Although non-essential services in Ontario and Quebec are shutting down, there have been no orders prohibiting the shipment of goods between the US and Canada. According to Amy Magnus, National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America President and Deringer’s Director of Compliance and Customs Affairs, “At this time, NCBFAA has not received any notifications from the US government indicating that the flow of goods across the border is interrupted.”
To prevent the further spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), the provinces of Quebec and Ontario announced the shutdown of all non-essential businesses. The determination of an essential business varies by province, but in many cases includes the raw materials necessary to support priority and essential services, as well as businesses engaged in transportation, government, construction, health services, agriculture, some manufacturing, and others.
- Government of Ontario: List of essential workplaces
- Government of Quebec: Minimization of non-priority services and activities
Ontario’s shutdown was set for noon today and is expected to last 14 days; Quebec’s closures will begin at midnight and last through April 13th. Other provinces have announced measures against the spread of COVID-19 as well, including the shutdown of borders to non-residents and non-essential travel, while remaining open to all commercial cargo.
Based on guidance provided by the US Department of Homeland Security, the US/Canada border is open for all commercial goods crossing the border, and both countries consider truckers and Customs brokers to be essential business activities.
If you have questions about a specific shipment, please contact the Deringer service center managing your account.
