Yes, you can ask.
If he agrees, you may still be required to pay duty, sales tax and the Canada Post service charge of $9.95 when you pick up your parcel.
If the purchase is over $100, the Global Shipping Program tends to be cheaper.
If the purchase is under $100, having the seller ship by USPS First Class International may be cheaper, especially if CBSA and CP do not assess the duty, sales tax and service fee, which is most of the time. Tell the seller that USPS First Class International now includes Delivery Confirmation to Canada.
He may not agree. His choice, not yours.
