Moving freight from Ontario into the U.S. is routine — but a border crossing is a document checkpoint, and most delays come from paperwork that doesn’t line up, not from the queue. This is a plain-language checklist, not legal or customs advice; your customs broker is the authority on your specific commodity.
Who does what
- The shipper/importer provides accurate commercial documents and arranges a customs broker.
- The customs broker files the entry and handles duties and classification.
- The carrier (us) presents the freight and the carrier-side documents at the border, and coordinates timing so the entry is ready when the truck arrives.
The documents a load generally needs
- Commercial invoice — accurate value, description, quantity, and country of origin.
- Packing list — what’s physically on the truck, matching the invoice.
- Bill of lading — the carrier’s contract and freight details.
- Customs entry / release — filed by the broker (PARS into Canada, PAPS into the U.S.) so the shipment can be processed before arrival.
- Any commodity-specific permits or certificates your broker identifies.
Carrier authority
A carrier needs U.S. operating authority to run cross-border. Point Zero Road Lines operates under USDOT 3983391 and MC 1492151, so our trucks are authorized for Canada–U.S. lanes — ask any carrier for their numbers before booking a cross-border load.
How to make your crossing smooth
- Get documents to your broker early — not the morning of pickup.
- Keep the invoice, packing list and BOL consistent down to the piece count.
- Tell your carrier the commodity, value and destination so the right crossing and timing are planned.
Frequently asked questions
What causes most border delays?
Paperwork that isn’t ready or doesn’t match — a customs entry not yet filed, or an invoice and packing list that disagree. When the entry is on record before arrival, trucks generally clear quickly.
Do I need a customs broker?
For commercial cross-border freight, yes — the broker files the entry and handles duties and classification. The carrier coordinates the crossing but does not replace the broker.
Have freight that fits this?
Talk to dispatch for a straight answer on equipment, timing and rates.