For goods shipped from Canada to the US, check the carrier’s and service’s customs-invoice requirements. A gift or an item not sold may still need a declaration and accurate value. Do not assume an exemption for a “small value”.
Prepare accurate information
Gather the precise product description, value, origin, party details and documents requested for the service. Check restrictions before paying. A classification suggestion does not replace validation of the declared information.
Gifts, returns and items not sold
Describe the actual shipment purpose and value under the applicable rules. Do not mark a sale as a gift or enter zero value solely because no payment occurs. Ask the carrier or broker for the appropriate document.
Separate invoice and export declaration
An exception to Canadian export reporting does not remove documents required for US import. Confirm obligations at each border separately.
Check before handover
Check consistency between the invoice, label and electronic data. Confirm required signatures or copies and retain the documents with tracking information.