Importing and Exporting of Goods

All inbound and outbound international shipments for the University of Winnipeg must be processed through Canada Customs. To ensure proper clearance, all shipments are directed to the University’s Customs Broker. Shipments not addressed to the broker may be rejected by Canada Customs and returned to the sender. When the University of Winnipeg is the Importer of Record, the shipping label must include a purchase order number or VISA reference number, as well as a University contact.

Items sent from other countries are not “free,” even if labeled as such. While the University is duty-exempt for goods used directly in teaching or research, GST, brokerage fees, and other import-related charges always apply. A modest brokerage fee is charged on every order, and additional charges—such as freight handling fees—may also apply. Only the University’s contracted broker is authorized to clear shipments on our behalf.

Personal items and gifts must not be shipped to the University. Such shipments will incur additional taxes, duty, and fees, all of which will be charged to the individual. Declaring an artificially low value (e.g., $1.00) does not avoid charges; Canada Customs may issue penalties for inaccurate declarations. Purchasing Services is required to correct misdeclared values and works directly with Canada Customs on any questionable shipment. In the event of a customs audit, Purchasing Services must provide all purchase orders, invoices, and related documentation for international shipments addressed to the University.

All outgoing U.S. shipments—including returns, repairs, and warranty work—must be processed through Shipping/Receiving to ensure proper documentation and to avoid unnecessary charges. For repairs and warranty items, GST applies to the repair value only; brokerage fees always apply.

Important note: Effective August 29, 2025 the United States requires all packages entering the US to have duties prepaid. You will be required to complete a declaration and provide payment prior to shipping.

If you have any further questions or concerns regarding international shipments, Canada Customs or brokerage fees, please email Purchasing Services.