The recent escalation of the Canada Post strike may affect the sales of film and cameras both in Canada and abroad. If you've ever shipped items between Canada and the US, you might be aware of the numerous challenges to trade between the two countries — and things just got more complicated. Shipping to and from Canada using EMS (the standard and often most affordable and reliable international shipping option utilized by services like USPS, Royal Mail, and Australia Post) faced disruptions last Thursday when Canada Post intensified its strike from limited service to a complete shutdown.
Canadians seeking vintage camera equipment or film may encounter higher costs and will have to rely on services like FedEx. For those outside Canada, you are likely unaffected unless purchasing from retailers such as Camera Traders, Downtown Camera, or online platforms like eBay and Etsy. However, if you are selling prints, zines, or other items to Canada, you won't be able to ship via EMS; your package will be held up if you attempt that route.
FilmBase (filmbase.etsy.com), an Etsy shop I operate from Canada, will continue to ship film and film cameras to US and Canadian addresses without charge and without interruption, using a private courier service. US customers will find that all prices now encompass tariffs, alleviating any concerns on that front.
The strike has been ongoing for several months, primarily manifesting as service limitations. However, after the Canadian government decided to terminate home deliveries, resulting in the loss of thousands of jobs and a level of service typically expected, the union initiated a walkout. This follows the original wage dispute that began nearly a year ago.
If you've ever sent anything from Canada to the US (or vice versa), you might be familiar with the numerous new obstacles to trade between our two nations — and they have just intensified. #editorial.