Canada Post calculates the emissions associated with each parcel based on the distance it travels and the mode of transportation. We estimate the distance of each shipment using real-distance data, or average distances when the actual figure is not available.

Our methodology accounts for the distance in each “leg” (intermediate journeys between facilities) as well as the type of transportation used, such as air or ground (truck or rail) service. It also accounts for the parcel’s weight.

For shipments within Canada, our calculations include emissions up to the final delivery of the parcel. For shipments to addresses outside Canada, the calculations include emissions up to the destination airport or central drop-off facility.

Emissions from non-transport activities, like energy consumption in our buildings, are not included in the calculation.

Canada Post’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions calculation methodology was validated by UL solutions, a global validation body. UL determined our emissions calculations were properly prepared and based on reasonable assumptions.

Faster delivery services like Priority™ and Xpresspost™ are more likely to travel by air, depending on their destination. Airplanes are one of the most energy-intensive ways to transport goods, and therefore produce more emissions. Regular Parcel™ and Expedited Parcel™ items are more likely to travel by truck or rail, which emit fewer emissions than air transport.

Shipping options identified as “most fuel-efficient service” means the least-emitting option, based on our methodology and calculation. The fuel consumption and GHG emissions associated with shipping a parcel are calculated using the travel distance, parcel weight and mode of transportation. Faster services are more likely to use air transport, which emits more GHG emissions than ground services.

Canada Post’s Find a rate tool displays carbon emissions for each parcel delivery service. Faster and next-day delivery services like Priority™ and Xpresspost™ are more likely to travel by air, which emits more greenhouse gasses than ground services like Regular Parcel™ and Expedited Parcel™.

Using the Find a rate tool, you can compare different shipping services and choose lower-emitting options based on your needs and preferences.

Canada Post is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. See our corporate sustainability page to learn more about our plan and how we’re helping to deliver a sustainable future.