MenuMenu
- Compare. Save. Ship.
- Main Menu
- How It Works?
- Shipping Services
- eCommerce
- Learn
Navigating the shipping landscape in Canada can be a challenge for new online entrepreneurs and small business owners. With a vast array of options, each carrier comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks—and having a sense of the best shipping companies in Canada is critical to making the best choices for your business.
The key is to find a balance that fits your business needs. Some carriers provide significant discounts for high-volume shippers, others excel at quick local deliveries, and some specialize in reliable international shipping.
Each carrier can help your business, albeit in a different way. Let’s take a look at the best shipping companies in Canada and see what each can do for your business.
Small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) ship from a few dozen packages to thousands of parcels a day, and ultimately, that translates to different shipping companies being the best options. Let’s take a look at a few of the most popular below.
Canada Post, a federal government-owned corporation, stands out as one of the largest shipping companies in the country. Offering both domestic and international shipping services, they provide competitive pricing that appeals to many businesses.
With a robust and easy-to-use tracking system, Canada Post ensures that you can monitor your shipments, including those headed to the U.S., where USPS tracking picks up seamlessly. This visibility helps maintain customer satisfaction throughout the delivery process.
Known for its cost-effective domestic shipping, Canada Post excels in reaching even the most remote areas of Canada. Their diverse services cater to a wide range of needs, from standard letter mail to express parcel delivery. Embracing innovations in e-commerce, Canada Post supports digital logistics, enhancing the online shopping experience for businesses and their customers.
While international rates can be higher, their comprehensive shipping services in Canada and reliable delivery make Canada Post a trusted partner for shipping needs.
For example, shipping a 8-pound package, measuring 8 inches on all sides, with 4-day shipping from Toronto to Pittsburgh can range from around $38, with tracking and delivery confirmation, or just over $60 with tracking, delivery confirmation, a guaranteed arrival date and the option for signature collection. These rates have stayed consistent since 2023.
Sending a package with the same dimensions domestically, however, from Toronto to Vancouver with Regular Parcel, can run from just over $30 with a 7-day delivery window (and the added bonus of being carbon neutral fuel-efficient). More pricey options, like Priority, can cost just over $100 for 1-day shipping. Likewise, these rates have stayed consistent since 2023.
Canada Post remains at the top of the Canadian shipping companies list because of its excellent coverage, reliability, efficiency, and shipping rates for national shipments.
UPS is still the largest package delivery company in the world. With more than 200 nations and territories served, UPS delivers about 5.7 billion packages per year.
UPS provides accessibility to international shipping and logistics solutions, leveraging its global network. They offer competitive rates for domestic and U.S. shipping, with fast delivery times. Their advanced tracking systems and online tools provide real-time shipment monitoring, giving customers full visibility over their packages.
UPS remains a reliable choice for many businesses, offering customized logistics solutions to address unique shipping needs efficiently.
Shipping a package of similar dimensions internationally, from Toronto to Pittsburgh, can run as cheap as $30, with delivery time in a little less than a week. The fastest option, UPS Express Early to the US, arriving within less than a day, costs around $250.
For one of the leading Canadian shipping companies on this list, these rates have only increased slightly since last year.
Source: Pexels
FedEx is a shipping company founded in the US that’s internationally renowned for its overnight shipping services. TKnown for providing real-time delivery updates, FedEx ensures you always have accurate information about your shipment..
FedEx is a great option for businesses that rely on international shipping. The company provides swift, reliable, and efficient deliveries, albeit at slightly more expensive costs. However, when it comes to shipping for small businesses, FedEx’s services are well worth the extra costs.
FedEx also offers overnight shipping in Canada, though it can be expensive. If this is the option you need, make sure to check out FedEx’s First Overnight. They also offer user-friendly return management strategies and tools like FedEx® Delivery Manager for scheduling and tracking incoming packages
Purolator has one of the most extensive national delivery networks in Canada. They offer same-day and next-day delivery services that are second to none, guaranteeing that your package will reach its destination by a certain day and time.
Purolator also offers international shipping, but it relies on UPS to deliver the package from the Canadian border to its destination. However, this process works seamlessly and it doesn’t affect the end client in any way.
Thanks to its extensive national network and efficient deliveries, Purolator is a great choice for businesses that focus on domestic shipping.
DHL Express is an international shipping company that was founded in the United States. Even though the company doesn’t have an extensive network in Canada or the US, its international network is considered one of the best in the world.
DHL Express offers highly competitive international shipping rates and provides swift, reliable international deliveries.
This shipping company can be a great option for businesses that ship internationally, especially for those that regularly ship to Asia, Africa, or Europe.
Canpar is a national shipping company with over 62 hubs in Canada. The company specializes in ground deliveries, but they also provide international shipping services.
This shipping company offers expedited service from Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver to the continental US, guaranteeing that the shipment will reach its destination on time.
Canpar can be a good option for Canadian businesses that frequently ship across the border to the US.
Source: Pexels
Now that you have a snapshot of some of the leading shipping companies in Canada, let’s address some of the most common comparison questions.
Among the shipping companies in Canada, Canada Post emerges as the best choice for shipping across the country.
Canada Post is a time-tested, government-owned entity that provides exceptional services across the nation. It boasts an extensive network of offices and a well-integrated logistics infrastructure, ensuring that packages reach even the most remote corners of Canada.
With a proven track record of delivering parcels on time and in good condition, Canada Post has built a solid reputation for reliability and efficiency.
What sets Canada Post apart is its competitive pricing structure. Offering affordable rates for both individuals and businesses, it caters to a wide range of shipping needs without compromising on service quality.
Canada Post also provides an array of delivery options, such as Xpresspost, Expedited Parcel, and Priority, allowing customers to choose the best fit for their requirements. The company's user-friendly online platform allows for easy parcel tracking, streamlined shipment management, and convenient scheduling of pickups.
Did you know…  Source: Transports Canada |
Purolator stands out as the best logistics company, offering top-notch services for businesses and individuals. Purolator has grown to become a leading integrated freight, package, and logistics solutions provider, with a strong focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences.
The company's state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology, and well-maintained fleet of vehicles contribute to its seamless operations, allowing it to cater to customer demand.
One of the key factors that set Purolator apart from its competitors is its commitment to innovation. By investing in cutting-edge technologies and adopting eco-friendly practices, the company continually enhances its services and minimizes its environmental footprint. This forward-thinking approach has earned Purolator numerous industry awards and accolades.
As one of the top logistics companies in Canada, Purolator offers unparalleled customer support. With a team of dedicated professionals, the company addresses clients' concerns and provides tailored solutions to meet their specific requirements.
The most affordable option is Canada Post's Regular Parcel service. This service caters to businesses looking to ship non-urgent items at a budget-friendly rate.
Source: Pexels
With delivery times ranging from 2 to 9 business days, Regular Parcel offers a balance between cost and efficiency.
To save even more, consider consolidating multiple items into a single package or using flat-rate shipping boxes. Preparing your shipment with accurate weight and dimensions, and utilizing online tools for label printing and scheduling pickups can also help reduce shipping costs.
Canada Post is the most widely used shipping company in the country, serving as the primary postal operator for businesses.
As a government-owned corporation, it boasts a comprehensive network of offices and delivery services across Canada, reaching even the most remote locations. Its extensive range of shipping options, competitive pricing, and dependable services make it the go-to choice for Canadians.
For small businesses in Canada, Purolator is an excellent shipping company to consider. Known for its efficient and reliable shipping solutions.
Their range of shipping options, including same-day, next-day, and ground delivery, allows small businesses to find the perfect balance between cost and speed. By offering a user-friendly online platform, Purolator makes it easy to schedule pickups, track shipments, and manage logistics.
Additionally, their strong customer support system ensures that any issues are promptly addressed, making Purolator one of the best shipping companies in Canada.
When it comes to the leading drop shipping companies in Canada, SaleHoo stands out as the best company to partner with.
SaleHoo is a reputable platform that connects online retailers with a vast network of verified suppliers, including those based in Canada. Their comprehensive directory features over 8,000 trusted wholesalers and dropshippers, ensuring a wide variety of products for businesses to choose from.
With a strong focus on market research and analytics, SaleHoo helps entrepreneurs identify profitable niches and trending products.
MVS Canada Logistics is one of the best car shipping companies in Canada. With over 20 years of experience, MVS Canada offers reliable and professional vehicle transportation services nationwide. They specialize in shipping cars, trucks, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles through various methods, including open and enclosed carriers, as well as rail transportation.
MVS Canada Logistics is one of the best car shipping companies in Canada. With over 20 years of experience, MVS Canada offers reliable and professional vehicle transportation services nationwide. They specialize in shipping cars, trucks, motorcycles, and recreational vehicles through various methods, including open and enclosed carriers, as well as rail transportation.
If you’re looking for a reliable partner, Darwynn stands out as a top choice. Darwynn’s services include Business to Business and Business to Client solutions, inventory management, return handling, warehousing, last-mile delivery, and kitting.
Darwynn offers cutting-edge fulfillment solutions tailored to businesses of all sizes. Their unique pricing model eliminates inbound fees and processing costs for standardized packaging, which can significantly reduce your expenses. They excel in optimizing local-to-local delivery and provide nationwide access without monthly minimums.
Consider Ship Expert's speedy services for final mile delivery. Save up to 70% with pre-negotiated, discounted rates and multiple carrier options. Track your shipments in real time with an easy-to-read dashboard and choose the best carrier for each parcel without volume commitments.
Plus, ensure timely deliveries with next-day GTA delivery and expedited Air Canada services. You can also streamline your shipping process with integration to platforms like Shopify, Woo, and Magento, and enjoy personalized customer service that handles carrier issues on your behalf.
Save up to 70% on shipping when you work with Ship Expert. We negotiate on behalf of small- to medium-sized businesses just like yours with the big carriers to get the guaranteed lowest shipping costs, every time.
Rate shop from multiple shipping companies, and easily integrate your e-commerce platforms—making doing business easier than ever.
Interested in learning more? Compare shipping rates today.
Director, Ship Expert
Greg Woo is a seasoned expert in the logistics and distribution industry, with a career spanning over two decades. He has a comprehensive understanding of shipping and distribution needs, and has extensive experience integrating with e-commerce stores as well as customer specific WMS (warehouse management systems) and ERP’s (enterprise resource planning software). His tenure in the industry and established courier and LTL partnerships have allowed clients to benefit from reduced shipping expenses, as well as improved operations through software and specialized integrations.
Greg is currently the Director at Ship Expert Inc., a role he has held since February 2015. Prior to his role at Ship Expert, Greg held significant positions at Juxto, a telecommunications and managed internet service provider.
