Cross Border LTL | CUSTOMS SOLUTIONS

SHIPPING TO THE USA AND CANADA

Cross Border Shipping FAQs

I have never shipped to the USA or Canada. What do I need?

You will need to choose a customs broker for either the USA or Canada to clear your freight. For Canada, you'll need a Canadian customs broker and a PARS number from a cross border carrier. For the USA, you'll need an American customs broker and a SCAC code from a cross border carrier. If you need recommendations for customs brokers, we work with over 100 customs brokers daily and would gladly help connect you.

What documents do I need to ship to the USA or Canada?

To ship to Canada, you will need a BOL, a commercial invoice and a certificate of origin for CUSMA (the new NAFTA agreement) if applicable. To ship to the USA, you will need similar documents including a BOL, an invoice and a certificate of origin for USMCA (if applicable). In both cases, you may also need additional paperwork if your shipment requires PGA (Partner Government Agency) approval such as CFIA, FDA, USDA, CPSC, etc. Your customs broker will guide you through the specific requirements for each shipment.

Do I need a customs broker to ship to the USA or Canada?

Yes. For both the USA and Canada, a customs broker will file your shipment electronically and calculate the duties and taxes required.

Do I need to use Harmonized System (H.S.) codes to classify my freight?

Yes. It is highly recommended for both the USA and Canada, as all commodities must be classified using the H.S. codes.

Do I need a specific carrier to move shipments into the USA or Canada?

No. You do not need an American or Canadian carrier specifically, but you do need a cross border carrier that is authorized to perform border crossings. The carrier, whether American or Canadian, must have a driver that can cross the border.

Do I pay duties on my shipment?

Yes. Duties and taxes apply to most shipments to both the USA and Canada. Your customs broker can advise you on the duties and any rebates you may be eligible for in each country.

Does the “Free Trade Agreement” mean my freight crosses the border for free?

No. The Free Trade Agreement refers to certain tariffs and duties that no longer apply between trade partners, but freight still incurs other costs when crossing the border.

Do I need country of origin markings (COO) on my freight?

Yes. For both the USA and Canada, the COO must always be marked on your freight. The expectation is that it is marked to the lowest external packaging unit.

Can a shipment move in bond?

Yes. A bonded carrier can move your shipment in bond, allowing freight to move through customs without immediate duty payment, providing flexibility in the logistics process.

Polaris Transport is a Canadian bonded carrier and can move most dry goods in bond into Canada. In the USA, Polaris is also able to move freight in bond on select lanes, depending on commodity and routing.

There are various types of bonds used in both Canada and the USA. Into Canada we are a Bonded carrier and can move all types for your and for Movement into USA, Polaris supports the major bond types, including but not limited to:

T&E (Transportation & Exportation)
ITT (Immediate Transportation)
In-Transit bonds, among others

Please get in touch with us so we can review your shipment and provide the appropriate bonded solution and support based on your specific requirements.

How are HAZMAT shipments handled?

A HAZMAT Authorized driver and Carrier can move this for you, there are certain requirements please reach out to your brokers to ensure you have the necessary requirements met. Polaris Transport moves HAZMAT shipments selectively, based on commodity, classification, and regulatory requirements. HAZMAT freight is routed through approved ports and handled in coordination with qualified partners, particularly within the USA.

Due to the complexity and regulatory controls involved, not all lanes or ports are eligible. We work closely with our network to ensure compliance, safety, and proper handling.

For HAZMAT shipments, please reach out to our team in advance so we can confirm eligibility, routing, and the required documentation to support safe and compliant movement.

CUSMA resources

Downloadable Shipping Documents