【Shipping Guide】Hong Kong to Canada Cheat Sheet: Fastest, Most Affordable International Courier Options, Considerations, Import Duties, and Regulations on Prohibited Items

Sending packages to Canada is an important task, and finding the fastest and most cost-effective international courier options is a key challenge. In this article, we will provide a shipping guide for sending parcels from Hong Kong to Canada, helping you understand considerations, import duties, and regulations regarding prohibited items. This will enable you to send your packages smoothly, saving time and money.

I. Challenges when Sending to Canada

1. Transportation and Transit Times

Canada's vast geography and extensive transportation network may result in longer transit times, especially for remote or sparsely populated areas.

2. Transportation Costs

Transportation costs in Canada can be relatively high, especially for long distances and large shipments. Air freight is typically more expensive than sea or land transportation. Balancing cost and transit time is necessary when choosing the appropriate shipping method.

3. Customs and Clearance Procedures

Canada has strict customs and clearance regulations, requiring inspections and declarations for shipped items. This may lead to delays and additional fees. It is crucial to understand and comply with applicable regulations.

4. Risk of Damage and Loss

There is a risk of damage or loss during international transportation. Selecting a reliable logistics company that provides appropriate insurance and a tracking system can minimize these risks.

II. Import Duties to Canada

1. Import Duty

Goods valued below 40 CAD are exempt from import duties. Goods valued above 40 CAD are subject to import duties based on their category and value.

2. Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Canada imposes a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on imported goods. However, imports valued below 40 CAD are exempt from this tax.

Additionally, the tariff rates for imported goods to Canada vary depending on the product category

Clothing: Average tariff rate of 16.5% but can reach up to 18%.

Furniture, bedding, and prefabricated buildings: 2.1%.

Iron or steel materials: 2.2%.

Pharmaceuticals: 3.5%.

Vehicles: 13.9%.

Notebooks and other electronic products are exempt from tariffs.

III. Prohibited and Restricted Items when Shipping from Hong Kong to Canada

1. Prohibited Items

Firearms and Ammunition: All types of firearms, ammunition, and explosives are strictly prohibited from importation.

Drugs: Any type of drugs, hallucinogens, and illegal substances are prohibited from importation.

Insects, Animals, and their Products: Protected wildlife, plants, and their products may require special permits for importation.

Counterfeit Currency and Goods: Importing or transmitting counterfeit currency, counterfeit goods, or stolen items is illegal.

Intellectual Property Infringing Items: Importing items that violate intellectual property laws, such as counterfeit products and pirated goods, is prohibited.


2. Restricted Items

Medicines: Certain medicines may be subject to restrictions and require special permits or documentation for importation.

Food and Agricultural Products: Importing food and agricultural products must comply with Canadian food regulatory standards and may require special permits or documentation.

Cosmetics and Skincare Products: Importing cosmetics and skincare products must meet the requirements of the Canadian health department.

Electronic Products: Certain electronic products may require special permits or compliance with specific standards for importation.

Alcoholic Beverages: Importing alcoholic beverages must meet Canadian regulations on alcoholic beverage control.

IV. Methods for Shipping from Hong Kong to Canada

1. Consultation and Quotation

Obtain more information about shipping from Hong Kong to Canada through the official website of courier companies. You can learn about their service coverage, shipping methods, prices, etc. If you have specific needs or questions, you can contact their customer service team for consultation and quotation.

2. Packaging and Labeling

Courier companies will provide packaging and labeling guidelines suitable for shipping from Hong Kong to Canada. They understand the specific nature of different goods and ensure proper protection during transportation. Based on their recommendations, you can choose appropriate packaging materials and label relevant information such as ingredients and instructions.

3. Tracking and Monitoring

Courier companies offer tracking and monitoring services, allowing you to stay updated on the status of your package during shipping from Hong Kong to Canada. They will provide a tracking number that you can use to check the location and delivery progress of your package through the official website or designated channels.

4. Delivery and Confirmation

Finally, when your goods arrive at the destination, ensure the recipient inspects and confirms the package. If there are any damages or issues, promptly contact the customer service team of the courier company, and they will assist with the necessary actions.


If you have any questions regarding shipping from Hong Kong to Canada, please consult international courier service provider DealerSend. We can provide relevant advice and guidance to ensure a smooth shipping process.

DealerSend offers fast and reliable services, implementing effective logistics management and delivery strategies to provide customers with the most cost-effective choices. Additionally, DealerSend has a professional customer service team that provides detailed lists of prohibited items to help you avoid regulatory violations and ensure the smooth delivery of your packages.