Everything You Need To Know About Freight Shipping In Canada

Freight shipping is the process of transporting goods in large and small quantities by air, road or sea. If you’re in Canada and need to ship products to your clients, there are regulations that you will need to follow for successful shipping. You need to consider other factors before choosing the kind of shipping method to use.

In this article, we will explain everything you need to put in mind when shipping.

Types of Freight Shipping

There are many freight shipping methods in Canada to choose from, whether you’re shipping once or frequently. Below are the types of shipping:

1. Light Truckload (LTL) Freight

The LTL freight is usually used to ship goods that are smaller but not less than 150 pounds and does not exceed 15000 pounds. The cargo is, however, big enough so it cannot be sent as a parcel. These goods are palletized to protect them from damage.

This method is cheaper because you only pay for a fraction of the Truckload. You share the cost of the freight with others who have their freights on the truck. Light truckload freight is very common and is mostly used locally.

2. Full Truckload (FTL) Freight

The full track load is right for you if the truck and everything doesn’t exceed 80000 pounds. These goods are usually huge and might need more specialized freight services. Full track load can be a bit expensive, but it’s the best for heavy weight compared to LTL.

3. Partial Truckload Freight

Partial Truckload combines both LTL and FTL. The LTL can use several trucks before the commodities are delivered to the owner. In FTL commodities will occupy the truck, and the same cargo truck can deliver the goods to its final destination.

4. Intermodal Freight

If you aren’t in a hurry to deliver or receive your commodities, rail freight can be the best option for you. This freight shipping method is cheap and safe and can meet all your needs both commercially and personally.

5. Expedited Freight

If you want to ship perishable goods, then you will need a specialized freight method. Expedited freight is a specialized type of shipping suitable for shipping perishables like fruits, flowers, livestock, seafood, and vegetables.

What Do You Need for Freight Shipping in Canada?

For you to conduct any freight shipping in Canada, you’ll need to have the following:

1. Customs Broker

If this is the first time you’re trying to ship goods, you need to get yourself a good customs broker. You cannot conduct any freight shipping in Canada without having a customs broker. The following are the duties of the customs broker:

• He/she ensures that all the freight regulations are followed.
• Clears your shipments at the border.
• Helps in tracking your shipments.
• Can process payments on your behalf.
• A good customs broker will update you on compliance changes, process the reports and data, and conduct audits after every shipment.

2. Shipment Documents

It’s impossible to conduct any kind of freight shipment in Canada without having complete paperwork. It’s good to compile all the paperwork needed to avoid getting in any type of trouble.

You will need to fill out a Bill of Lading and a Canadian Commercial Invoice (CCI) before your goods get cleared. A bill of lading (BOL) is a document that is similar to a receipt that has all the details of the goods and their destination.

Ensure that all you provide all the required information on both CCI and BOL, and your customs broker should also confirm if the documents are complete. Never let your freight move before the customs broker confirms these documents.

Having a Certificate of origin can be good too, but it’s not as essential as BOL and CCI.

3. Border Clearance

If you’ve got all your paperwork completed, border clearance should be the last thing to make your heart race. When your freight gets to the border, your customs broker will be required to send the paperwork to Canada Border Services Agency, and your consignment will be cleared electronically. After clearance, your shipment can now head to its destination.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Freight Shipping Methods in Canada

1. Cost

Choose a freight shipping method that abides by your budget. If you need your goods delivered fast, you can use air transport. Using flight cargo is also very safe for your goods.

2. Type of Goods

The kind of goods you’re shipping will determine the method to use. For perishable products, you will need to use specialized freight methods. You will also need a fast way of shipping to avoid damage to the goods.

3. Destination

If you want to ship goods to a shorter distance, choose a method that will be suitable for you. Road transport can be cost-friendly for shorter distances. Longer distances might require sea or flight shipping.

4. Weight

Larger commodities might need FTL freight services, and the smaller ones require LTL freight services. Knowing the weight of the commodities will help you choose the most suitable method.

Freight shipping in Canada isn’t as hard as people believe it to be. As long as you adhere to the set regulations, you’re good to go. Give all the necessary information concerning your freight and ensure that you choose the best customs broker to help you out.