Any shipment with a known value of over $1000 (Canadian or U.S. dollars) per kilogram is considered a valuable shipment, regardless of the commodity. In addition, the following commodities are always considered valuable shipments:

• Gems
• Gold
• Artwork
• Silver
• Pearls
• Furs/pelts
• Jewellery
• Narcotics and controlled drugs
• Watches
• Tabacco

Negotiable paper including:

• Money or currency notes
• Stocks and bonds
• Traveller’s cheques

Classes of Valuable Goods Cargo

When a shipment meets the definition of valuable cargo, handling requirements will be determined by its class; classes represent the known value of the shipment.

Class 1: $0 to $3,000

• Minimum package size: 30 x 30 x 30 cm (12" x 12" x 12")
• Value handling fee
• Valuation charges

Class 2: $3,001 to $10,000
Same as Class 1, with these extra requirements:

• Man-to-man handling
• Lock-up service provided by Canadian North Cargo

Class 3: $10,001 to $25,000
Same as Class 2, with these extra requirements:

• Advance arrangements must be made with Canadian North Cargo
• If shipment is on Canadian North Cargo's premises for more than three (3) hours, a guard service will be required at the customer's expense.
• Shipments must be tendered no later than ninety (90) minutes before scheduled Canadian North flight departure.

Class 4: $25,001 to $200,000
Same as Class 3, with these extra requirements:

• Armed guard required at customer's expense
• Four to 72 hour advance notice
• Full security measures in place

Class 5: $200,001 & over
Same as Class 4

Hints on Safe Packaging

• Declare the correct value of the shipment. The declared value for air transport must not be less than the declared value for Customs, Insurance value or the Invoice amount.
• Help us protect your shipment by NOT indicating on the outer packaging that valuable items are contained within.
• Take extra care to properly package your shipment. Use inner cushioning material to protect valuables against cracks or breaks and to prevent movement within the package. Ensure outer packaging is strong and durable enough to prevent accidental opening during normal handling.

Air Waybill Preparation

It is essential that you use the correct air waybill for the type of service and destination you require. As well, all information shown on the air waybill must be accurate in every detail, including:

• Guaranteed Service
• Shipper's name, telephone number (or point of contact), address
• Consignee's name, telephone number (or point of contact), address
• Insurance amount (optional)
• Declared value for air transport (must not be less than the value for Customs or Invoice amount)
• Value for Customs (if shipping goods internationally), when required
• Indicate whether the shipment is prepaid or collect
• Exact description or name of commodity: "Wearing Apparel" or "Printed Matter" are not acceptable descriptions
• Exact weight of shipment. This can be entered at the cargo terminal on delivery to Canadian North Cargo
• Your Canadian North Cargo account number
• For information on Valuation Charges & Liability, and Insurance, please visit the Cargo: Insurance page.

For further information on special cargo contact your local Canadian North Cargo office.

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