How to send a letter or parcel from Calgary?

Sending mail or parcels from Canada to other provinces or abroad may seem complicated, but with this detailed guide, you will easily understand all the steps of the process. Below is a complete step-by-step guide, useful tips, possible delivery options, and recommendations for avoiding the most common mistakes.

Main steps of the process

  • Preparing the contents (letter or parcel)

  • Choosing packaging materials

  • Packaging and labeling

  • Determining the delivery method and rates

  • Submitting the shipment at the post office or by courier

  • Tracking the status and receiving confirmation

1. Preparing the contents

1.1. What you can and cannot include

  • Letters: documents, greeting cards, flat rolled materials.

  • Parcels: goods (except prohibited items), gifts, clothing, small electronic devices.

  • Prohibited items: flammable and explosive substances, liquids, hazardous chemicals, unauthorized medications, animal products without a certificate.

1.2. Packaging

  • A paper envelope is sufficient for letters.
  • For parcels:
  • Use a sturdy cardboard box or plastic parcel bag.
  • Place protective materials (bubble wrap, paper pads) inside.
  • Avoid “empty” spaces so that the contents do not move around.

2. Selection of packaging materials

Envelopes:

  • Standard paper (letter envelope).
  • Plastic waterproof (padded envelope).

Boxes and parcels:

  • Small (up to 30×30×10 cm).
  • Medium (up to 60×45×45 cm).
  • Large, if necessary.

Spare materials:

  • Packing tape.
  • Film for securing.
  • Labels with markings.

3. Formatting and labeling

3.1. Filling in the address

The address consists of two blocks:

Return address

  • Last name and first name
  • Street, house/apartment number
  • City, province, postal code
  • Country (Canada)

Destination address

  • As above, with the destination country indicated

Example: Ivanenko Irina 123 45 Ave SW, Apt 101 Calgary, AB T2P 0C1 Canada

John Smith 789 Elm St New York, NY 10001 USA

3.2. Filling out the customs declaration (for international shipments)

  • The customs form can be obtained at the post office or completed online (Canada Post).
  • CN22/CN23 declaration with a list of items included and their value.
  • Indicate the exact value to avoid delays or penalties.

4. Selecting the delivery method and rates

4.1. Canada Post (national operator)

  • Lettermail (letters within Canada) – economy mail, 2–9 business days.

  • Regular Parcel (parcels within Canada) – 2–9 business days.

  • Xpresspost (priority shipments) – 1–3 days, with tracking.

  • Priority™ Worldwide (international) – 2–5 days, delivery guarantee, insurance.

  • International Parcel – Air/Surface – air: 6–10 days, surface: up to 2–3 months.

4.2. Private couriers (UPS, FedEx, DHL)

  • Higher rates, but faster and more convenient.
  • Door-to-door service, insurance, flexible tracking options.
  • Ideal for commercial or urgent shipments.

5. Submitting a shipment

5.1. Through a post office

  • Go to the nearest Canada Post.
  • Hand over your prepared shipment.
  • Pay for the service.
  • Receive a receipt with a tracking number.

5.2. Order a courier

  • Order online or by phone.
  • The courier will pick up the parcel at the address.
  • Pay online or upon delivery.
  • Receive a tracking number.

6. Tracking and delivery confirmation

  • Online tracking is available for priority and international shipments.
  • Enter the tracking number on the Canada Post or courier website.
  • You can enable SMS or email notifications.

Useful tips and precautions

  • Insurance: Take out additional insurance for valuable or fragile items.

  • Rates and sizes: Check the dimensions and weight—additional charges apply for oversized or overweight packages.

  • Discounts: sign up for Canada Post to receive discounts.

  • Security: do not include private information about the contents on the packaging.

  • Time: take holidays and peak periods into account.

Conclusion

Sending letters and parcels from Calgary is a simple process with a clear plan. The most important thing is to pack correctly, fill out the forms, choose a delivery method, and track the status. Following these recommendations will ensure timely and safe delivery.