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Who Needs to Complete The Paperwork for Customs?

Canadian passport and customs paperwork on a table, illustrating the documents required for completing customs clearance in international shipping.

Who Needs to Complete The Paperwork for Customs?

When you’re shipping internationally from Canada, there are many things to consider. From whether to ship by air or ocean freight, the best way to pack your items, and scheduling your shipments, the whole process can seem overwhelming—which is exactly why we are here to help.

One of the most stressful and complex issues associated with international shipping is dealing with customs paperwork and other documentation. In addition to making sure your furniture, vehicles, or household items arrive safely and on time, you’ll want to be absolutely certain that all legal and documentation requirements are being met.

Luckily, you don’t have to be the one to deal with filling out customs paperwork—we can, instead! Our team of experienced experts are up to date with all the latest customs paperwork requirements and are ready to handle the process with confidence and accuracy.

What Paperwork Is Required at the Departure Port

There are several different times during the shipping process that will require paperwork, including when your items arrive at the departure port. When shipping internationally from Vancouver (or any other Canadian port), a Canadian Automated Export Declaration (CAED) is required.

The CAED makes the process smoother by advising agents on what you are shipping out (a process that used to have to be done manually). Even better? We will complete this documentation on your behalf, so you don’t have to worry about it at all!

What Happens When Your Items Reach Their Destination

The customs paperwork process doesn’t end once your items have been shipped. Whether or not you choose to ship by ocean or air freight, there will be more customs paperwork to complete when your shipment arrives.

What paperwork is required depends on the location, as well as what types of items you are shipping. Every country has their own international shipping process and customs paperwork that is required (and we can help you sort through any and all requirements).

Also, whoever picks up the shipment will be responsible for completing the paperwork, as well as any associated fees (such as storage, arrival port fees, etc.). We’ll make certain to speak with our partners about any fees on both ends—that way, you can be certain you are getting an accurate and complete price quote.

Ship With Confidence—To Nearly Anywhere In the World

Whether you’re shipping to international clients, preparing for a long trip overseas, or making an exciting move to a new country, you’ll want to be sure your important items get where you need them to go—and properly handling customs paperwork is a major part of that.

When you work with us, you can trust in our experience, vast network, and commitment to honesty and transparency. When we take the stress of complex customs paperwork off your shoulders, you can be free from stressing about forms and legal requirements—and freer to focus on the fun of the adventure ahead of you instead.


The best way to get help is by talking to an expert. With years of experience under our belt, World Cargo is well-equipped to tackle any challenge and find solutions that fit your needs. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through the complexities of logistics. Contact us today, we can help you understand shipping.