Canada Post Strike Update 2025 October: Shipping Impact from Japan
In late September 2025, Canadian postal services entered a major disruption. On September 25, 2025, Canada Post workers began a nationwide strike, causing delays and interruptions across the country.
Following this development, Japan Post officially announced the suspension of all shipments to Canada starting September 29, 2025. This suspension covers international mail, small packets, EMS, and registered parcels sent from Japan to Canada.
The suspension will remain in place until the strike is resolved, creating challenges for businesses and customers relying on cross-border deliveries.
Note：
This news update applies only to customers residing in Canada.
Impact on Shipments to Canada
For Canadian customers purchasing goods from Japan—such as toys, collectibles, and other specialty items—this strike means delays in receiving packages. Many online retailers and e-commerce sellers in Japan, including Shopify and eBay stores, are now unable to fulfill Canada-bound orders through Japan Post.
Alternative private carriers like FedEx, UPS, or DHL may still be available, but they often come with higher shipping costs compared to Japan Post services.
What Canadian Customers Should Know
・Canada Post Strike Start Date: September 25, 2025
・Japan Post Suspension Effective Date: September 29, 2025
・Affected Services: EMS, Registered Mail, Air Mail, Small Packets, Surface Mail
・Current Status (October 2025): No Japan Post shipments to Canada until further notice
As of October 4th, I contacted Japan Post and they told me that they have completely stopped shipping packages to Canada.
Even if you send a package to Canada, there is a high chance that it will be returned, so it is best not to send a package now.
https://www.post.japanpost.jp/int/information/2025/0929_02.html
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I still order products from Japan during the strike?
A: Yes, orders can still be placed, but shipments via Japan Post to Canada are currently suspended. Retailers may offer to hold your order until services resume, or provide alternative shipping options through FedEx or DHL.
Q: How long will the suspension last?
A: The suspension will remain in effect until the Canada Post strike ends. No official end date has been announced yet.
By the way, last November's strike lasted about a month.
Therefore, this time too, it is possible that it will end within a month.
Most of our customers are waiting for Canada Post to resume operations.
Q: Are there any alternatives for shipping?
A: Private couriers such as FedEx, UPS, or DHL are possible options, but shipping fees are generally more expensive than Japan Post.
FedEx and DHL have high shipping costs, but customs duties may also be high upon receipt, so you need to consider this carefully.
Q: Will my package be delayed if it was shipped before September 29?
A: Parcels that were already in transit before the suspension may experience significant delays until Canada Post resumes operations.
