US De Minimis Rule Has Changed
The USA has withdrawn its 0 de minimis threshold. Most parcels entering the US are now subject to customs duties regardless of value. Budget for potential import charges at the recipient's end.
Send a Parcel to Canada & USA from the UK
Everything you need to know about sending a parcel from the UK to the USA and Canada — shipping costs, customs rules, prohibited items, and expert tips for transatlantic delivery.
Get a QuoteYour Guide to Sending a Parcel from the UK to the USA & Canada
Shipping across the Atlantic involves more than finding a good rate. This guide explains US and Canadian customs requirements, realistic transit times, packing for long-haul handling, and what to declare on your paperwork. Whether you are sending to New York, Toronto, Los Angeles, or Vancouver, we cover door-to-door delivery with rates from £6.50/kg (10kg minimum) or £5.95/kg for shipments over 20kg.
Things to Consider Before Sending a Parcel to the USA & Canada
Before you book your shipment, here are the key things every sender should know:
Minimum Weight Requirement
The minimum chargeable weight is 10kg. Shipments of 20kg or more benefit from a reduced rate. If your parcel is under 10kg, you will still be charged at the 10kg minimum.
Allow Time for Customs
US and Canadian customs can hold parcels for inspection, especially during peak shipping seasons like Black Friday and Christmas. Add buffer time for any time-sensitive deliveries.
Accurate Documentation is Critical
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) both require complete and accurate customs declarations. Incorrect or missing HS codes are a common cause of delays.
Pack Securely for Transatlantic Shipping
Transatlantic shipments go through significant handling. Use strong double-walled boxes, fill empty space with packing material to prevent shifting, and make sure the label is securely attached and readable.
Know What You Can and Cannot Send
The USA has specific restrictions on food imports (FDA regulated), and Canada has its own list of prohibited goods. Always check the CBP and CBSA prohibited items lists before packing, especially for food, cosmetics, and electronics.
Shipping Rates from the UK to the USA & Canada
Rates are based on actual or volumetric weight, whichever is greater. Use our volumetric weight calculator to check your parcel before booking.
Standard Rate
UK → USA & Canada
£6.50/kg
Minimum 10kg — Ideal for regular-sized shipments
Bulk Rate
UK → USA & Canada
£5.95/kg
Minimum 20kg — Better value for larger shipments
Understanding Customs for the USA & Canada
All parcels entering the United States and Canada pass through customs. Both countries have strict import controls and require accurate documentation. The USA in particular has recently updated its de minimis threshold — most shipments are now subject to customs duties regardless of value.
- All parcels require a completed customs declaration (CN22 or CN23).
- The USA has withdrawn its $800 de minimis threshold — most shipments are now liable for import duties.
- Personal gifts entering the USA valued under $100 may still qualify for duty-free entry if clearly labelled as gifts.
- Canada has a de minimis threshold of CAD $20 for duties and CAD $40 for taxes on gifts.
- A commercial invoice with HS codes is required for all commercial shipments to both countries.
- Ensure the recipient's full address including ZIP code (USA) or postal code (Canada) is correct.
Items Prohibited from Shipping to USA & Canada
The USA and Canada both have their own customs and border protection prohibited lists in addition to standard courier restrictions. Always verify before shipping.
✅ What You Can Send
- Clothing, textiles, and fashion accessories
- Books, documents, and printed materials
- Non-perishable food in original sealed packaging
- Cosmetics and personal care products (non-flammable)
- Electronics declared at full value
- Gifts and personal effects
❌ What You Cannot Send
- Firearms, weapons, and ammunition (strict US/Canada controls)
- Narcotics, cannabis, and controlled substances
- Counterfeit or trademark-infringing goods
- Perishable food and live animals
- Flammable liquids, aerosols, and perfumes
- Lithium batteries (standalone, uninstalled)
- Native American artifacts (USA restriction)
- Cash, cheques, and negotiable instruments
If you are unsure whether your item can be shipped, please contact our support team before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions — UK to USA & Canada
Transit times to the USA typically range from 5 to 10 working days depending on the destination state and customs clearance speed. Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are usually on the faster end.
Delivery to Canada typically takes 7 to 12 working days. Eastern provinces like Ontario and Quebec tend to receive parcels faster than western or northern regions. Customs clearance can add additional time.
Likely yes. The USA has withdrawn its $800 de minimis threshold, meaning most shipments are now subject to import duties. Personal gifts under $100 may still qualify for duty-free entry. The recipient is responsible for paying any customs charges.
The minimum chargeable weight is 10kg at £6.50/kg. For shipments of 20kg or more, a better rate of £5.95/kg applies. If your parcel weighs less than 10kg, it will be charged at the 10kg minimum.
Non-perishable, commercially sealed food items can generally be sent. However, the USA has strict FDA regulations on food imports — items must be in original sealed packaging with all ingredients listed. Homemade or perishable food cannot be sent.
Yes. All shipments include full tracking from collection in the UK to delivery in the USA or Canada. You will receive a tracking number by email once your parcel is collected, which can be used on our Track Shipment page.
For personal shipments, a customs declaration form is sufficient. For commercial goods, a commercial invoice with product descriptions, HS codes, declared value, and country of origin is required by US Customs and Border Protection.