Buying products from China can unlock better prices, more variety, and access to products you simply can’t find in Canada. But for many buyers, Canadian customs is the most confusing—and stressful—part of the process.
What taxes will you pay? Will there be duties? Can your package get stuck at the border?
This guide explains how Canadian customs works, what fees to expect, and how a purchasing agent like BuyFromChina.ca helps you avoid surprises.
1. What Happens When a Package Enters Canada?
When goods arrive in Canada from overseas, they are reviewed by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). CBSA determines:
- Whether the item is allowed into Canada
- The declared value of the goods
- Applicable duties
- Applicable taxes (GST/HST)
Only after this process is complete can your package be released for delivery.
2. Duties vs. Taxes: What’s the Difference?
This is one of the most common points of confusion.
✅ Taxes (GST / HST)
Almost all imported goods are subject to GST or HST, depending on your province:
- GST: 5%
- HST: Up to 15% (e.g. Ontario, Nova Scotia)
These taxes are typically based on product value, shipping cost, and insurance (if applicable).
✅ Duties
Duties are product-specific, not universal. They depend on product category, origin, and trade rules.
Some items have 0% duty, while others (like apparel) can have high duty rates.
3. Common Duty Rates (Examples)
| Product Type | Typical Duty Rate |
|---|---|
| Electronics | 0%–8% |
| Bags & accessories | 8%–18% |
| Clothing & shoes | 16%–20%+ |
| Toys & home goods | 0%–10% |
⚠️ These are estimates. CBSA has final authority.
This is why accurate product classification matters—and where mistakes often become expensive.
4. Declared Value: Why Accuracy Matters
CBSA uses the declared value to calculate duties and taxes.
- Under-declaring can result in delays, penalties, or seizure of goods.
- Over-declaring may cause you to overpay unnecessarily.
At BuyFromChina.ca, we aim for realistic, compliant declarations with proper descriptions to reduce audit risk and delays.
5. Brokerage Fees: The Hidden Cost Many Buyers Miss
If your package is cleared by a courier (e.g. DHL, UPS, FedEx), you may see brokerage fees added on top of duties and taxes. These fees are charged by the courier, not CBSA, and can be surprisingly high.
A good purchasing agent helps choose shipping methods wisely, avoid unnecessary brokerage costs, and consolidate packages to reduce fees.
6. Can Packages Get Stuck at Customs?
Yes—but usually for avoidable reasons:
- Missing or unclear invoices
- Incorrect product descriptions
- Restricted items
- Inconsistent declared values
Using a professional purchasing agent dramatically reduces this risk.
7. How BuyFromChina.ca Helps You Navigate Canadian Customs
Chinese marketplaces are not designed for Canadian buyers. Customs is where most DIY buyers run into trouble.
With BuyFromChina.ca, we help by:
- Reviewing product eligibility
- Preparing accurate customs documentation
- Declaring values responsibly
- Consolidating shipments
- Choosing Canada-friendly shipping routes
- Minimizing delays, surprises, and stress
You don’t need to understand customs law—we do it for you.
8. What You Should Expect as a Buyer in Canada
When importing goods from China, expect:
- GST/HST on almost all orders
- Possible duties depending on product type
- Faster clearance when documentation is accurate
- A smoother experience when using a purchasing agent
Customs is not something to fear—it’s something to prepare for correctly.
Final Thoughts
Canadian customs doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. With the right knowledge—and the right purchasing agent—you can import products confidently and legally.
If you’re in Canada and buying from China, BuyFromChina.ca is built to guide you through every step, from sourcing to customs clearance to final delivery.
