Shopping online from international retailers has become easier than ever. With just a few clicks, you can order the latest styles, gadgets, or home goods and have them shipped right to your door in Canada. But one thing that often surprises shoppers is the import charges that may be added when their package arrives in Canada.
At Ezclear, we want to help you understand how this process works, so you can avoid surprises and know what to expect before you place your next order.
Why Do Import Charges Apply?
When you buy from a retailer outside of Canada, your package must clear Canadian Customs before being delivered. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reviews each shipment to determine if duties and taxes apply.
These import charges are based on several factors, including:
- The type of item you purchased (e.g., clothing, electronics, accessories).
- The declared value of the item.
- The country of origin.
It’s important to note that these charges are not set by the retailer or Ezclear—they are implemented by CBSA.
DDU vs. DDP: Understanding Shipping Terms
Most international retailers ship to Canada under DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) terms. This means that while the retailer covers the cost of shipping, the customer is responsible for any duties, taxes, or brokerage fees when the package arrives in Canada.
In contrast, some retailers offer DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) shipping. With DDP, the import charges are calculated and paid upfront during checkout, so you won’t face additional costs when the package arrives.
Because most retailers outside of Canada use DDU, it’s common for Canadian shoppers to only find out about import charges once CBSA has assessed their package.
How to Check if Import Charges May Apply
Every retailer is different, but many include information about import duties and taxes in their FAQ section or shipping policy page—rather than directly at checkout. Before placing your order, it’s worth taking a moment to review these sections on their website.
Here are a few tips:
- Look for terms like “duties and taxes”, “import fees”, or “international shipping policies”.
- Check if the retailer mentions DDP shipping (rare, but sometimes available).
- If it’s unclear, assume that duties and taxes will be charged upon arrival.
What Happens When Your Package Arrives in Canada
Once your order enters Canada, CBSA will assess whether import charges apply. If your package was shipped DDU, you’ll be notified of the charges and will need to pay them before final delivery can be made.
At Ezclear, we help streamline this process by managing the clearance and paperwork so that your package can be released quickly.
