A Shipment Type, also known as a clearance type or release option, refers to the method by which goods transported by a highway carrier receive Customs' authorization to enter a country.

Typically, it is the responsibility of the importer or their agent (such as a customs broker) to choose the appropriate shipment type. With few exceptions, the carrier should not decide which shipment type to use but should rely on instructions provided by their client.

The most common shipment type for commercial goods entering Canada is PARS, which allows goods to receive CBSA clearance before arriving at the border. The equivalent for goods entering the U.S. is PAPS.