Avoiding UPS Brokerage Fees in Canada: A Fast & Reliable Shipping Solution

Avoiding UPS Brokerage Fees in Canada: A Fast & Reliable Shipping Solution

Please visit this Blog for step-by-step instructions

We have received feedback from Canadian customers, the following method can be use to avoid paying brokerage fees with Canada Post, DHL, UPS or any other carrier:

The process is actually much simpler than most people think:

1. Once the package has arrived in Canada, wait for delivery or pickup notification.
2. If it’s being delivered to your door, refuse the package so it gets held at the carrier’s depot.
3. Go to your local CBSA office with the following:
• A full receipt that includes both the item details and tracking number (or preferably the waybill).
• Your government-issued ID.
• Pay the required taxes, and CBSA will provide you with a B15 form.
4. Take the B15 form to the carrier (Canada Post, UPS, FedEx, etc.), and they must release your package without charging extra brokerage or handling fees.

That’s it. There’s no need to contact the carrier beforehand or request any special forms from them—just having the correct documentation is enough.

• The best approach is to bring a full receipt that includes both the item details and tracking number once the item arrives in Canada.

• If you provide a waybill, that also helps, but you should be able to self-declare with just a printed receipt that had the tracking number.
Here you can find your local CBSA offices: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/do-rb/menu-eng.html
If you’re unsure about a location offering self-declaration:
1. Call ahead and ask:
“Can I come in to self-declare and obtain a B15 for a package shipped via Canada Post (or a courier)?”
2. Mention “Casual Goods Accounting” (which is the official term for personal declarations).
3. Ask for their process—some offices might have different requirements for documentation.

When shopping from the U.S., Canadian customers often face a tough decision: use USPS/Globegistics for cheaper shipping, but endure long delivery times and possible delays due to postal strikes, or choose UPS for faster service—but with the downside of high brokerage fees. The good news is, there’s a way to enjoy the speed and reliability of UPS without the hefty brokerage charges.

How to Avoid UPS Brokerage Fees with Self-Clearance

By opting for self-clearance, you can bypass UPS’s brokerage fees while still benefiting from their quick delivery service. Self-clearance allows you to handle the customs clearance process on your own, directly with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), instead of letting UPS manage it for you.

To get started, follow these simple steps:

  1. Track Your UPS Package – When your package reaches Canada, track it through UPS to get the details of its arrival.
  2. Request Self-Clearance – Contact UPS and inform them that you want to clear the package through CBSA yourself.
  3. Pay Duties and Taxes – You’ll be required to pay applicable duties and taxes directly to CBSA, often through their online system.
  4. Clear Customs – Once your payment is processed, you’ll receive clearance, and your package will be released for delivery.

By taking control of the customs process, you can save significantly on brokerage fees and still receive your package in a timely manner.

Why This Matters for Our Canadian Customers

For customers ordering from us, this method offers the best of both worlds—reliable and fast shipping with UPS, while avoiding unnecessary fees. The cost savings can be substantial, especially for larger or more expensive shipments.

We understand that while USPS/Globegistics might be appealing due to lower fees, the delays they sometimes cause (especially during strikes) can be frustrating. By leveraging UPS's fast service and taking charge of the customs process, you can ensure quicker deliveries without the stress of unpredictable shipping timelines or inflated brokerage costs.

Conclusion

Self-clearance is a powerful tool for Canadian shoppers who want the benefits of UPS shipping but without the costly brokerage fees. With a little extra effort, you can streamline your deliveries and save money.

For more details on how to clear your UPS shipment through customs, check out this step-by-step guide.

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