Cross-border shipping presents some unique considerations compared to shipping within one’s own country. In particular, cross-border shipping can be expensive and has more opportunity for delays and issues with customs. However, shipping from Canada to the U.S. is among the easiest cross-border shipping routes. This is especially true in a major city like Toronto where there is access to more resources than in more rural areas.
Here, we will look at what you need to know about shipping from Toronto to the U.S. along with tips for the cheapest ways to ship cross-border.
Toronto to the U.S. Shipping Considerations
- Documentation: While shipping between the U.S. and Canada is an easier process compared to shipping overseas, there is still important documentation needed for this international shipping. This includes an Electronic Export Information Form, Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, a USMCA certificate of origin, and an Import/Export certificate. Most of this documentation is used to accurately track what is in the cargo to ensure it can be replaced or reimbursed if damage or loss occurs.
- Customs Broker: A customs broker helps you navigate the international shipping process. You will need a broker in the country you are shipping to, i.e. in the U.S.
- Approval from Government Agencies: Many products require special inspection and authorization by a U.S. government agency. Food products, hazardous materials, fuels, pesticides and wildlife are just a few of the categories that will require special inspection.
- Customer Management: If you are new to cross-border shipping, one major consideration that often gets overlooked is managing customer expectations. While shipping has become easier and faster than it was in the past, international shipping will still take longer than local shipping. Strive to be upfront with customers about shipping times and potential extra fees associated with cross-border shipping. These details should be listed directly on your website including currency conversion options. Ideally, create a dedicated website for your U.S. customers with all prices listed in USD.
Cross-Border Shipping Vs Warehousing
One major consideration for those shipping over the border is whether or not they want to ship their items and warehouse them or ship them directly to consumers. With cross-border shipping, you will ship out items as they are ordered by your customers.
The advantage to this is that you will not be paying warehousing fees to store the items locally. However, shipping times on each order will be longer. Conversely, you can also ship a larger quantity of items to a local warehouse. Items will then be shipped to customers locally when ordered.
Which option you choose will likely come down to the size of your customer base and frequency of orders. If you find that orders are small and infrequent, it makes more sense to stick with LTL shipping directly from Toronto to the U.S. However, as your customer base in the U.S. grows, warehousing should be considered as a faster method to serve your clients.
Tips for Reducing Costs on Shipping from Toronto to the U.S.
Shipping cross-border has several additional costs incorporated over and above what shipping entails within a single country. This includes certain mandatory taxes and fees, discrepancies in price due to currency conversion, plus added fuel costs due to additional mileage in many cases.
Here are some tips you can use to reduce your costs when shipping from Toronto to the U.S.
Less than Truckload Shipping: If you plan to ship cargo that is between 150 lbs and 10,000 lbs, you can take advantage of LTL shipping. While LTL shipping is more costly per pound vs FTL, it is an effective way to transport smaller shipments.
At OCT, we have an extensive network that allows us to combine LTL shipments for the fastest and most affordable shipping methods.
Full Truckload Shipping: Conversely, if you can fill a full truckload, there is an automatic savings here too. While the overall cost will be more, the per pound rate will be lower.
Detailed Documentation: Proper documentation is important on all shipments but particularly on international shipments where there are typically more inspections and potential delays. Ensure your Bill of Lading and Commercial Invoice accurately reflect the contents of your cargo to reduce issues at the border. You can also apply for pre-approval on some shipments.
Benefits of Ontario Container Transport for Cross-Border Shipping
If you are in Toronto and looking to ship to the U.S., one of the best cost-savings measures you take is partnering with a carrier who understands the logistics of cross-border shipping. OCT has in-depth knowledge and experience with shipping from Toronto to the U.S. We help you manage the necessary documentation, find cost-savings methods, and help you to serve your customers better.
- Extensive Distribution Network: Our extensive network of local warehousing and distribution options help us to manage your shipments simply and effectively.
- Customized Logistics: We work with your company to meet your needs by creating a customized logistics plan for you.
- Cross-Border Shipping Expertise: We specialize in shipping between Canada and the U.S.. Our expertise ensures your shipments can be delivered with minimal hassle no matter the kind of cargo you are shipping.
- LTL and FTL Shipping: Our full and less than truckload shipping options allow you to ship both large and small shipments in the most cost-effective way possible.
- Personalized Customer Care: At OCT, we understand how important it is to be able to rely on your carrier for your business. When you partner with OCT, you will have access to our dedicated care team and accurate, timely updates on your shipments.
Request a Free Quote for Shipping from Toronto to the U.S.
Ready to get started? Ontario Container Transport is here to help. We offer customized free quotes on cross-border shipping including specialized shipping with refrigerated trucks and fragile item handling. To request a free quote, contact OCT at (905) 695 -1501.
