How to Avoid Border Delays When Shipping USA–Canada

Introduction

Cross-border shipping is powerful for business — but customs delays can cost you sales, contracts, and your sanity.Here’s how to avoid them.

1. Work With a Cross-Border Freight Specialist

Use a carrier like Logistics Road that understands U.S. and Canadian regulations.We’re already pre-cleared and experienced in handling customs documentation.

2. Prepare Your Paperwork

Make sure you have:

• Commercial Invoice

• Bill of Lading

• Canada Customs Invoice (if importing to Canada)

• NAFTA/USMCA certificate if applicable

3. Label Freight Clearly

Use accurate HS codes and make sure pallet counts and weights match documentation.

4. Know the Clearance Times

• U.S. to Canada: Can take 1–2 hours if cleared correctly

• Canada to U.S.: Often longer; use bonded carriers for smoother flow

Final Tip

Avoid cheap carriers with no border experience — the delay risk isn’t worth it.

Need a bonded cross-border carrier?

Get a quote from Logistics Road