Rates are estimates based on USPS Price Group 1 (Canada).
First-Class Package International
11-20 Business Days
$0.00
Priority Mail International
6-10 Business Days
$0.00
Priority Mail Express International
3-5 Business Days
$0.00
Comprehensive Guide to USPS Shipping Rates to Canada
Shipping from the United States to Canada is one of the most common international logistics routes. While Canada is a neighbor, it is still an international destination, meaning specific postage rates (Price Group 1) and customs requirements apply. This guide breaks down how USPS calculates these costs and what you need to know before mailing your package.
Important: Canada is classified as Price Group 1 for USPS international shipping. This generally offers the lowest international rates compared to other zones, but weight and dimensions still play a critical role in the final cost.
Understanding the Service Levels
USPS offers three main tiers for shipping to Canada, balancing speed versus cost:
First-Class Package International Service: The most economical option for lightweight packages. To qualify, your package must weigh less than 4 lbs (64 oz). It is ideal for small e-commerce orders, gifts, or documents. Tracking is available via the Delcon service to major Canadian cities.
Priority Mail International: A reliable mid-tier option that supports packages up to 66 lbs. It includes tracking and up to $200 in insurance for merchandise (restrictions apply). Delivery usually takes 6-10 business days.
Priority Mail Express International: The fastest standard option, typically arriving in 3-5 business days with a money-back guarantee to certain destinations. It includes up to $200 in insurance and detailed tracking.
Customs Forms and Duties
Even though it is just across the border, all packages (excluding nondutiable documents in standard envelopes) require a customs form.
Form CN22: Usually integrated into the shipping label for lighter packages (First-Class and small Priority boxes).
Form CP72: Used for heavier Priority Mail parcels.
Note on Duties: Your recipient in Canada may be responsible for paying GST/HST and a handling fee to Canada Post upon delivery if the item's value exceeds the de minimis threshold (currently $20 CAD for gifts and $20 CAD for commercial items, though new USMCA rules have adjusted this for couriers, USPS often remains under strict scrutiny).
Weight and Dimension Limits
Weight is the primary cost driver. Our calculator estimates costs based on the total weight in pounds and ounces.
First-Class Limit: Max 4 lbs. If your package is 4 lbs 1 oz, you automatically bump up to Priority Mail rates, which can double the price.
Max Weight: generally 66 lbs for Canada via Priority Mail.
Max Dimensions: The maximum length plus girth (distance around the thickest part) is 108 inches.
Tips for Reducing Shipping Costs
Keep it under 4 lbs: If possible, split a large shipment into two smaller First-Class packages. It is often cheaper than one heavy Priority Mail box.
Use Flat Rate: USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelopes and Small Boxes can be cheaper than calculating by weight if you are shipping heavy, small items (like machine parts or books).
Print Labels Online: Retail rates (what you pay at the post office counter) are higher than Commercial Base rates available through online shipping platforms (like Shippo, Pirate Ship, or Stamps.com).
function calculateShipping() {
// 1. Get Inputs
var lbsInput = document.getElementById('weightLbs').value;
var ozInput = document.getElementById('weightOz').value;
var valueInput = document.getElementById('packageValue').value;
var packageType = document.getElementById('packageType').value;
// 2. Validate Inputs
var lbs = parseFloat(lbsInput) || 0;
var oz = parseFloat(ozInput) || 0;
var value = parseFloat(valueInput) || 0;
var errorDiv = document.getElementById('errorDisplay');
var resultsDiv = document.getElementById('resultsArea');
// Reset state
errorDiv.style.display = 'none';
errorDiv.innerHTML = ";
if (lbs === 0 && oz === 0) {
errorDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter a valid weight greater than 0.";
errorDiv.style.display = 'block';
resultsDiv.style.display = 'none';
return;
}
// 3. Calculation Logic
// Convert everything to total pounds for high level math, and total ounces for First Class check
var totalOz = (lbs * 16) + oz;
var totalLbs = totalOz / 16;
// Estimated Retail Rates for Canada (Price Group 1) – Simulated Logic
// Note: These are mathematical approximations of the 2024 rate tables for demonstration
var fcPrice = 0;
var pmPrice = 0;
var pmePrice = 0;
var showFc = false;
// First Class Package International (Limit 4 lbs / 64 oz)
// Base starts roughly $15.75 for <8oz, scales to ~$39 for 4lbs
if (totalLbs <= 4) {
showFc = true;
if (totalOz <= 8) {
fcPrice = 16.00;
} else if (totalOz <= 32) {
// Linear approx between 8oz ($16) and 32oz ($28)
fcPrice = 16.00 + ((totalOz – 8) * 0.50);
} else {
// Linear approx between 32oz ($28) and 64oz ($42)
fcPrice = 28.00 + ((totalOz – 32) * 0.45);
}
}
// Priority Mail International
// Base starts roughly $43 (1lb) scales up.
// Formula approx: $40 base + $3.50 per lb
if (totalLbs <= 66) {
pmPrice = 42.00 + (totalLbs * 3.75);
} else {
pmPrice = "Over Weight Limit";
}
// Priority Mail Express International
// Base starts roughly $56 (0.5lb) scales up.
// Formula approx: $55 base + $5.50 per lb
if (totalLbs 200) {
insuranceMsg = "Note on Insurance: Since your package value ($" + value.toFixed(2) + ") exceeds $200, additional insurance fees may apply for Priority services. First-Class International generally does not include insurance.";
} else if (value > 0) {
insuranceMsg = "Priority and Express services include up to $200 insurance for merchandise at no extra cost.";
}
document.getElementById('insuranceNote').innerHTML = insuranceMsg;
}