Seamless Cross Border Shipping You Can Trust

Amplify Logistics has a team of dedicated border crossing experts and several customs gateway locations in Canada and the US. To determine whether your shipment has crossed the border, we will consider its origin and destination. We take measures to use direct routes for your cargo in order to guarantee an efficient and timely delivery service.

If you’d like to ship goods from the US to Canada, you may use a Canadian customs broker, depending on where the goods will require customs clearance. Amplify Logistics is a cross-border shipping company offering broker-inclusive services to our clients who are in this business. Our goal is to provide simple and efficient cross-border transportation for our clients.

Setting up your shipment:

To ensure a smooth process, it’s essential to set up your shipping account in advance. Contact your forwarding agent and customs broker to establish your account and provide any forms needed. Having these relationships in place ahead of time will help prevent unnecessary shipping delays.

Shipping instructions:

When shipping goods to your chosen destination, be sure to follow the shipping instructions provided by your carrier or logistics partner. Clearly label your shipment with your name and reference information to avoid confusion at the warehouse or pickup point.

The amount you pay for duty and taxes will depend on your cargo. This amount is billed by your customs broker and reported to customs on your behalf.

Waiting for your shipment:

Once all documents are in order, your shipment will be processed and shipped. For commercial shipments, delivery is typically made directly to your specified location. For personal shipments, your logistics provider will arrange for pickup at their local office and notify you when your goods are ready.

There is a standard coverage offered against losses or damages and this will vary depending on the weight of your cargo. However, you can still request for additional insurance coverage.

The shipping costs will depend on your pricing plan. We’re happy to discuss this in detail if you reach out to our team directly.

At the minimum, you will be required to provide a commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading. The documents should be provided to us when we pick your shipment. In some cases, additional documents may be required. If this is the case, you can get a customs broker to help you prepare these documents. Customs brokers can help to prepare documents such as the export licence which is necessary when transporting regulated cargo such as alcohol and firearms. It’s important to communicate with the freight forwarding agent and ask about all documentation required beforehand.

• Ensure that all the information about the product is provided before shipping it for the first time. This includes information regarding the components that make up the product and manufacturing process.

• In some cases, it can be helpful to ship a product sample in advance so that it undergoes the necessary inspection and classification. This can help to avoid unnecessary delays in cross border shipping in Toronto.

• Ensure products are properly classified before shipping. Classification of products can take a long time depending on the complexity of the item being shipped.

For commercial shipments, delivery is typically included to your business location. For personal shipments or specific arrangements, your logistics provider will coordinate with you for local pickup, providing you with the address and available hours for collection.

By following these steps and preparing the required documentation in advance, you can ensure your cross-border shipments move quickly and efficiently. If you have any questions, our logistics experts are happy to walk you through the process.

Are there limits to the size or type of shipments I can import?

Yes—there are some important considerations to keep in mind. While our cross-border courier services are ideal for small to mid-sized shipments and general commercial goods, they may not be suitable for oversized, bulk, or specialty freight requiring dedicated equipment or special handling. If you’re planning to move large-scale commercial loads, hazardous materials, or items regulated by government agencies (such as alcohol, firearms, or pharmaceuticals), let us know in advance so we can recommend the most effective shipping strategy. Our logistics experts will advise you on the best approach—whether that means partnering with carriers equipped for full truckload or temperature-controlled services, or arranging for necessary permits and documentation. Your peace of mind is our top priority, and we want every shipment to reach its destination safely and smoothly.

Consulting and Additional Services for Cross-Border Shipping

In addition to core freight and customs solutions, there’s a range of specialized services available to streamline your cross-border experience and address unique shipping scenarios. Here are some of the key offerings you can take advantage of:

• Vehicle Import/Export Guidance
  Whether you’re moving a single collector car or coordinating an entire fleet, experienced consultants can assist with importing vehicles into Canada or the US, including managing AES filings and navigating complex automotive regulations.
• Customs Clearance Support
  Both US and Canadian customs clearance can be seamlessly handled by experienced brokers, ensuring your documentation is correct and your shipments move without avoidable delays.
• Cross-Border Courier Services
  For urgent or lower-volume shipments, cross-border courier options offer reliable, trackable delivery solutions between the US and Canada.
• International Freight Forwarding
  Access a complete suite of freight solutions—from full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) to breakbulk shipping—for large or specialized cargo.
• Warehousing & Fulfillment
  Comprehensive warehousing options, including secure storage, pick-and-pack, and order fulfillment, allow you to position inventory closer to your North American customers.
• Non-Resident Importer Solutions
  If you’re looking to sell into Canada or the US without a physical presence, non-resident importer services can simplify compliance and tax requirements so you can reach new markets.
• Duty Recovery and Cost-Saving Strategies
  Consultants can help identify opportunities to recover overpaid duties or streamline your supply chain costs, including using duty deferral programs and Free Trade Agreements such as USMCA/CUSMA.
• Customs Automation Tools
  By leveraging the latest digital customs solutions, you can automate entry creation, track shipments in real time, and minimize manual paperwork.
• Film & Entertainment Logistics
  Specialized support is also available for the film and entertainment industry, including customs clearance and fast shipping for production equipment and set materials.

All of these services are designed to make cross-border shipping as seamless as possible, whether you’re an established multinational or a first-time exporter.

How quickly will I receive my goods after they arrive at the warehouse?

Delivery times are fast once your shipment reaches our warehouse. Our cross-border drivers are on scheduled runs several times a week, so most deliveries are completed within 1–2 days after arrival. In many cases, your package is delivered on the same day it arrives, depending on your location and the timing of the next scheduled route. For up-to-date details on delivery timing, our team can provide tracking and specific schedules based on your shipment.

Why Choose a Cross-Border Courier Service?

When shipping between the US and Canada, using a cross-border courier service offers several key advantages that streamline the process and make your life easier.

Handle Restricted Shipments with Ease
Certain products can be tricky to ship directly from the US to Canada, especially with U.S.-only restrictions. A cross-border courier can help by routing your items through a local hub—such as receiving your shipment at a nearby US location and managing the delivery into Canada. This is especially helpful for goods that some carriers won’t deliver over the border.

Fast, Predictable Delivery Times
Many cross-border courier services operate on regular schedules, so you don’t have to wait endlessly for your shipment. For example, some services run multiple deliveries each week, meaning your package moves quickly once it arrives at the US warehouse—often arriving in Canada within days. This can be a real relief if you’re shipping commercial goods on a deadline or you’re eager to receive a personal parcel.

Cost Savings on Larger Shipments
Traditional courier rates can add up quickly, particularly when they’re calculated by weight. Cross-border couriers frequently offer pricing models based on duty and customs fees instead, allowing you to save significantly—especially when shipping bulky or heavy items. This means you pay for what matters instead of shelling out for excessive weight charges.

Simplified Customs Process
With an experienced cross-border courier, much of the customs paperwork is managed on your behalf. This reduces your risk of errors, streamlines customs clearance, and lowers the chances of unexpected delays or fees.

By choosing a cross-border courier, you navigate shipping restrictions, move your packages faster, spend less on large shipments, and enjoy a more straightforward customs experience.

Absolutely. Many businesses find that cross-border courier options are more economical for large or bulky shipments, especially when you know how to navigate the process. Instead of paying solely based on weight—as is common with standard courier services—cross-border specialists often help you optimize your shipments based on duty classifications or freight class. This approach can unlock significant savings.

Tips to save money when shipping large items cross-border:

• Leverage consolidated shipping: Some couriers and logistics partners offer consolidated services that combine multiple shipments heading to the same region. This can spread out costs and reduce your per-item shipping rate.
• Request quotes from multiple providers: Don’t be shy about comparing rates from different cross-border specialists, including well-known names like FedEx Trade Networks or Livingston International.
• Double-check duty classification: Having your goods properly classified by a customs broker can help ensure you aren’t overpaying on duties and taxes.
• Use the right service for your item: For oversized or heavy freight, truckload (FTL) or less-than-truckload (LTL) freight options are often more cost-effective than parcel services.

Our team is always available to help you find the most economical option for your specific needs, whether you’re moving a single large piece or regular oversized shipments across the border.

The cost comparison between cross-border courier services and traditional postal carriers like Canada Post or USPS depends largely on the size and weight of your shipment, as well as the urgency of delivery.

• For smaller parcels, standard postal options often offer the lowest rates, particularly if speed isn’t a priority.
• For larger shipments or freight, couriers such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL can actually be more economical and tend to provide faster, more reliable services along with end-to-end tracking and better support for complex customs documentation.

Ultimately, if you’re shipping bulk goods, high-value items, or cargo that falls outside postal restrictions, a cross-border courier frequently delivers better value and efficiency. For lighter personal shipments, however, sticking with the postal service might make the most sense.

What international documentation do I require for cross border shipping?

If you’d like to ship goods from the US to Canada, you may use a Canadian customs broker, depending on where the goods will require customs clearance. Amplify Logistics is a cross-border shipping company offering broker-inclusive services to our clients who are in this business. Our goal is to provide simple and efficient cross-border transportation for our clients.

Setting up your shipment:

To ensure a smooth process, it’s essential to set up your shipping account in advance. Contact your forwarding agent and customs broker to establish your account and provide any forms needed. Having these relationships in place ahead of time will help prevent unnecessary shipping delays.

Step-by-Step Shipping Process

1. Account Setup
   Reach out to your logistics provider to obtain and complete any necessary account setup forms. This ensures you’re ready to move quickly when it’s time to ship.
2. Shipping Instructions
   When shipping goods to your chosen destination, be sure to follow the shipping instructions provided by your carrier or logistics partner. Clearly label your shipment with your name and reference information to avoid confusion at the warehouse or pickup point. For example, include your name followed by “C/O” and the warehouse address. Ensure all packages are addressed correctly to help your shipment move efficiently through the system.
3. Customs Documentation
   Prepare and submit all required documents for customs clearance, such as the Commercial Invoice or Bill of Sale. If your goods qualify, include a USMCA Certificate or Low Value Statement of Origin. Ensure each item’s vendor information, address, and country of manufacture are provided. Incomplete documents may cause your shipment to be delayed or subject to additional duties.
4. Waiting for Arrival
   Once your shipment is in transit, your logistics provider will keep you updated. For commercial shipments, delivery is often made directly to your specified location. For personal shipments, you may be contacted to arrange pickup at a local office or warehouse. Be sure to note the pickup address and hours provided by your logistics partner to avoid missed collections.

By following these steps and maintaining clear communication with your shipping and customs partners, you can streamline your cross-border shipping experience and minimize unexpected delays.

Once all documents are in order, your shipment will be processed and shipped. For commercial shipments, delivery is typically made directly to your specified location. For personal shipments, your logistics provider will arrange for pickup at their local office and notify you when your goods are ready.

To help ensure a smooth customs clearance, be sure to provide the necessary paperwork—including a Commercial Invoice or Bill of Sale. Depending on your shipment’s origin and value, you may also need a Certificate or Statement of Origin. Make sure each item is clearly listed with the full name and address of the vendor, and indicate the country of manufacture. Shipments originating in the U.S. without the proper certificates may be subject to additional duties.

For commercial shipments, prices often include delivery within the destination city. For personal shipments, you’ll be contacted to arrange pickup—typically at the courier’s local office during regular weekday business hours. Be sure to check the pickup address and times so you can plan accordingly.

At the minimum, you will be required to provide a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. The documents should be provided to us when we pick your shipment. In some cases, additional documents may be required. If this is the case, you can get a customs broker to help you prepare these documents. Customs brokers can help to prepare documents such as the export licence which is necessary when transporting regulated cargo such as alcohol and firearms. It’s important to communicate with the freight forwarding agent and ask about all documentation required beforehand.

If you’re shipping items that are restricted or regulated, be sure to gather all the necessary permits and paperwork before your shipment leaves. For example, certain products may require inspection, classification, or advance notification to customs authorities to ensure entry into Canada or the U.S. isn’t delayed. If you’re uncertain whether your goods fall under these categories, consult your customs broker or logistics provider in advance—they can provide guidance or even handle the process for you.

Taking the time to confirm these requirements up front will help avoid unnecessary headaches, delays, or extra costs as your shipment crosses the border.