top of page

5 Min Read

How to Mail a Letter in Canada

By John Davis June 7th 2024

How to Mail a Letter in Canada image of a DHL Express letter going to Canada

The 4 Stages of Shipping from Canada

Discover the Essentials of Shipping: Finding a Courier, Locating a Shipping Point, Filling Out Your Information, and the Final Step—Pay and Ship

Step 1: Compare Couriers

Comparing rates online is crucial to ensure you get the best rate for your envelope. Here are some top options to consider.

DHL: Known for reliable international and domestic shipping services.

DHL Express: Specializes in fast, time-sensitive deliveries worldwide.

FedEx: Offers various shipping options, including overnight for shipments in North America.

UPS: Provides a range of domestic and international shipping solutions.

Canada Post: A cost-effective option for domestic shipments within Canada.

Step 2: Prepare Information

What to Prepare?

Your Info

Recipient Info

Full Name

Address & Postal Code

Contact Information

Package Dimensions

Optional

Optional

Package Value

Optional

Optional

Step 3: Find a Location

Once you have chosen your courier, the next step is to locate a convenient service point location Here’s how you can find a suitable location:

  • Canada Post Offices - They are widely available throughout Canada. 

  • FedEx Stores - FedEx offers multiple shipping locations, including standalone stores and drop boxes. 

  • UPS Access Points and Customer Centers - UPS Access Points are convenient local shops where you can ship.

  • Purolator Shipping Centers and Drop Boxes - Purolator provides several drop-off points for sending packages

Stage 4: Pay and Ship

​Complete the shipping process by finalizing your payment and dispatching your parcel. Here's a quick rundown:

  • Confirm Details: Verify all shipping information.

  • Payment: Pay using an accepted method (credit card, debit, or cash).

  • Receive Tracking: Obtain a receipt and tracking number to follow your package's journey.

  • Send Off: Your package is now ready to be shipped to its destination.

Accepted Payment Methods at our
DHL Express Locations

VISA Credit Card

MasterCard Credit Card

American Express Credit Card

Discover Credit Card

Cash (certain locations)

Bonus Tip 

Make sure to take a picture of your shipment label. 

It contains your Waybill number which can be used to track your parcel shipment.

Once you have your waybill number go to DHL Express Tracking to make sure your shipment arrives on time

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I mail a letter in Canada?

To properly mail a letter:

  1. Prepare the Envelope: Write the recipient's address in the center and your return address in the top left corner.

  2. Add Postage: Affix the correct postage stamp in the top right corner.

  3. Insert the Letter: Place your letter inside the envelope and seal it securely.

  4. Drop Off: Take the letter to a postal service location or drop it in a mailbox.

For important or urgent mail, consider using a courier service like DHL Express for additional security and tracking.

How do you properly mail a letter?

To properly mail a letter:

  1. Prepare the Envelope: Write the recipient's address in the center and your return address in the top left corner.

  2. Add Postage: Affix the correct postage stamp in the top right corner.

  3. Insert the Letter: Place your letter inside the envelope and seal it securely.

  4. Drop Off: Take the letter to a postal service location or drop it in a mailbox.

For important or urgent mail, consider using a courier service like DHL Express for additional security and tracking.

What happens to DHL package and I'm not home?

If you are not home when a DHL package is delivered, DHL will typically:

  1. Leave a Notification: They will leave a card with instructions on how to arrange a redelivery or where to pick up the package.

  2. Attempt Redelivery: They may try to deliver the package again on the next business day.

  3. Drop Off at a Service Point: The package might be taken to a nearby DHL service point or partner location for you to collect at your convenience.

Does DHL need to inspect packages?

Yes, DHL may inspect packages as part of their security and customs procedures. This ensures compliance with international shipping regulations and helps prevent the transport of prohibited items. Inspections can be conducted randomly or if there is a specific reason to check the contents of a package.


Does DHL need to inspect packages?

To write and send a letter to Canada using DHL Express:

  1. Prepare the Envelope: Write the recipient’s address in the center and your return address in the top left corner.

  2. Prepare Information: Gather the recipient's details and your contact information.

  3. Visit DHL Express: Go to a DHL service point with your prepared envelope.

  4. DHL Express Service: Provide the details to the staff; they will print the shipping label and assist with the customs form if needed.

  5. Pay and Ship: Complete the payment process and hand over your letter for shipping.

bottom of page