| Air Freight | Shanghai | Toronto | 5-10 days |
| Express Shipping | Shanghai | Toronto | 3-5 days |
Please note that these are estimated times, and the actual transit time may be affected by various factors, such as weather, port congestion, customs inspections, peak seasons, etc.
Shipping costs from China to Canada
| Shipping Mode | Starting point | Destination | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air Freight (1000+ kgs) | Shanghai | Toronto | $9-11/kg |
| LCL | Shanghai | Toronto | $2-3/kg |
| FCL(20ft-40ft) | Shanghai | Toronto | $2700-3,450 |
Cost of shipping 20ft & 40ft container from china to Canada
| POL (Port of Loading) | POD (Port of Discharge) | CNTR Size | port to port price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai | Toronto | 20FT/HQ | $2,700 |
| Shanghai | Toronto | 40FT/HQ | $3,450 |
| Shanghai | Prince Rupert | 20FT/HQ | $1,250 |
| Shanghai | Prince Rupert | 40FT/HQ | $1,550 |
| Shanghai | Montreal | 20FT/HQ | $2,650 |
| Shanghai | Montreal | 40FT/HQ | $3,250 |
Shipping cost trends from China to Canada in 2025:
Container Types for Sea Freight Shipping from China to Canada
The most common standard dry container types include:
- 20-foot standard container (20′ GP): has an internal capacity of about 28-30 cubic meters.
- 40-foot standard container (40′ GP): has an internal capacity of about 58-60 cubic meters.
- 40-foot high cube (40′ HQ): About 1 foot taller than the 40′ GP, this cube has an internal capacity of about 68-70 cubic meters and is suitable for bulky but lightweight goods.
| Container Type | External Dimensions (L×W×H) | Internal Dimensions (L×W×H) | Volume | Max Payload | Tare Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20GP | 6.06 m × 2.44 m × 2.59 m | 5.90 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 28-30 m³ | 24,000 kg | 2,300 kg |
| 40GP | 12.19 m × 2.44 m × 2.59 m | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.39 m | 58-60m³ | 30,480 kg | 3,700 kg |
| 40HQ | 12.19 m × 2.44 m × 2.89 m | 12.03 m × 2.35 m × 2.69 m | 68-70 m³ | 30,480kg | 4,000kg |
| 45HQ | 13.78 m × 2.54 m × 2.9 m | 13.58 m × 2.34 m × 2.7 m | 78-80 m³ | 32,500 kg | 4,850 kg |
- Other special container types include reefers (refrigerated containers) for transporting goods that require temperature control, open-top containers for extremely high goods, and flat rack containers for oversized or heavy goods.
Guide to Customs Clearance in Canada
Every shipment from China must go through Canadian customs clearance. Officials check details such as quantity, value, and quality, and ensure all duties and taxes are paid. Only goods that pass this inspection can enter the Canadian market. If you do not follow the rules, you could face delays, fines, or even lose your goods. For businesses, understanding the customs process and complying with the rules is essential for smooth, safe imports.
Key Customs Documents Required for Canada Imports
Proper documentation is critical for smooth customs clearance. The main documents are:
1. Bill of Lading (BOL)
- A transport document issued by the carrier
- Serves as a contract between the shipper and carrier, detailing the shipment’s route and contents
2. Commercial Invoice
- Provides essential details about the shipment, including the value, description, and origin of goods
- Used to assess duties and taxes
3. Packing List
- Lists the number of packages, weight, dimensions, and contents
- Helps customs officers verify shipments
4. Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
- Required under Free Trade Agreements (e.g., USMCA for imports from Canada/Mexico)
- Determines eligibility for preferential tariff treatment
Customs Clearance Process in Canada
- Prepare documents (Invoice, Packing List, B/L, COO)
- Choose declaration method (Self-filing or Broker)
- Sent to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) by the Canadian importer or their customs agent.
- CBSA verifies whether customs clearance documentation complies with regulations.
- Payment of duties and GST/HST value-added tax based on the goods' HS code
- Release from CBSA
- Importer/forwarder picks up goods
How to ship from China to Canada: Brief Steps
If you’re new to shipping, it’s a great idea to team up with a professional freight forwarder who can help guide you through the process. Here are some simple steps to get started:
Step 1: Choose a Reliable Freight Forwarder
Start by connecting with an experienced international freight forwarder who understands the ins and outs of China–Canada trade. At Hongocean, we’re here to help SMBs and e-commerce companies move their goods smoothly and cost-effectively.
Step 2: Select the Right Mode of Transportation
Pick a shipping method that best fits your cargo’s size, how quickly you need it, and your budget:
- Air Freight: Ideal for time-sensitive shipments. Delivery typically takes 3–7 days.
- Sea Freight (FCL or LCL): Best for bulk shipments. It’s more cost-effective but slower, with a transit time of 20–40 days.
- Express Services (FedEx, UPS, DHL): Suitable for small, high-value parcels that need fast delivery but at a higher cost.
Step 3: Arrange Pickup
Work together with your freight forwarder or carrier to arrange the pickup of your goods from your supplier, factory, or warehouse, and ensure they are on their way to the port or airport.
Step 4: Prepare Required Export and Import Documents
Having the right paperwork ready helps your shipment clear customs smoothly. Here are some of the documents you’ll need:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List (including country of origin and HS code)
- Certificate of Origin
- Bill of Lading
- Insurance Policy
📌 Partnering with a freight forwarder that handles customs brokerage can make things easier and help you avoid errors or delays along the way.
Step 5: Calculate Duties and Taxes
Check what import duties and taxes might apply by using the Canada Harmonized System (HS) code. You can look this up on the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website or use a third-party tariff tool.
Step 6: Check for Additional Fees or Permits
Certain goods may require additional taxes or regulatory approvals. For example:
- Alcohol or tobacco: Subject to excise tax
- Food, cosmetics, or medical items may need FDA approval
- Electronics or chemical items: May require FCC, EPA, or other permits
Step 7: Complete Canada Customs Clearance
Before your goods can enter Canada, customs clearance needs to be completed. This means submitting the right paperwork and any duty payments. For shipments exceeding $2,500, it’s generally advisable to have a licensed customs broker assist you with the process.
Step 8: Schedule Final Delivery
After your shipment clears customs, you’ll need to arrange for final delivery to its destination—whether that’s a business, warehouse, or customer. Your freight forwarder or a local logistics provider will be happy to help with this last step.
What to Consider When Choosing a Canadian Freight Forwarder
Choosing the right Canadian freight forwarder can truly enhance your shipping experience. With the right partner, you’ll enjoy a smooth and stress-free process and have your cargo delivered quickly to your preferred destination.
To help you find the best match for your needs, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Industry and route experience: Look for freight forwarders who are familiar with the China-Canada shipping routes and understand how to handle your specific type of cargo. For instance, if you’re shipping dangerous goods, choose a freight forwarder with experience in safely managing and transporting such items.
- Familiarity with Canada’s import regulations: Canada’s import regulations and policies are always changing. It’s essential to select a freight forwarder that stays current on the latest regulations, tariffs, and procedures.
- Transparency: No one likes surprise fees or unexpected charges. Look for freight forwarders who offer clear and upfront pricing, so you only pay what you expect when you book.
- Fast and responsive support: It’s reassuring to know you can reach your freight forwarder quickly if something unexpected comes up. Consider choosing a company that offers 24/7 live support so you can get help whenever you need it.
- Robust network coverage: A strong network means your freight forwarder can deliver your shipments anywhere in Canada from any location in China, giving you greater flexibility and peace of mind.
- Prioritize speed and efficiency: A dependable freight forwarder is a great partner for your business. They’ll help ensure your cargo arrives on time, allowing you to keep your operations running smoothly without any delays.