For many Canadians, a short two-hour shopping trip across the US border could mean a potential savings of hundreds of dollars. But with the current exchange rates, import rules and time required to plan and travel, is it worth the effort?
Should you bulk shop in the US as a Canadian?
Bulk shopping in the US requires thorough research and planning, not to mention time. You must be mindful of maximizing discounts and budgeting so you don’t surpass your import exemptions, while fluctuating exchange rates can eat into potential savings.
Some stores cater to Canadians with discounts if you show them proof of Canadian residency, while others offer incentives if you sign up for their newsletter or loyalty program. This will put valuable dollars back into your shopping budget.
Other times, Canadians bulk shop to a PO box from retailers that don’t ship to addresses outside of the US, while groceries and filling up your gas tank are typically not taxed when crossing the border.
Finally, for goods made in the US, Mexico or Canada entirely, with no labels indicating fabrication in another country, there are no duties on products imported for personal use, but they will still be taxed according to the items.
The best plan for bulk shopping is researching flyers on apps like Flipp, creating a spreadsheet and stacking savings by using coupons when possible. The more you can save, the more you can buy.
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What can you import back into Canada?
You must declare all goods coming back into Canada. This amount of duty-free import you’re allowed to return with is determined by the amount of time you’re in the US. You’ll be asked about the contents you’ve purchased and their value, plus receipts for customs evaluation. Amounts above the personal exemption will be charged duty.
- If you’ve been in the US for less than 24 hours, you will not have any exemption limits. Duties will be charged on all purchases
- For trips between 24 and 48 hours, you may return with up to CDN$200 without duty and taxes, and items must be with you upon import
- Trips above 48 hours can return with up to CDN$800, and you must have the items with you
- Trips above seven days have the same CDN$800 limit, but goods can arrive later (i.e. by mail, friend, relative, etc.). Alcohol and tobacco must be with you at the time of crossing
Tips for cross-border shopping
If you are looking to shop in the US, here are some practical tips on categories where you should start strategizing:
- Gas in your tank isn’t taxed and you can often find it cheaper in the US. It doesn’t come out of your limit
- Some states offer tax-free shopping on certain categories. For example, in Pennsylvania or Minnesota, you can shop tax-free for clothing and shoes. Outlet malls have bulk or two-for-one sales you can take advantage of
- Be a part of loyalty programs that often issue coupons to your emails. You can sometimes stack these coupons to buy multiple items or in bulk to realize the most savings on items you know you’ll need again
- Don’t just compare prices between US retailers. Do the conversions on items at Canadian stores, converted back to US dollars. Sometimes you’ll see savings, other times you won’t
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Bottom line
Bulk shopping in the US can provide variety at retailers you don’t have in Canada. Each trip requires planning, budgeting within a small window, the cost of gas, accommodations, toll fees and a challenging exchange rate. You can’t import fruits, vegetables, meat or animal by-products, so shop for those items locally. If you plan correctly, you can access some killer deals that you just can’t find in Canada.
Remember, many wholesale shops like Costco or Sam’s Club require memberships. Check to see if you need to apply before your trip, or if your Canadian membership is recognized in the US. Stores that sell their house-labeled items and don’t require memberships, Trader Joe’s or Aldi, will offer lower prices so you can purchase more for less.
Finally, weigh the total cost holistically. Consider the time, gas, toll bills and exchange rate to get the job done. Sometimes, it may be easier to shop at home.
