The economic ties between Italy and Canada are growing due to online e-commerce and the Canadian European Free Trade Agreement (CETA). Italy's is among Canada's largest trading partners with strong cultural, academic and interpersonal contacts.
There is a significant amount of other trade between the two countries as well, including trade in raw materials, electronics, and other manufactured products.Machinery and Equipment. Italy is well-known for its expertise in the production of high-quality machinery and equipment, Canadian consumers have a strong appetite for Italian food and fashion.
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Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general information only.
Understanding the Shipping Process from Canada to Italy
Required Documentation and Customs Regulations
Export Declaration:
Goods valued over $2,000 (or otherwise restricted) must be declared prior to export. Read more about the Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS).
Invoice for Customs:
All goods imported to Italy must be accompanied by an invoice for customs. Useful information explaining what is needed on an invoice for customs.
Import Permits and Declarations:
Before shipping to Italy, confirm the consignee has the necessary import permits.
Businesses in Italy must provide an EORI number: An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identification number assigned to businesses operating in Italy and other European Union countries. It is used to identify and track customs transactions and ensure that customs duties and taxes are paid correctly.
The EORI number exists out of two parts:
- the country code of the issuing Member State; followed by
- a code or number that is unique in the Member State
CETA certificate of origin for Canadian and Italian origin goods
Goods that qualify under the origin rules of the Canadian European Free Trade Agreement must be accompanied by a certificate of origin.
Verify in a certificate of origin is needed when shipping to Italy
Read More: Goods were shipped from Canada versus Canadian Origin goods
Prohibited and Restricted Items to Italy:
It's important to confirm the restrictions and regulations with Italy authorities prior to shipping. Goods that are prohibited or restricted from import to Italy include:
- Illegal drugs
- Counterfeit money and goods
- Hazardous waste
- Offensive materials (such as hate speech or propaganda promoting violence or discrimination)
- Endangered species of plants and animals (CITES protected species)
- Weapons and ammunition (unless proper permits are obtained)
- Pirated software, movies, and music
- Certain chemicals (such as those used in the production of illegal drugs)
- Pornography that is illegal under Italian law
- Tobacco products (only allowed in limited quantities for personal use)
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Shipping Time and Cost Considerations
Transit Time Estimates
The fastest transit time to Italy is 2 business days with most carriers. Economy air can take 3-5 business days. Ocean freight generally takes 1-2 months. Canada Post services generally are delivered within 1-2 weeks.
Shipping Cost Estimates to Italy
The cost of shipping to Italy depends on the size and weight of the shipments. Most carriers have online rate and transit times tools. Get a comparison shipping rate to Italy.
Benefits of Shipping to Italy from Canada
Cost-Effective Shipping Solutions
Competitive Shipping Rates
The cheapest way to ship a package to Italy is usually via Canada Post surface options. The cost for up to 4 pounds/ 2 kilograms averages around less than $40.
The cost to ship to Italy depends on the package size, weight and destination in Italy. The cost for up to 10 pounds/ 4 kilograms can be, for example, around $170 but depends on the level of discount with your carrier.
Canada's Free Trade Agreements
Canada has free trade agreements with most the world's leading economies, including European Union countries. Verify the benefits of Canada's free trade agreements.
Shipping Volume Discounts and Deals To Italy
Discounts be can obtained directly from the carriers. Often the best deal is using one of the carrier's partners or forwarders.
Canada Post has volume discount for high volume e-commerce volumes. Leading Canadian retailers and platforms can ship directly to Italy for the lowest cost.
Safe and Secure Delivery Services
Insured Shipping Services
Shipping insurance can be obtained directly from the carrier or via third parties. The most important part of insurance is packaging, documentation and packaging (yes, packaging is that important!).
Verify your goods are properly insured to Italy
Tracking and Monitoring of Shipments
All commercial carriers offer online tracking. A key benefit of using Jet Worldwide is getting "off line support" via a team member dedicated to the successful delivery of your shipment.
Popular Delivery Options for Shipping to Italy from Canada
Air Freight Shipping
Fast and Convenient for larger shipments. Our team can provide air freight quotes.
Sea Freight Shipping
Cost-Effective Shipping Option for large commercial orders and shipping containers. The major ocean ports in Italy include:
- Port of Genoa: This is the largest port in Italy
- Port of Trieste and Venice: Located on the northeastern coast
- Port of Livorno and La Spezia : On the western coast of Italy
Express Delivery Services
Shipping to Italy from Canada - Canada Post small packets and express options
- Small Packet Delivery to Italy: Surface, Air and "Tracked"
- International Parcel to Italy: Surface and "Xpresspost"
Shipping to Italy from Canada - FedEx, UPS and DHL
FedEx and UPS Canadian shipping options to Italy include:
- Priority Express Delivery to Italy
- Economy Express Delivery to Italy
Delivery to Italy from Canada via Jet Worldwide
Jet Worldwide: A trusted brand with best international shipping for over 40 years!
How to Choose the Best Shipping Company for Your Needs
Reputation and Experience of the Shipping Company
Reliable and Trustworthy Shipping Partners
All the carriers listed in the post are reliable and trustworthy. They include Kuhn and Nagel (freight), Canada Post, FedEx, DHL, UPS and their partners (such as Jet Worldwide... of course!)
Experienced and Professional Shipping Services
In addition to the major carriers, be aware of some websites that claim "over 50% savings" etc. While many of these sites do offer valid shipping options, most lack true international expertise and support.
Read our more detailed post regarding shipping to Italy from Canada
Shipping Services and Options Offered for e-commerce
Tailored Shipping Solutions
Jet's tailored solutions include delivery duty paid, e-commerce import and delivery via DPD, storage and logistics support. JetWorldwide.com/contact
