Shipping freight to Canada less-than-truckload isn’t the complicated process that it’s cracked up to be. In fact, if you follow a few quick tips from our FreightPros, you’ll be shipping freight to Canada in no time.

There are two main differences between a standard LTL shipment and one going to Canada. The first is the customs broker name and phone number. This information must be on the bill of lading used at the time of pickup.

Unfortunately, FreightPros doesn’t offer this service, but a quick Google search should be able to help you find a customs broker that fits your needs. Regardless of how you find them, their contact information needs to be on the BOL when the freight hits the border.

EVERY SHIPMENT GOING TO CANADA VIA LTL SHIPPING WILL NEED CUSTOMS BROKER INFO ON THE BOL.

The second thing you’ll need when shipping freight to Canada is the commercial invoice for the goods being shipped. A commercial invoice is proof of the value of the shipment, and is needed for the customs process.

The remainder of freight to Canada unfolds like a typical LTL shipment. You’ll need freight class, dimensions, etc., but most national carriers ship freight to our northern borders on a regular basis. Your freight broker will be able to check and make sure your particular carrier makes the move.

One last thing to keep in mind when you’re moving freight to Canada is the annoying storage fee. If you don’t provide the correct information on the BOL and your shipment gets stuck at the border, there is a chance that it can accumulate storage fees.

So when you’re shipping to Canada, don’t just ship it out and forget it. Track your freight (your broker can help) and make sure it gets to your Canadian consignee.