Cross-border reefer, overview
Moving reefer freight between Canada and the US means working through a stack of regulations, documents, and border procedures. This guide walks through what you need.
Who regulates what
Canadian side
- CFIA: Canadian Food Inspection Agency
- CBSA: Canada Border Services Agency
- Transport Canada: vehicle and driver standards
US side
- FDA: Food and Drug Administration
- CBP: Customs and Border Protection
- FMCSA: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
The paperwork
- Commercial invoice: goods, value, country of origin
- Bill of lading: the contract between shipper and carrier
- PARS/PAPS numbers: pre-arrival processing for Canadian and US customs
- Phytosanitary certificates: required for certain produce
- FDA Prior Notice: required for food going into the US
Trusted Trader Programs
FAST (Free and Secure Trade)
Drivers with a FAST card get expedited processing at the border, which cuts wait times by a lot.
PIP (Partners in Protection)
A Canadian program that shows customs you've met their security requirements as a trusted trader.
Temperature compliance at the border
Border inspections can include a temperature check. Make sure your:
- Temperature records are easy to pull up
- Trailer holds set temperature while you're waiting at the crossing
- Paperwork shows an unbroken cold chain
Tips for a smooth crossing
- Have the paperwork ready well before the truck reaches the border
- Use FAST-approved drivers when you can
- Cross at off-peak times if your schedule allows
- Pre-clear through PARS/PAPS
- For complex loads, use a broker who has done this before
Wrapping up
Cross-border reefer doesn't have to be painful. Prep the paperwork, pick a carrier who has crossed before, and your temperature-sensitive product gets through without drama.
*Note: This article is for reference only. Valley Fresh Express currently runs inside British Columbia on the Vancouver-Okanagan corridor. For cross-border work, talk to a carrier that specializes in it.*