Canada Post has been collecting duties and taxes on behalf of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for many years, and is compensated for this service through a handling fee charged to customers. As of August 18, 2012, this handling fee will rise from $8.50 to $9.95 for all mail that has been assessed with import duties and/or taxes by CBSA.

Canada Post is mandated to be financially self-sufficient and therefore must ensure that we reflect the true costs in providing products and services. Despite this change, Canada Post still offers the most competitive all-in price for international parcel shipments.

Items that clear Customs before August 18 will be subject to the current rate; items clearing Customs as of August 18 will be subject to the $9.95 handling fee.