Is shipping from Canada to the US delayed?

The Border Blues: Why Your Canadian Package to the US is Taking Longer Than Expected

For Canadians sending packages south of the border, a familiar frustration is brewing: delays. It’s not just a seasonal backlog or a logistical hiccup; the culprit appears to be a combination of factors, primarily stemming from new U.S. tariffs and subsequent adjustments to import procedures. If you’ve been wondering why your cross-border shipments are languishing, you’re not alone.

The most significant contributor to this delay is the implementation of new tariffs by the United States on specific Canadian goods. These tariffs, while intended to protect domestic industries in the U.S., have had a ripple effect on the entire shipping process. The increased scrutiny required to assess and apply these tariffs at the border has demonstrably slowed down the movement of goods.

This increased scrutiny translates to more complex paperwork, more frequent inspections, and a general bottleneck at border crossings. Customs officials are diligently working to enforce the new regulations, but the sheer volume of shipments coupled with the intricate procedures is inevitably creating delays.

Adding fuel to the fire, major shipping carriers like UPS are acknowledging the difficulties by taking proactive measures. As of February 4th, 2025, UPS suspended their Service Guarantee for all packages shipped from Canada to the United States. This suspension, which remains in effect until further notice, essentially means that estimated delivery times are no longer guaranteed. While UPS is still committed to delivering packages as quickly as possible, customers should anticipate potential delays without recourse to refunds based on the original estimated arrival date.

What does this mean for you, the sender?

• Plan Ahead: Allow extra time for your shipments to arrive. Don’t expect next-day delivery; a more realistic timeframe is crucial, especially if the package contains time-sensitive items.
• Double-Check Paperwork: Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete. Missing or inaccurate information can significantly increase the likelihood of delays at the border.
• Track Your Package: Utilize tracking services offered by the shipping carrier to monitor the progress of your shipment. This will give you a better understanding of potential delays and allow you to proactively address any issues that may arise.
• Contact Customer Service: If you encounter excessive delays or have concerns about your shipment, don’t hesitate to contact the shipping carrier’s customer service department. They may be able to provide more specific information about the status of your package.
• Consider Alternative Shipping Options: While UPS’s Service Guarantee is suspended, other carriers might have different policies or routes that could potentially offer slightly faster delivery times. Researching alternative options may be worthwhile.

While the current situation presents challenges, it’s important to remember that this is likely a temporary adjustment period. As customs officials and shipping carriers adapt to the new tariff landscape, we can expect to see improvements in processing times. In the meantime, patience and proactive planning are key to navigating the “border blues” and ensuring your packages eventually reach their destination south of the border. Keep an eye on official announcements from shipping companies and government agencies for updates on the situation. The shipping landscape is constantly evolving, and staying informed is the best way to avoid unnecessary frustration.