What this article covers
This is a plain-language introduction to customs for merchants shipping from Canada to the US or internationally for the first time. If you have never filled out a customs declaration or heard the term "HS code," start here.
Customs for Beginners
New to international shipping? Learn the basics of customs declarations, HS codes, duties, and what you need to know before your first cross-border shipment.
Why customs matters
Every package that crosses an international border goes through customs. The customs authority in the destination country checks what is in the package, where it was made, and how much it is worth. If the information you provide is wrong or missing, your package can be delayed, returned, or seized. Accurate customs data protects your shipments and keeps your customers happy.
Key terms you need to know
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Customs declaration | The information you provide about what is in the package — description, value, quantity, and country of origin. This travels with every international shipment. |
| HS code | A 6–10 digit number that classifies your product for tariff purposes. Every product category has one. Stallion helps you find the right code when you set up your products. |
| Duty | A tax charged by the destination country on imported goods. The amount depends on the HS code, product value, and any trade agreements between the origin and destination countries. |
| DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) | A shipping arrangement where the shipper pays duties upfront so the recipient does not have to pay anything at delivery. All US shipments through Stallion are DDP. |
| Country of origin | Where the product was manufactured — not where you are shipping from. This is required on every international shipment. If you leave it blank, carriers may default to China, which can result in higher duties. |
| CUSMA | The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (also called USMCA). Qualifying goods shipped between these three countries may have reduced or zero duties. See CUSMA Certification for details. |
What you need for your first international shipment
Before you create your first cross-border shipment, make sure you have the following ready for each product:
- A product description in plain English — for example, "cotton t-shirt" or "ceramic coffee mug," not "SKU-12345" or "item A"
- The HS code for each product — search in the Products section or contact Stallion for help
- The declared value in the currency of the sale — this is the price your customer actually paid
- The country where the product was manufactured — not your warehouse location, but where the item was originally made
- Manufacturer name and address — required for DDP shipments to the US; you can enter and verify this in your product catalog
Setting up your products correctly in advance means Stallion can auto-fill customs details on every shipment. See Product Management for a walkthrough.
Common beginner mistakes
Declaring items as "gift" to avoid duties. This is customs fraud. Customs authorities audit shipments, and packages flagged as gifts with commercial quantities can be seized and result in penalties for your account.
Using vague descriptions like "merchandise" or "samples." Customs officers need to know exactly what is in the package. Be specific — "stainless steel water bottle" is far better than "product."
Omitting country of origin. If you leave this blank, the carrier will assign one on your behalf. The default is often China, which may trigger higher duty rates than the actual origin country.
Undervaluing items. Declaring a lower value than what the customer paid may seem like a way to reduce duties, but customs authorities cross-reference commercial invoices. Audits can result in fines, shipment holds, and account restrictions.
Good to know: Stallion handles most customs paperwork automatically when you fill in your product catalog correctly. Spend time setting up your products with accurate HS codes and manufacturer info — it saves time on every shipment after that.
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