Sending ceramic altar items, tea sets or Buddha statues from Vietnam to Canada is always a headache. Ceramics chip and crack easily under the strong knocks of air transport. Even a tiny crack can ruin a sacred statue or a precious set of altar ware. This article explains the right way to pack them in a foam box using spray foam, and how to declare them to customs so they reach the recipient in Canada intact.
Why ceramics often break on the way to Canada, and how to prevent it
Many people think a few layers of bubble wrap in a carton is enough. In reality, your parcel goes on a long journey from the warehouse in Vietnam, onto the plane, through Canadian customs and then to the door. Along the way, boxes are stacked on top of each other and constantly shaken.
If there is any space inside the box, the ceramics will move, hit the sides or each other, and crack. For maximum protection, the core principle is to eliminate all empty space and hold the item in place with a highly elastic material.
How to pack ceramics with spray foam
For Buddha statues and heavy ceramic altar items, or pieces with many protruding details, packing them in a foam box with spray foam (expanding moulded foam) is the safest method available today.
Step 1: Wrap to protect the surface
- Wrap the statue or ceramic item tightly in 2 to 3 layers of PE plastic film to avoid scratching the glaze.
- For protruding parts such as ears, fingers or teapot spouts, wrap them separately in several layers of soft paper or bubble wrap before wrapping the whole item.
Step 2: Prepare a foam box and a plastic liner
- Choose a foam box at least 10 cm larger than the item on every side.
- Place a large plastic bag inside the foam box.
Step 3: Spray a foam base
- Use a professional spray foam (self-hardening expanding foam) to spray a layer about 5–7 cm thick into the bottom of the bag in the box.
- Wait a few seconds for it to expand, then place the wrapped item on top of this layer. Press gently so the foam moulds to the base of the item.
Step 4: Fill in around the item with foam
- Keep spraying foam into the gaps around and above the item until the expanding foam fills the whole box.
- When dry, the foam becomes moderately firm and hugs the item like a custom mould, preventing any movement at all.
Step 5: Close the lid and put it in an outer carton
- Wait for the foam to dry completely (usually 15–30 minutes), then trim any foam sticking up above the rim of the box.
- Put the lid on the foam box and tape all the edges.
- Place the whole foam box in a sturdy outer carton for extra crush resistance and so the shipping label is easy to apply.
Customs declarations for ceramics shipped to Canada
Ceramics, especially altar items and Buddha statues, need clear declarations so they aren’t held for long inspections at the Canadian border (CBSA).
- Description: On the declaration, write the item’s name in English. For example: “Ceramic Buddha Statue” or “Ceramic Teaset”. Don’t write a vague “gift” or “decorations”.
- Value: Declare the item’s value honestly. Declaring a value far below its real worth can make customs suspicious and ask for the purchase invoice.
- Religious and antique items: For used Buddha statues or altar items, or those of antique value, make sure they are not on Vietnam’s list of antiquities banned from export.
When you ship with Soleil Transportation, our price on the Vietnam–Canada route includes import duties, so you don’t have to worry about annoying tax charges when the goods arrive.
Reliable shipping to Canada with Soleil Transportation
If you don’t have spray foam or are worried about packing it yourself, Soleil Transportation can help. We offer an all-in-one air shipping service from Vietnam to Canada in just 7–14 days (7–12 business days on average).
- Great rates: Two-way Vietnam–Canada air shipping with door delivery from just $16/kg. For small parcels and gifts sent by ePacket, prices start at just $8.50 CAD per parcel.
- Professional packing: Basic packing in a strong carton is included. For fragile ceramics, we can advise on wooden crating or palletising (surcharge applies) for complete safety.
- Tracking: Easily track your order online with your tracking number, with updates by email, SMS or Zalo.
Before shipping precious ceramics to Canada, take photos with the size and weight of the item for the most accurate packing advice. Call us on +1 888-998-5199 or email info@soleiltransportation.com for a quick quote.
