Chris,
Check out this site for customs information on importing to Canada:
http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/sme/menu-e.htmlAlso, I've shipped goods both into and from Canada. If this a business to business transaction, there may be NO custom duties or taxes applicable. I believe both shipper and recepient must provide their federal tax ID numbers to be exempt. If it's going to a private consumer (non-commercial) then you'll probably pay duty. You can call the customs office for Canada to confirm.
Automated Customs Information Service (ACIS) 1-800-461-9999
Also, if you plan to use FEDEX or UPS as a shipper, they can help with all the paperwork and probably answer your questions. FedEx helped me alot. They'll even pay the duty for you and in turn bill you later if duty is required.
As far as removing the dvd's and artwork from the cases, all this will do is slightly lower your shipping costs. The customs duties are based on the classification of the item being shipped and the value placed on it. Weight wouldn't be an issue here.
Hope this helps,
Paul J
Media Wave