With recent changes in the US customs tariff affecting imports to Canada, it's more important than ever for shoppers to stay informed. These updates can influence what you pay at the border and how smoothly your cross-border orders arrive.
This guide provides the key updates to the customs tariff for 2025. Plus, we will share tips on how you can shop smarter, avoid unexpected fees, and confidently manage your US-to-Canada shipments.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regularly adjusts its regulations for various reasons. However, the recent updates are not for the regular reasons. Instead, it's a response to major changes in US trade policy.
These adjustments aim to protect Canadian consumers and businesses from the rising costs caused by new US tariffs on Canadian imports.
Let’s check out some of the latest news and developments in our customs tariffs.
In February 2025, US President Trump announced new tariffs on Canadian products, prompting adjustments to Canada's customs tariffs. These changes impact US-to-Canada shipments, affecting cross-border shoppers and businesses alike. Here’s what happened:
Remember to get the latest updates about Canadian tariffs on US products, so you know what to expect with your item's additional customs fees.
Canada is considering a new program called the General Preferential Tariff Plus (GPT+). This program is like a special discount on tariffs for Canadian imports from developing and least developed countries.
This benefits these countries by making it easier and cheaper for them to sell their products in Canada. By lowering the cost of importing goods from these nations, Canada aims to help promote their economic growth.
For example, if a Canadian company receives clothing products from a country eligible for GPT+, it would pay lower tariffs than it would from other countries.
Think of Customs Notice 23-28 as a government update about changes to import taxes and rules. It tells businesses and individuals about:
Essentially, it's a way for the government to keep everyone informed so that importing goods is clear and efficient. To see the specific changes, you can check the official CBSA website.
Taking a deeper look at the Canadian customs tariff helps you understand the extra fees and taxes you may have to pay when shipping items across the border. Once you’ve got the lowdown on how it works, you can shop smarter and know exactly what to expect regarding costs.
This tariff system, known as the Harmonized System (HS), categorizes goods based on internationally standardized codes. The tariff codes can impact duties and taxes applied to imported goods, so it's important to accurately classify your products.
There are online sites that can help you identify your tariff code by providing the country of origin of the item and the item description.
Note that tariff rates and regulations may change, so it's best to stay updated with the latest information from the CBSA.
Canadian duty rates and exemptions vary depending on the type, origin, and value. Generally, goods sent to Canada are subject to duties calculated based on the product's classification in the Canadian Customs Tariff and its declared value.
Here’s a quick summary of the tax and duty rates when entering items from the US:
| Total Value | CBSA Tax | CBSA Duty |
| Less than $40 | No tax | No duty |
| More than $40 and less than $150 | Personal Import - 13%Business Import - 5% | No duty |
| More than $150 | Personal Import - 13%Business Import - 13% | 0-25% duty based on the product category |
In addition, tax and duty exemptions exist for individuals returning to Canada, depending on the duration of their absence. Here are the following exemptions: international emergency economic powers
You may visit CBSA’s website to learn more about import guidelines and customs fees.
Have a better cross-border shopping experience by shopping more and paying less in tariffs by following the techniques below:
The key to avoiding extra fees is to be precise about what you're importing. This means:
By being clear and accurate in your product declarations, you'll ensure you pay the correct amount of taxes and avoid unexpected delays or fines.
Canada lets you bring back a certain amount of goods without paying duties or taxes. Plan your shopping to stay within these limits.
Using this allowance means you can save money on US-to-Canada shipping and still get items that might be hard to find or more expensive in Canada.
With Canada's membership in various trade agreements, such as the European Union and the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), consumers can benefit from lower tariffs and streamlined customs procedures when importing goods from partner countries.
By tapping into these agreements, Canadians can gain access to a wider range of products at low costs, including:
This strategy promotes increased consumer choice, economic growth, and international cooperation. It emphasizes the importance of preferential trade agreements in creating the retail landscape for Canadians.
Buying stuff online has become a go-to move for Canadian shoppers. It's all about convenience, choice, and getting your hands on some sweet deals without even having to leave the comforts of your home.
Additionally, think about all the expenses you're saving by not travelling all the way to the US to hit up the malls or outlets. No need to spend on gas and accommodations!
With tons of US online stores out there, you can pretty much find whatever you're after with just a few clicks at your favourite online retailer. Plus, you can compare prices, read reviews, and explore way more options than you'd find in a regular store.
With the recent implementation of US and Canadian tariffs, you might find that some of your favourite US brands are now more expensive. Don't worry, there are still ways to get the products you need!
Consider exploring Canadian brands or US brand alternatives that offer similar products at more competitive prices.
For a detailed guide on finding great brand alternatives: U.S. Tariffs Updates - Brands to Avoid & Their Alternatives
For a smoother US-to-Canada shopping experience, consider using a package forwarding service like Shipssy. Here's why:
Understanding customs tariffs simplifies the cross-border shopping experience for Canadians. By staying informed and using the strategies above, you can confidently make informed purchases, save money, and enjoy access to a broader selection of online goods.
Jay Alagon serves as the business manager at Shippsy, where he aims to provide Canadians with access to all US retailers without worrying about high shipping costs, long delivery times, and complicated paperwork associated with cross-border shopping. Outside of work, he enjoys practicing martial arts and woodworking.
Read all posts written by Jayson Alagon
Are you a Canadian shopper who loves to browse the aisles of US shops? While the excitement of finding your dream item can be thrilling, it's important to be aware of cross-border shipping challenges that can affect the delivery of your US purchases to Canada. This blog outlines Canadian shoppers' common issues as well as […]
Victoria's Secret is famous for its stylish lingerie, comfortable sleepwear, and popular beauty products. Even though many stores, including those in Canada, have closed since 2020, the demand for their products is still strong. If you're asking, "Does Victoria Secret ship to Canada?" you've come to the right place to get all the details! In […]
Have you ever scrolled through Pacsun's trendy threads and wondered, "Does Pacsun ship to Canada?" Well, you don't have to wonder anymore! This guide will help you find the answer to this burning question. We will discuss their shipping policies and explore options for getting your Pacsun items straight to Canada. Key Takeaways Who Is […]
