Cross-Border Shipping Canada to US Guide: How to Ship Truckload Freight Over the Northern Border

Cross-border shipping in Canada can be challenging for many business owners.

By 2030, Canada-U.S. trade is expected to reach over USD 1T.

Every day, thousands of trucks transport goods across the Canada-U.S. border.

While this is a routine activity, it can be more complicated than domestic freight shipping.

This guide provides 9 steps to ship your truckload freight smoothly.

From navigating governments to clearing customs, Waggon will handle all your cross-border freight shipping needs.

Set up a customs broker for your Canada cross-border shipping.

A customs broker handles documents like the Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, and Certification of Origin.

A broker ensures compliance with the Canada Border Services Agency and U.S. customs regulations.

This reduces penalties and shipment delays.

Always remember that early setup avoids holdups.

With 68% of cross-border freight moving by truck, effective communication with your customs broker smooths cross-border truckload shipments.

Waggon connects you with experienced customs brokers to manage your freight efficiently.

Moving truckload freight across the Canada-U.S. border involves key steps to ensure your cargo arrives safely.

Use a reliable freight transportation provider like Waggon to cover each cross-border freight shipping process step.

9 Steps to Moving a Cross-Border Canada Truckload Shipment

Follow these 9 steps to ensure smooth shipping from Canada to the US.

1. Establish Importer of Record – Assign an importer of record. This entity handles all import duties and compliance. It ensures your shipment meets US regulations.
2. Set Up a Customs Broker – Hire a customs broker in Canada. Allow at least one week for setup. Waggon manages the entry of your shipment into the US.
3. Consult with the Customs Broker for Documentation – Work with your customs broker. Waggon will guide you on the necessary documents. This step ensures all paperwork is correct.
4. Gather Necessary Paperwork: BOL and Commercial Invoice – Collect the Bill of Lading (BOL) and prepare a commercial invoice. These documents are essential for customs clearance.
5. Choose an Experienced Freight Forwarder/3PL – Select a reliable freight forwarder or third-party logistics provider (3PL). For expertise in cross-border shipping, choose providers like Waggon.
6. Ensure Communication with the Customs Broker – Maintain clear communication with your customs broker. Share all shipment details promptly to avoid delays.
7. Ship Freight After Confirming Alignment – Confirm all details with your freight forwarder. Ensure your shipment meets US import regulations before shipping.
8. File Documents with the Customs Broker – Submit all required documents to your customs broker, including the BOL, commercial invoice, and tariff codes.
9. Pre-Clear the Shipment as the Driver Approaches the Border – Have your customs broker pre-clear the shipment. This speeds up the border crossing as the truck approaches the US.

Following these steps helps you manage cross-border Canada freight shipping effectively.

Take the first step towards resolving your cross-border shipping challenges by requesting a quote today — our experienced team is ready to assist you.

Trust Waggon for seamless logistics solutions that keep your operations running smoothly over the border without a hitch!

To cross the border smoothly, you need the right documents and follow all regulations.

Rely on Waggon to manage your customs clearances and ensure compliance.

Essential Documents and Regulations

You need the right documents and follow the rules to ensure your truckload freight smoothly crosses the Canada-US border.

1. Bill of Lading (BOL) – Details of your shipment. Acts as a contract with your transportation provider.
2. Commercial Invoice – Lists the goods you export. Includes value and description for customs duties.
3. Certification of Origin – Required under USMCA/CUSMA. Grants preferential tariff treatment for your exports.
4. Tariff Code / Harmonized System (HS) – Classifies your goods. Determines taxes, duties, and statistics.
5. Preclearing Shipments – Submit through PARS in Canada and PAPS in the U.S. Speeds up customs clearance.
6. Consignee Information – Ensure consignee details are accurate. Incorrect info can delay your shipment.
7. Customs Broker – Hire a customs brokerage early. They handle the paperwork and prevent mismatched information.
8. Additional Documents – This may include export licenses or certificates for refrigerated goods. Depends on your shipment.
9. Compliance with Regulations – Follow Canada Customs and US regulations. Avoid common mistakes to ensure smooth exports.

What Is a Tariff Code / Harmonized System?

A tariff code classifies products for international trade.

The World Customs Organization set the Harmonized System (HS).

It uses a six-digit code worldwide, while countries like the U.S. and Canada add more digits for specific needs.

Exporters must use the right codes to calculate duties and taxes.

Accurate HS codes prevent delays and fines during customs clearance.

Using accurate tariff codes ensures smooth cross-border shipping.

Role of Customs Brokers

Customs brokers handle all the paperwork for your truckload shipping.

They use the Harmonized System to classify your goods correctly.

Accurate HS codes set the right tariffs and taxes, avoiding delays and fines.

A reliable customs broker, like Waggon, ensures your shipment meets U.S. and Canadian rules.

We manage documents such as the certificate of origin.

Brokers pre-clear shipments through PARS in Canada and PAPS in the U.S., speeding up your full truckload shipments and reducing risks.

Choose a provider who knows USMCA rules and handles cross-border shipments well.

Waggon offers dependable freight forwarding to meet your truckload needs.

How Do I Choose a Cross-border Transportation Provider?

Ensure your provider operates in both the U.S. and Canada.

You can choose a direct asset carrier, freight forwarder, or a cross-border 3PL — Waggon does both.

Cross-border 3PLs maintain strong carrier relationships and offer flexible capacity and competitive pricing.

Verify that the provider understands the USMCA agreement to comply with all regulations.

This knowledge helps prevent delays and ensures smooth cross-border transport.

What’s an Importer of Record?

The Importer of Record handles all customs documents and pays any tariffs owed.

This role ensures your shipment complies with U.S. customs regulations.

You simplify the process by assigning the destination party as the Importer of Record.

It reduces the burden on less-experienced shippers and helps avoid delays, which is why choosing the right importer of record is crucial.

The destination company often makes the best choice since they know local regulations.

This approach ensures smooth cross-border shipping and proper handling of your truckload freight.

Rely on the experienced team at Waggon to manage compliance and streamline your shipments.

Who Should Be the Importer of Record?

Choose a party with experience in handling customs.

Less experienced shippers might let their customers be the importer of record.

That is a Mistake! The destination party often makes this easier.

The importer handles all customs documents and pays tariffs.

This responsibility ensures shipments move smoothly across the border.

Using freight forwarders like Waggon can help manage these tasks.

Properly assigning the importer of record streamlines your cross-border shipping from Canada to the US.

Experience the efficiency of Waggon Cross-border freight Services.

We deliver your freight on time, every time — Contact us today to ensure your shipping needs are met with precision and reliability.

Rely on a partner who understands every step of the journey for seamless cross-border shipping between Canada and the U.S.

Waggon is a company with the authority and expertise to navigate the complexities of both countries’ regulations.

With a reliable customs broker managing your paperwork, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the logistics.

We provide a full range of cross-border shipping services designed to meet the unique needs of your business.

Choose Waggon for dependable logistics solutions that ensure your freight moves seamlessly across borders and beyond.