Question for Canadian members

Here's one for our Canadian members. I occasionally send things to or purchase from Canada. For some reason service seems VERY slow. I can send or receive from Japan or UK faster than to or from Canada. I live in Minnesota so Canada is right up there. I even visit (Summer only mind you). 8^) Is it Canada Post, USPS or both? Any explanation would be appreciated.
BTW: I avoid FedEx and UPS to Canada whenever possible because of "fees".