Shipping Between the US and Canada: What Accessorial Charges Should You Expect?

Charges depend on the carrier, shipment, route, service level and delivery requirements. Request a quote identifying known extras and potential additional fees.

Common Accessorial Charges When Shipping Between US and Canada

Review these US-Canada freight shipping charges before accepting a rate; not all will apply.

• Fuel Surcharge

A fuel surcharge adjusts pricing for fuel costs, often using a percentage linked to a published fuel index.

For example, FedEx Freight publishes weekly adjustments for its intra-Canada services; cross-border pricing must be checked against the applicable service rules. Ask whether fuel is included, which charges it applies to, and whether the amount can change before pickup.

• Border Crossing or Cross-Border Processing Charges

Some arrangements include a carrier charge for cross-border processing or handling freight moving under customs control. This is distinct from the fee for preparing a customs entry.

Ask whether border-related transportation charges are included. There is no universal border fee applying identically to every shipment.

• Customs Clearance Fees

Customs brokerage fees can cover preparing release and accounting information and handling related customs transactions. They are separate from transportation charges and from government duties or taxes.

The Canada Border Services Agency explains that brokerage fees are a private transaction between the broker and client. Requirements depend on the goods, direction of travel and import circumstances. Confirm the clearance arrangement and who pays each cost before booking.

• Documentation Fees

Providers may charge for document preparation, amendments or additional processing. Routine documentation support may also be included, so ask which activities trigger a fee.

Use consistent information across the commercial invoice and bill of lading. For Canadian imports, CBSA invoice guidance requires accurate information about the parties, goods, quantities and value, with additional required details supplied as applicable. Incomplete information can delay release.

Delivery Accessorials: Liftgate, Residential & Special Handling Charges

Check pickup and delivery conditions at both ends of the journey.

• Liftgate Service

A liftgate is a powered platform that moves freight between the truck bed and ground level. It may be needed when a location lacks a suitable loading dock or forklift.

Disclose the requirement when requesting a quote, including whether it applies at pickup, delivery or both. Confirm that the pallet’s size and weight suit the equipment. Liftgate service does not automatically include moving freight inside a building.

• Residential Delivery

Residential addresses may involve restricted truck access and different unloading arrangements. A business operating from a home may still be classified as residential under the carrier’s rules.

Identify the address accurately. A residential fee and a liftgate fee may both apply; requesting one does not automatically cover the other.

• Other Special Handling Requirements

Additional charges may arise for:

• Limited-access locations: Construction sites, schools, secure facilities or other sites covered by the carrier’s definition.
• Appointment delivery: Scheduled receiving arrangements or a specific delivery window, depending on the service rules.
• Re-delivery or failed delivery: Another trip when delivery cannot be completed; storage or waiting charges may also apply.
• Unusual freight: Oversized, very heavy, non-stackable or difficult-to-handle items requiring additional space or equipment.

Confirm availability and pricing for your handling requirements.

How Much Can Accessorial Charges Add to a Cross-Border Shipment?

There is no reliable universal amount. Fees may be flat charges, percentages, weight-based amounts or time-based charges, depending on the carrier and service.

Costs depend on:

• Origin, destination and route.
• Shipment dimensions, weight and freight class, where applicable.
• Service level and handling requirements.
• Pickup and delivery location types.
• Border-processing and documentation requirements.
• Carrier pricing rules and fuel pricing.

Compare total expected transportation cost: base freight + applicable fuel + known transportation accessorials. Then identify separately any customs brokerage, duties, taxes or other import costs needed for your broader landed-cost budget.

For example, a lower base rate excluding required liftgate service may exceed a higher quote that includes it. Compare equivalent services, the same currency and the same shipment assumptions.

How to Avoid Unexpected Freight Charges When Shipping Between the US and Canada

1. Provide accurate weight and dimensions. Measure the packaged freight, including pallets and overhang. Incorrect details can prompt reweighing or rating adjustments.
2. Identify commercial versus residential locations. Include access restrictions and receiving hours at both ends.
3. State liftgate requirements. Check unloading equipment with the receiver before assuming dock delivery is possible.
4. Provide complete shipment and customs documentation. Check descriptions, quantities, values and relevant origin information for consistency.
5. Ask which accessorial charges may apply. Request the triggers for waiting, storage, appointment and re-delivery charges.
6. Compare total expected transportation costs. Use identical service requirements when evaluating each cross-border freight quote.
7. Confirm inclusions and exclusions before booking. Keep written confirmation of charges, quote validity, currency and payment responsibilities.

Accurate information reduces avoidable adjustments, but cannot prevent every unforeseen charge.

What Information Do You Need for an Accurate US–Canada Freight Quote?

Have the following ready when requesting a Canada US freight quote: