How Canadian E-Commerce Brands Can Sell in the USA Without a US Entity

If you're a Canadian e-commerce business looking to break into the U.S. market, you may be asking:

"Do I need to set up a U.S. company to sell and ship into the United States?"

The answer is: No. Thanks to the Non-Resident Importer (NRI) program, you can ship to U.S. customers or fulfillment centers without setting up a U.S. legal entity.

✅ What Is a Non-Resident Importer (NRI)?

An NRI is a foreign-based business (like yours) that becomes the Importer of Record for goods entering the U.S. This allows you to manage customs, duties, and compliance while remaining fully Canadian.

📦 What You Need to Import into the U.S.

• U.S. Customs Broker: Handles customs clearance and filings
• EIN (Employer Identification Number): Obtainable via IRS Form SS-4—even as a foreign entity
• Customs Bond: Required for imports (single entry or continuous)
• Proper Documentation: Including commercial invoices, HS codes, and country of origin
• Regulatory Compliance: FDA, CPSC, and accurate labeling requirements

💡 Why This Strategy Works

• No need to register a U.S. business
• Full access to Amazon FBA, Walmart, TikTok Shop, and other marketplaces
• Faster and cheaper delivery to U.S. customers
• Direct control over your U.S. logistics operations

🔥 Pro Tip: Save with Section 321

With Section 321, shipments under $800 USD per customer per day can enter the U.S. duty-free. At 247 Fulfillment, we help you capitalize on this exemption to lower costs and boost profits.

🚀 247 Fulfillment Makes It Easy

We're a cross-border 3PL built specifically for Canadian e-commerce. With warehouses on both sides of the border, we offer:

• Complete NRI setup and compliance management
• Inventory storage in Canada and the USA
• Fast, affordable shipping with domestic-level speeds
• Expert support on all customs and duties

Or explore real-world results in our Client Case Studies.

Start Shipping to the U.S. Without a Legal Entity

Don’t let borders limit your business growth. With the NRI strategy and the logistics experts at 247 Fulfillment, you can unlock U.S. revenue with zero setup stress.