With tightening borders, shipping to the USA from Canada can be a nightmare for anyone trying to ship their products there. Let FlagShip help, read our tips.
Items you are not allowed to ship into the USA from Canada in 2025
Expanding your business to the US market from Canada is exciting! However, before you get started shipping your amazing products south, understanding items you are not allowed to ship into the US is crucial. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces strict regulations to protect public safety, health, and the environment. A misstep here can lead to delays, returned shipments, and frustrated customers.
Items you are not allowed to ship into the US
Shipping your products from Canada to the US can be a great way to expand your business. But before you jump in, it’s important to understand what you can’t send across the border. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has strict rules to protect public safety, health, and the environment.
“The products CBP prevent from entering the United States are those that would injure community health, public safety, American workers, children, or domestic plant and animal life, or those that would defeat our national interests. Sometimes the products that cause injury, or have the potential to do so, may seem fairly innocent. But, as you will see from the material that follows, appearances can be deceiving.” – US CBP website.
Here’s a quick rundown of items you are not allowed to ship into the US:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Dangerous Items | Includes anything dangerous like explosives, flammable liquids, fireworks, and weapons (including firearms, ammunition, and even replica weapons). |
| Agricultural Products | Fresh fruits, vegetables, and some meats might need special permits or be banned to stop the spread of diseases. |
| Environmental Concerns | Certain plants, soil, and animal products that could introduce invasive species or diseases. This includes some types of wood or untreated lumber. |
| Intellectual Property Rights | Counterfeit goods, replicas of trademarked products, and anything that violates copyright laws. |
| Controlled Substances | Prescription drugs, illegal narcotics, and drug paraphernalia are strictly controlled substances. |
| Animal Welfare and Endangered Species | Exotic pets, animal parts like ivory, and some animal-based products. |
| Embargoes and Trade Restrictions | Items originating from countries with US embargoes or trade restrictions. |
Feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of US import regulations? Don’t worry! FlagShip is here to provide guidance and support.
Our team can help you:
- Understand customs procedures: We’ll provide information on the necessary documentation and processes.
- Identify potential issues: We’ll help you determine if your products fall under any restricted categories or require additional permits.
- Optimize your shipping strategy: We’ll offer tips to ensure smooth customs clearance and minimize delays.
Remember: While we can provide assistance, you are ultimately responsible for providing accurate product information and ensuring compliance with customs regulations.
By working together, we can navigate the customs clearance process efficiently and avoid any potential issues.
You could be saving on your shipping from Canada to the USA
If you’re not already a FlagShip customer, you could be missing out on some serious savings on your shipments to the US. With just a few clicks you can register for a free account and start comparing rates among leading couriers for services from Canada to the US!
Not sure items you are not allowed to ship into the US? Just ask!
Call 1-866-320-8383 or email at support@flagshipcompany.com
As a FlagShip customer, you never have to second-guess your shipping requirements. Our trained and certified customer service representatives are live every day from 8:00am – 5:00pm EST to help with all your questions about shipping from Canada to the US! Not a customer? Sign up for your free account to give us a try!
Helpful Links and Resources
- CBP guide for importing to the USA
- Step-by-step guide to exporting from Canada
- Frequently asked questions about import and export shipments
Stay connected with us for expert shipping tips, updates, and support: