Canada Post includes up to CAD100 liability coverage with domestic Priority, Xpresspost and Expedited Parcel. Regular Parcel requires purchase of the initial coverage. Xpresspost Certified excludes it. Coverage is subject to the selected service’s terms and is not an automatic reimbursement.
What Canada Post covers
Check the purchased service: domestic Priority, Xpresspost and Expedited Parcel include initial liability coverage; Regular Parcel does not. Additional protection and exclusions depend on the service and contents.
| Item | How it works |
|---|---|
| Included coverage | Service-specific; Regular Parcel requires purchase |
| Additional coverage | Bought based on declared value, in increments |
| Declared value | Sets the payout ceiling, not an automatic guarantee |
| Exclusions | Inadequate packaging, prohibited items, certain categories |
Declared value vs insurance
These are two different things. Declared value tells the carrier what the contents are worth and sets the maximum it might pay out. Insurance (coverage) is what makes that amount claimable if the parcel is lost or damaged, subject to conditions. Declaring a value without enough coverage can limit your payout.
How to file a claim
- Keep the receipt and tracking number.
- Keep proof of value (invoice, purchase receipt).
- Keep the packaging and photos of the damage.
- File the claim within the time window the service allows.
Compare coverage AND price
Included coverage, limits, and the cost of additional insurance vary by carrier. For a valuable shipment, compare not just the rate but what each carrier actually covers.
Compare the price and coverage terms of the selected service. Confirm additional protection was actually purchased and retain proof; entering a customs value is not sufficient.