We've just implemented the surface option for int. orders weighing over 1 kg and up. For some reason Canada Post will ship surface-untracked over 2 kg, but nor air-untracked. Completely baffled by this, but whatever, I'm just furious and too upset to even figure them out anymore! The surface-untracked option carries a long transit time of 4 to 6 weeks, as it is going surface (via boat), but at least it helps for those that cannot/will not pay the shipping cost with the tracked and/or air services.
I have been racking my brain today and tonight looking for alternatives, and UPS and FedEx are even worse with int. shipping costs and then we run into the problem of customs and brokerage fees. The problem is the more it weighs the more it costs. CP is really the least expensive, believe it or not!
Anyway, I truly hope the surface option will help in regards to cost, but do keep in mind the transit time is long, at 4 to 6 weeks, and may be even longer.
P.S. And just to clarify about the extended leave. It has nothing to do with what happened today with shipping or the biz being in trouble. The long leave is because we are going to Australia to see my husband's family, which he has not seen in almost 8 years. Murray's dad was very ill this year, and we need to go see him. I hope this clarifies things. Thank you and have a good day.