Customs Clearance
Dealing with Customs Brokerage process can be a complex one. Our team of customs brokers has been helping companies ensure their shipments comply with customs procedures and protocol for many years. They ensure you are up to date with constantly changing regulations, including compliance issues, trade agreements and reporting requirements. We are thinking ahead with our expertise & licensed in-house consultants. Contact us for a consultation or free sample review of your documentation.
Your advantages at a Glance:
- Reliable advise on customs procedures & compliance issues
- In-house licensed consultants with years of experience
- No-Obligation sample review of your documentation
Frequently Asked Questions AboutCustoms Brokerage
What documentation do I need from the vendor or exporter of goods?
Vendors or exporters should provide you with a sales receipt or invoice that describes the goods in detail and shows the selling price. They can also provide you with a certificate of origin to qualify the goods for preferential duty rates, such as those under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), or the Canada – Chile Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA).
Do I need a customs broker to prepare documents for the CBSA?
You may want to have a licensed customs broker prepare your documents to help get your goods released, prepare the necessary documentation, and pay duties on your behalf. Customs brokers may also represent you if the CBSA selects your shipment for a documentation review after payment.
Do other government departments and agencies have import or export requirements?
Some goods are subject to other government department and agency requirements and may require permits, certificates, and examinations. The CBSA administers the import and export portions of their legislation on behalf of these departments and agencies.
What duties will I have to pay? Am I responsible for the GST/HST?
Unless exempt, all commercial goods entering Canada are subject to customs duty and the goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST). Depending on the goods or their value, other charges or taxes may apply including excise duty on items, such as tobacco products, and excise tax on items, such as gasoline, diesel fuel and air conditioners for motor vehicles. The CBSA imposes countervailing duties on imported goods that cause injury to Canadian industry through subsidies in the country of origin. Anti-dumping duties may also be assessed on goods imported into Canada at prices less than their selling price in the country of origin.
What happens if I do not comply with the requirements of Customs legislation?
The Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS) is a civil penalty regime that will secure compliance with Customs legislation through the application of monetary penalties. It came into force in fall 2002. AMPS largely replaces the use of seizure and forfeiture provisions for technical infractions. Seizure and ascertained forfeiture will only be used for the most serious offences. AMPS applies to contraventions of the Customs Act, Customs Tariff and both of their regulations, as well as contraventions of the terms and conditions of licensing agreements and undertakings. AMPS will impose monetary penalties in proportion to the type, frequency, and severity of the infraction. Most penalties are graduated and will take the compliance history of the client into consideration. AMPS penalties are corrective rather than punitive. AMPS will not affect businesses that continue to comply with Customs requirements and regulations.
