Parcels arriving in Canada from abroad can attract duty and taxes. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) explains the basics. Rates and thresholds change, so check the CBSA page.

This guide is based on the public sources listed at the end. We have not tested the products or services mentioned.

This is a short reference page. The full guide is Customs, Duties and Import Taxes When You Buy from Abroad.

Duty and taxes

Duty and taxes apply to mail and courier imports unless exempt. Duty depends on the goods, their origin and their value in Canadian dollars.

GST, HST and PST

  • GST of 5% applies to imports, except goods worth CAD 20 or less.
  • Gifts from family or friends abroad worth CAD 60 or less are not charged GST.
  • HST (13%) replaces GST in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Prince Edward Island.
  • PST applies in British Columbia, Manitoba, Quebec and Saskatchewan. Alberta and the territories charge GST only.
  • Excise may apply to some goods.

Other points

The page says Canada imposes counter-tariffs on certain US goods starting 8 September 2026, with details on the CBSA site. The page does not mention courier handling fees, so ask the carrier what it charges before you accept delivery.

Higher courier thresholds for US and Mexico shipments under CUSMA are mentioned in a search summary only, which we have not verified, so we do not state them.

See our international shipping and customs guide and the Canada online shopping checklist.

Last checked: 15 October 2026. Sources: CBSA, duty and taxes on postal imports.