In a new Practical Ecommerce article, ePost Global’s Vice President of Strategic Sales and Administration, Helaine Rich, discussed how ongoing trade tensions, postal strikes, and shifting tax policies are reshaping cross-border shipping between the U.S. and Canada this holiday season.
Trade Tensions Are Disrupting U.S.–Canada Ecommerce
Rich noted that recent tariff negotiations and reciprocal surtaxes “up to 25%” have disrupted ecommerce shipment volumes. As uncertainty grows, some Canadian consumers are actively avoiding U.S. brands.
“The current administration really took a look at what countries are asking to pay when we’re shipping into their countries,” she explained. “They also examined what’s being charged as a premium on U.S. goods.”
She also pointed to widespread frustration around surprise duties at delivery.
“Nothing is more frustrating than thinking you paid for a product,” Rich said, “and then getting surprised at the door with additional duties and fees.”
Shipping Disruptions Force Sellers to Rethink Strategy
Canada Post’s ongoing labor strikes amplify these challenges. Together, these factors push U.S. sellers to reassess their cross-border strategies.
Rich emphasized the importance of modeling total landed costs upfront. She also stressed the need for greater pricing transparency to reduce checkout friction and abandoned carts. Proactive planning around fulfillment and compliance, she added, can help merchants maintain service levels while protecting margins during peak-season volatility.
Why Canada Still Makes Sense for U.S. Sellers
Despite the hurdles, Canada remains a valuable growth market for American ecommerce retailers. Its geographic proximity, similar consumer behavior, and large English-speaking population continue to make it attractive.
Rich noted that flexibility, clear customer communication, and operational readiness are becoming competitive advantages in cross-border commerce. With the right pricing strategy and delivery partners in place, U.S. brands can continue to serve Canadian customers reliably, even during periods of disruption.
