Frequently Asked Questions
How can I obtain a quote to compare your shipping rates with my current shipping company?
Please go to the request a freight quote form and complete an immediate online rate request or, if you prefer, contact a CSA transportation representative by phone. In either case, a dedicated freight account manager will work to help ensure our service proposal meets your needs. When making your request please indicate your shipping requirements in detail: Required delivery dates, volumes, linear ft.( if not on a standard skid) repeat shipment opportunities, fragile goods, stackable/non-stackable etc. this way our pricing specialists will be able to present the most competitive rates possible.
Your freight quote looks good, how do I get started shipping?
If you approve the quote please let us know by email or phone. CSA accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express while we work to set up credit terms with your company. The credit application process generally takes a few days and your rush shipment is best paid by credit card. In this case we will charge your card for the full amount just prior to final delivery of your freight.
How do I track a shipment?
For up-to-date shipment tracking and tracing between Canada and the US, and to track and trace shipments within Canada, CSA offers Online Tracking. There are two versions of this system; a quick tracking tool able to search the status of a shipment using just a tracking number, and and full-featured online tracking portal for CSA customers which includes the ability to see and print off POD's and Bills of Lading.
At this time US to US shipment tracking is unavailable but will be in the near future. In the meantime please call or email one of our 10 distribution centres to track your US to US shipments. CSA representatives are standing by for any inquiries you may have and if you call during regular business hours you will have a live person answer the call every time!
What are CSA's transit times?
As a general guideline CSA's freight transit times can be calculated in the following way:
Shipments travelling up to 500mi./800km: Approximately 1-2 days.
Shipments travelling between 500mi./800km and 1500mi./2400km: Approximately 3-4 days.
Shipments travelling more than 1500mi./2400km: Approximately 5-6 days.
We do our best to ensure your freight delivers when requested. Overnight service is difficult to accommodate due to road conditions, traffic, weather and operator drive time legislation-just a few of the variables that may increase or decrease transit time estimations.
You can receive up to date shipment status details by contacting one of our 10 shipping centres.
Does CSA provide customs brokerage services for shipping between Canada and the USA?
As an expert in cross border freight shipments CSA has customs facilitators on staff that help guide you through the entire process. We do not, however provide customs brokerage services instead our staff work closely with customs brokers to facilitate cross border freight movements. If you are in need of a customs broker we can recommend a company best suited to your shipping needs.
You ship anywhere in Canada and the United States, does this include Hawaii and Alaska?
Yes, freight transit to & from these states would be transported by a qualified CSA network partner. Shipments moved though our partner network are overseen by a CSA logistics coordinator, and from a customer’s standpoint, are seamless with our service.
My freight is best moved by flatbed trailer, do you offer this service?
Yes, we can arrange to ship your freight by flat deck truck anywhere in Canada and the United States.
I haven’t shipped with a trucking company before, I normally ship with courier/parcel companies but my shipments are getting heavier, how do I get started?
First off - congratulations on your increased business!
When shipping one standard pallet of goods or more an LTL shipping company is a great solution.
Whether you need to ship a single standard pallet (up to 1650lbs) or entire full truckloads, all that is required to start shipping freight immediately is a quick call or email to one of our shipping terminal locations.
A representative can help set up your account and guide you though the application for credit process, (payment terms net30). If you would rather skip the credit approval process we also accept Visa, MasterCard or American Express.
If you need to move your freight fast, and are a first time customer, a credit card pre-authorization is the fastest method to get shipping while your application for credit is pending.
What methods of payment do you accept?
Payment terms are available on approval of your shipping account credit request. We also accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Do you provide insurance coverage for my shipments?
CSA’s standard Liability Insurance coverage is limited to $2.00/lb based on the weight of the missing or damaged product; included in your base freight rate. In some cases this will not adequately cover the cost of your goods. We would encourage you to check with your own insurance provider as many business policies will cover goods in transit.
For a reasonable price, CSA offers Cargo Insurance coverage which will insure your goods for their full replacement value. For more information please visit the following web page on insurance coverage: http://csatransportation.com/resources/insuring-your-freight.
Who should I contact for account inquires re: accounts payable, accounts receivable, invoice, payment, compte, paie etc?
CSA’s terms are full payment within 30 days of your invoice date. Please reference your shipment invoice number and remit payment to:
CSA Transportation
355 Horner Avenue
Toronto, ON M8W 1Z7
For inquiries on your invoice or if you are paying by credit card please call your local CSA shipping service centre
For all other accounting inquiries: Accounts Receivable etc. please contact CSA's Corporate Office
